President’s Perspective


Dear Colleagues,

 

As we enter the 2024-2025 Bar Year, I am reminded of the profound legacy that the Cook County Bar Association (CCBA) has built over 110 years. From Lloyd G. Wheeler's groundbreaking admission to practice law in Illinois in 1869, our organization has been a beacon of advocacy, justice, and leadership in the greater Chicago community, the state of Illinois, and across the nation.

 

Our history is rich with the contributions of Black men and women who have shaped the law to better the lives of those in our community. Whether serving as advocates, judges, legal educators, or elected representatives, our members have consistently participated at every level of government and within the private sector to protect and defend the rights and well-being of all citizens, particularly Black citizens.

 

The CCBA stands as a vital institution today because of the dedication of its members—professionals like you who believe in the power of unity, the strength of justice, and the spirit of the law. Now more than ever, our community needs our collective voice to continue the work that has been entrusted to us.  We live in a time of profound social and legal challenges, where the fight for justice, equality, and fairness is as urgent as it has ever been. From the degradation of Black history, the defunding of diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives to ensuring we maintain the right to vote, the issues we face require the strength of a united legal community that stands firmly on the side of justice. 

 

We invite you to take part in this change by renew your membership with or joining the Cook County Bar Association. By doing so, you not only honor our shared history but also play a crucial role in the ongoing fight for justice. Membership offers valuable benefits, including:

 

- Networking Opportunities: Connect with a diverse network of legal experts and peers.

- Continuing Education: Stay ahead with cutting-edge CLE programs designed to enhance your practice.

- Advocacy: Be a part of a collective voice that influences the future of our legal system.

- Membership Benefits: Access exclusive resources, legal directories, discounts on seminars and events, and opportunities to serve on committees that influence policy.

 

Your membership dues fuel our mission to serve, educate, and advocate. By joining us, you're not just paying dues; you're investing in the future of law and justice. Justice does not exist in a silo. Only together can we create impactful change for our communities.

 

Act Now! Renew Your Membership or Join Today!

 

Visit  www.cookcountybar.org/annual-feesto become a member and make a difference. Together, let’s continue the legacy of excellence at the Cook County Bar Association.

 

Nicholas E. Cummings

110th President

Cook County Bar Association


CCBA President-Elect and Vice Presidents

Attorney Antonio C. Lee

President-Elect

Attorney LeDeidre S. Turner

Vice President of Operations

Attorney Mark A. Dunham

Vice President of Education and Information

 

Call To Action

The Cook County Bar Association is in the process of establishing committees and is seeking your input and expertise. Listed below are the 2024-2025 Committees that require your assistance. Should you be interested in serving as a member or wish to propose a new committee, please reach out to the Vice President of Operations, Attorney LeDeidre S. Turner, at ledeidre.turner@gmail.com, or to the Executive Director, Cordelia Brown, at cbrown@cookcountybar.org.

 

President Nicholas E. Cummings

"Stronger Together"

 

2024-2025 Committees That Need Your Help


Standing Committees/Sections

Annual Awards Banquet

Audit & Finance

Civil Rights and Advocacy

Communications

History

Holiday Party

Job Fair

Judicial Evaluations

LGBTQ

Membership

Mentor/Mentee

Young Lawyers Section


Special Committees

ABA Làsion

BLSA Liaison

By-Laws

Family Law

Judges Night

Law Day

Legislative

MLK Day of Service

Professional Development

Lawyers in the Community