E.K. McWilliams
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Nominators describe E.K. McWilliams as a compassionate and fierce legal advocate: a leader with a big heart and brain to match. As a successful and creative lawyer in the field of corporate investigations and criminal defense, E.K. is also a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist and dedicates hundreds of hours of pro bono work each year, including defending incarcerated individuals who seek to vindicate their constitutional rights. E.K. is committed to advancing diversity and inclusion values in the community. They truly exemplify the Jewish value of tikkun olam, repairing the world.
As an LGBTQ+ advocate, E.K. became the first "out" transgender lawyer at Jenner & Block. As an attorney at Jenner & Block, E.K. has for years mentored many young lawyers, serving as a role model by courageously breaking barriers, fostering a collaborative environment, and promoting the value and dignity of every person. It is no surprise that in 2020, E.K. was recognized nationally as a Best LGBT Lawyer under 40.
E.K.'s mission is to ensure that no one should have to face the antisemitism and homophobia they endured growing up in rural Wisconsin, and to lead by example with empathy, collegiality, and dedication to zealous advocacy.
AGE:
36
PRIMARY GIG:
Senior Associate Attorney, Investigations, Compliance, and Defense, Jenner & Block
ON THE SIDE:
Friend, mentor, bulldog parent (and aspiring kid parent)
RELATIONSHIP STATUS:
My wife Sheena and I are in our first year of marriage!
DESCRIBE YOURSELF IN 10 WORDS OR LESS:
If Rachel Maddow were a trans Jewish lawyer...
CELEBRITY DOPPELGANGER:
Matt Broderick as Ferris Bueller (if Ferris grew up and went corporate)
HOW YOU JEW IN CHICAGO:
By living and presenting as my authentic self--a genderqueer Jew--at work and in the community, and seeking humble opportunities to improve the lives of others.
IF TIME AND MONEY WERE LIMITLESS, I WOULD:
Adopt 100 English Bulldog rescues and also take on more pro bono cases.
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