The Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism works to promote civility and inclusion in the legal profession, to ensure the equitable delivery of justice for the people of Illinois. In honor of Black History Month, the Commission on Professionalism is highlighting inspiring leaders of some of the state’s predominantly Black bar associations.
Through their work, these leaders are creating a more diverse profession in which all attorneys feel valued.
In this Q&A, our Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager Julia Roundtree Livingston spoke to Jerry King, a criminal defense trial attorney and Founder and Partner at King & Bondi, LLC, where he is committed to serving the underrepresented communities of Illinois.
King also serves as President of the Black Bar Association of Will County, which was founded in 2007 “To Seek Justice” in Will County.
What excites you about the next generation of Black lawyers?
One thing that gives me hope about the next generation of Black lawyers is the growth in representation. In the counties across Illinois where I have had the opportunity and privilege to practice, it is no longer uncommon to see Black attorneys.
Today, it is increasingly normal to see Black lawyers practicing in both civil and criminal courts and serving on the bench as judges. This visibility reflects meaningful progress and signals a more inclusive future for the legal profession.
How does your bar association support the communities you serve?
The Black Bar Association of Will County serves Joliet and the surrounding communities, and community engagement is central to our mission. We bridge the gap between the legal profession and the community through direct service and outreach.
In 2025, our bar association partnered with a local homeless shelter in Joliet, where members served lunch, answered legal questions, and provided guidance to individuals in need.
Additionally, our members volunteer with various community organizations to provide free and pro bono legal services, as well as referrals to critical resources. Mentorship is also a key component of our work, with many of our attorneys mentoring law students and young professionals interested in pursuing careers in law.
Who inspires you in the Black legal community?
The Honorable Judge Vincent Cornelius is a significant source of inspiration to me. As a native of Joliet, he was one of the first individuals I saw who demonstrated that it was possible to grow up in Joliet and build a successful legal career within the same community.
Learning about his accomplishments in the Illinois legal community helped shape my belief that I could return home after retiring from the Air Force and establish a meaningful legal practice. Since then, he has served as a mentor and a valuable source of guidance.
What is one project your bar association is currently working on that excites you?
One project I am particularly excited about involves several pending partnerships with local children’s organizations and other community groups that directly impact youth. Our goal is to establish a lasting presence in the local community so that residents can identify and connect with members of the Black Bar Association of Will County.
Through these efforts, we aim to inspire future careers in law, promote civic engagement, and strengthen the relationship between the legal profession and the communities we serve.
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