Shepherd Law Says Farewell | 2005 – 2020

After 15 years of dedicated service in the legal profession, I’m closing the doors of Shepherd Law.

As a young attorney, I was drawn to the law by a desire to serve. Helping people navigate the legal system was my answer to some of life’s most profound questions: Why am I here? What is my purpose? How can I be of use?

In that pursuit, I’ve had the privilege of representing a wide range of people from diverse backgrounds—young and old, American and foreign, black, white and hispanic.

Despite their differences, they all shared one thing: their encounter with the court system marked a time of deep stress and vulnerability. For some, it was the darkest season of their lives.

I would like to believe that my strong work ethic, empathy and results-driven approach offered some relief in those moments. I know those cases shaped not just my career, but my understanding of resilience, dignity and the human spirit.

Of the many cases I have handled, two stand out: United States v. White and Harper v. Cook County.

In U.S. v. White I confronted the fragile line between order and free speech. This case highlighted a core principle of a free society: freedom means protecting speech that’s uncomfortable or misunderstood.  It reminded me that our democratic principles don’t just apply when they’re popular — they matter most when they’re not.

In Harper v. Cook County I rose to defend a different threatened liberty: the right to bear arms. That case taught me the importance of challenging laws that are both wrong and unconstitutional. It was a demanding exercise in creative litigation and pursuing truth in the face of resistance.

These two cases deepened my sense of the responsibility lawyers carry and the vigilance required to protect the rights that define a free people.

As I look back on my career, I’m reminded of the words in Ecclesiastes: “To everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.” For me, the season as a trial lawyer is drawing to a close. I’ve argued what mattered, stood for what I believed and now it’s time to apply the hard-earned wisdom in new ways.

If you’d like to stay in touch or share reflections of your own, I welcome you to reach out: shepherdlaw@gmail.com.

Thank you,

Chris Shepherd
Chicago, Illinois
2020