MARY COLE: PARTNER, BRADY COLE TRIAL LAWYERS LLC

Mary Cole has her eye on the prize—which she has been working towards since being asked to put her hat into the ring in April “I am currently running for Lake County State’s Attorney, which, if successful, would make me the first female State’s Attorney in Lake County. I feel a sense of duty to serve the citizens of Lake County,” says Cole, a former Lake County prosecutor, graduate of The John Marshall Law School, and AAIM Award winner who has chosen purple as her campaign color for the November 5 election. “That is the color you get when blue and red come together.” She has built a reputation for treating both victims and defendants with respect, using an honest but aggressive approach to succeed. “A real public servant understands that it is an honor to be there for people during their hardest moments,” says Cole, a partner in Brady Cole Trial Lawyers LLC who in addition to her work at prestigious firms, has been both a prosecuting and defense attorney. “Showing up for a person and treating them with dignity in their most undignified times is an opportunity to transform their life as well as your own.” She cites the influence of her mother, Mimi Cole—who was born in Thailand after her parents fled Communist China, overcoming significant life obstacles to become a successful businesswoman. This experience taught me to have compassion for my clients. As a result, Cole now navigates life with a mission to serve those around her, especially those who are most vulnerable. “It is through their personal hardship and suffering, and them allowing me to stand by them in their time of need, that I have an opportunity to rise to the occasion and become a champion,” she says. “There is nothing more honorable.”

For more information, visit bradycolelaw.com.