Karen Donnelly Law

09/01/2026

09/01/2026

Being a “pit bull” doesn’t always mean fighting. Sometimes it means knowing when not to.

As an attorney, I believe my job is to advocate aggressively for my clients—but advocacy does not mean fighting simply for the sake of fighting.

I rely on facts, evidence, the law, and strategy. Sometimes the facts are on our side, and I will fight relentlessly. Other times, the facts are what they are, and no amount of arguing, posturing, or creating unnecessary conflict is going to change the outcome.

There is a difference between being a strong advocate and being combative for the sake of appearances.

If you want an attorney who will turn every issue into a battle just so you can feel like someone is “fighting,” I may not be the attorney for you. And frankly, you should understand that you will be paying for that unnecessary fight—even when the end result is likely to be exactly the same.

My job is not to tell clients what they want to hear. My job is to tell them the truth, explain their options, assess the risks, and pursue the best possible outcome based on the facts and the law.

Sometimes the smartest lawyer in the room is the one who knows when to fight—and when fighting accomplishes nothing.

That isn’t being soft.

That’s being strategic.

08/26/2026

Today, I had a client make the incredibly difficult decision to take responsibility for her actions and accept a sentence to the Illinois Department of Corrections. I am so incredibly proud of her for taking accountability and making the decision to move forward. I know this isn’t an easy road, but I wish her nothing but strength, courage, and the very best as she begins this next chapter. ❤️

08/01/2026

Criminal Defense Q&A with Karen Donnelly

Question: “Can the alleged victim drop criminal charges?”

Answer: “One of the biggest misconceptions in criminal law is that the alleged victim decides whether charges go away. In Illinois, the prosecutor—not the victim—decides whether to proceed. As a former LaSalle County State’s Attorney, I know how those decisions are made. If you’ve been charged, don’t rely on myths or advice from social media. Get answers from someone who’s handled these cases from both sides.

Family Law and Criminal Defense Attorney

08/01/2026

One of the proudest moments in my career!