About Me
Background
My name is Rachel Hess. I have practiced law in Illinois since 1994 and I practice primarily in Kane, Kendall, DeKalb and Du Page, and other counties on a case-by-case basis.
Experience You Can Trust
I am a former DUI, misdemeanor, and felony prosecutor for both Kane and LaSalle Counties. I started my career in 1994 as a judicial law clerk in Kane County. In 1995, I went to work as an Assistant State's Attorney in Kane County and, in 1997, a Felony Assistant State's Attorney in LaSalle County. I also worked as an Assistant Appellate Defender in LaSalle County. In 2000, I opened my own office concentrating on both criminal defense and civil matters. Having worked on both sides, I have developed strong relationships with prosecutors, public defenders, caseworkers, police officers, judges, clerks, bailiffs, and other county personnel. This is significant because strong relationships are crucial to the successful practice of law.
Published
I have been published in the areas of criminal, traffic/DUI, landlord-tenant, and CyberCrimes in many formats including practice manuals, bar journals, newsletters, magazines, and appellate opinions.
Involved in Changing State Law
I am a former member of the Illinois State Bar Association Traffic Laws & Courts Section Council. I was also an Assistant Appellate Defender for the Third District Office of the State Appellate Defender. In that capacity, I submitted over 75 appellate briefs to the State appellate courts and I have argued before the Third District Court of Appeals. I have also successfully petitioned the Illinois Supreme Court for Leave to Appeal and had a brief successfully argued before the Illinois Supreme Court, which effectively changed the DUI law in Illinois.
Public Service
In addition to serving as an Assistant State's Attorney and Assistant Appellate Defender, I was selected by the Kane County Judiciary in 2006 to serve as one of four criminal and juvenile abuse/neglect conflict attorneys in Kane County. I still serve the county in that capacity. Altogether, I have worked and served the public in Kane and the surrounding counties for over 30 years.
Philosophy
My philosophy is that communication is the key to client satisfaction and effective case management. I understand that every case is unique and personal to each client. I pledge to give each case the utmost attention and to promptly communicate any development affecting case status as soon as reasonably possible. Since my satisfied clients are my best referral resource, I am committed to serving their needs in the most economical and efficient manner possible.
Copyright © 2024 Rachel J. Hess