Our Professionalism Spotlight series highlights Illinois legal professionals who demonstrate the ideals of professionalism in their careers.
In this Professionalism Spotlight, we spoke to Letitia B. Wiggins of Wiggins Law, LLC in McLeansboro, Illinois. Her practice serves Southern Illinois, focusing on family law and general practice law. She is also a Guardian Ad Litem.
Previously, Letitia served as an Assistant State’s Attorney in Saline and St. Clair counties.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
I remind myself that we usually see people at the worst times in their lives. We are tasked with helping [clients] navigate a system they are not familiar with during an uncertain and stressful time.
I explain to my clients that this is a chapter, and that when they turn the final page on this chapter, life will be much different.
I have found that making sure clients understand each step of the process and their options relieves some of the tension and stress.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
We are the gatekeepers. As attorneys, we must ensure that there is candor with the court, that we strive for efficiency in our cases, and that we are doing what we can to see that justice is done.
Being upfront with our clients about cost, possible outcomes, and timelines ensures that they can make the most informed decisions for their case.
We always need to be mindful that this may be just another case to us, but this case is likely the most important thing in [our clients’] lives.
What is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
Setting (and keeping) healthy boundaries with their practice. Technology is great because we can work from anywhere, but that is also a burden.
Recognizing that you need time to recharge is the first step, setting a boundary is the second step, and keeping that boundary is the third step – and the hardest step for me.
I am very lucky to have great people working with me who help with all three steps!
What do you do for fun?
I am a founding member of the Women’s Leadership Council of Hamilton County. We do several projects focusing on literacy, community service, and mentoring in our area.
Recently, I joined a book club, which has been a lot of fun and has widened the variety of books I read.
I love spending time with my husband and two children. We stay busy with sports but make time for adventures in between seasons.
Our Professionalism Spotlight recognizes legal professionals throughout Illinois who are admired for their professionalism and civility. Check out more interviews here.
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