Elizabeth Wakeman's journey traces back to her upbringing in Inverness, Illinois. Her father, a distinguished World War II Army veteran, Harvard Law School graduate, and an esteemed Republican Cook County Circuit Court Judge for two decades, instilled in her a deep respect for government, business, and community service. Meanwhile, her mother, who served as Ted Kennedy's personal executive assistant during his senate campaign and throughout his tenure, balanced a remarkable career in real estate in Inverness.
From a young age, Elizabeth, or Liz, as she's commonly known, and her siblings were imbued with a strong work ethic, often tasked with chores ranging from pulling weeds to babysitting clients' children, ensuring top-notch service in their family's real estate endeavors.
This early exposure to service and diligence laid the foundation for Liz's future endeavors. After relocating to Lake in the Hills in McHenry County, Illinois in 1994 with her husband and son, Liz delved into a journey of continuous education and professional growth.
Her educational pursuits included a myriad of continuing education courses, encompassing diverse areas such as mediation, collaborative law, and legal topics like brewery and distillery law. Liz's commitment to ongoing learning reflects her dedication to providing comprehensive and informed service to her clients.
Throughout her career, Liz has not only honed her legal skills but also shared her knowledge through seminars and instructional roles. From guiding divorce recovery groups to educating medical practitioners on legal nuances, Liz has been a prominent figure in legal education and advocacy.
Liz's professional trajectory began at Unocal 76, where she gained insights into accounting and marketing, excelling in regional sales while navigating the intricacies of insurance defense litigation at Williams & Montgomery in Chicago. Her journey led her through various firms, each enriching her experience in insurance defense, medical malpractice, and personal injury law.
Her tenure at O'Hagan, Smith & Amundsen/SmithAmundsen in the Woodstock office saw her handling complex insurance defense claims while also expanding her practice into family law and plaintiff representation. Notably, Liz secured significant victories in landmark cases, shaping legal precedents and championing her clients' rights.
Beyond her legal career, Liz is deeply engaged in her community, volunteering her time across a spectrum of organizations and initiatives. From serving as a mediator for small claims cases to her involvement in numerous professional and civic organizations, Liz's commitment to service is evident in every facet of her life.
Today, as a respected figure in the legal community, Liz continues to exemplify the values instilled in her upbringing—integrity, diligence, and a steadfast commitment to serving others. Whether in the courtroom, the boardroom, or the community, Liz stands as a beacon of professionalism and service, leaving an indelible mark on all she touches.
