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. | 1996

  • Florida State University
    M.S. | 1987

  • Delta 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