J. Witherspoon, a native of Chicago’s South Side, grew up in the Robert Taylor Projects, where she witnessed the challenges and transformative potential of the justice system. This early exposure inspired her to pursue a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and later earn her Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School (now UIC) in Chicago. Additionally, she holds certifications as an Equal Employment Opportunity Counselor, Crisis Intervention Specialist, EEOC Investigator, and Certified Mediator. Her unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and community betterment continues to shape her impactful career.

Over the past 25 years, she has dedicated her career to public service, holding roles that leverage her deep understanding of the judicial system to improve lives. Her experience spans positions as a police officer, domestic violence legal liaison, substance abuse counselor, probation officer, special investigator for the Lake County State's Attorney’s Office, and Chief of Corrections, as well as Chief of Diversion and Inmate Programming.

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Attorney Witherspoon has built a career dedicated to fiercely advocating for individuals facing discrimination and inequality. As a hearing officer for local school districts, she has defended the rights of teachers, students, and administrators, ensuring that they receive fair and equitable treatment. During her six-year tenure as President of the Lake County branch of the NAACP, she championed the rights of underserved communities, tirelessly working to dismantle systemic injustices. Under her leadership, she forged strategic partnerships with local law enforcement, minority organizations, and the U.S. Department of Justice, fostering collaboration to drive meaningful change and advance civil rights initiatives.

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In addition to her professional roles, Attorney Witherspoon regularly attends training and seminars to stay current on key areas of law, including discrimination, education, employment, criminal, and civil rights. She is actively involved in several esteemed organizations, including the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, Lake County Bar Association, the Black Women's Lawyers' Association of Greater Chicago, and the National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA). Her achievements have earned her recognition among the Top 100 National Black Lawyers.

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J. Witherspoon is passionate about inspiring and uplifting the youth, a cause close to her heart. Her dedication to empowering the next generation of leaders has been a driving force in her career.