Rena A. Ballard began her 25+ year legal career at the Office of the Cook County State’s Attorney, where she prosecuted more than 200 bench trials and multiple jury trials involving involuntary commitment and medication of psychiatric patients. Rena’s past litigation practice includes handling contested guardianships, contested estate administration matters, involuntary nursing home discharge cases, and personal injury. Rena also has previous experience as a Master’s level social services coordinator, a role which facilitates her assistance to seniors needing legal services. Currently, she focuses on Medicaid planning, guardianships, and special needs planning.
Education
DePaul University College of Law
J.D. | 1996Florida State University
M.S. | 1987Delta State University
B.M. | 1983
Graduated with four-year honors; Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society
Professional Associations + Memberships
Illinois State Bar Association | Member, Elder Law Section
Pro Bono Activities
Chicago Volunteer Legal Services | Volunteer Attorney
Barrington Area Council on Aging | Volunteer
Podcasts + Webinars
“Proactive Longevity Planning” Webinar
Featured Speaker | 2022
Speaking Engagements
Five Important Legal Documents for Estate Planning
Financial Exploitation of Seniors-Remedies
Becoming the Decision-Maker for a Senior
Reporting Elder Abuse
Assessing Legal Capacity