ADR Systems hosted its annual Women’s Initiative Happy Hour on June 26th to celebrate and promote collaboration among women in the legal community. The event highlighted several of ADR Systems’ female mediators and arbitrators, including Hon. Kay M. Hanlon, (Ret.), Hon. Lisa R. Curcio, (Ret.) and Hon. Helaine L. Berger, (Ret.).

“It’s a wonderful event because it’s women supporting women,” Judge Berger said. “We at ADR systems want women in the legal community to be able to network and grow their own businesses. Since ADR Systems works in many varied areas of law and most attorneys are specialized, events like this allow women to expand their network in a relaxed setting.”

The event also offered the chance for attorneys to meet with retired judges to learn tips on alternative dispute resolution as well as in court.

“Our annual Women’s Initiative event is a special gathering for women attorneys who are making an impact practicing in various areas of law,” Judge Curcio said.  “The casual setting allows attorneys to learn from each other, network and speak with ADR Systems’ neutrals — all retired judges — regarding mediation, arbitration and courtroom practice.“

ADR Systems Women’s Initiative Committee has hosted happy hours and diversity CLEs in the past and will be hosting more events in the future.

Hon. Helaine L. Berger, (Ret.) is a senior mediator and arbitrator at ADR Systems. Before coming to ADR Systems, she served for 19 years as a judge in the Cook County Circuit Court’s Domestic Relations Division and the Child Protection and Juvenile Justice Department. Her high settlement rate is a testament to her innate ability to very quickly relate to people personally, even in the most difficult and emotionally charged situations.

To view Judge Berger’s full bio, click here.

Judge Curcio has more than 15 years of judicial experience, 11 of which were in the Chancery Division of the Cook County Circuit Court. In her last seven years on the bench, she focused on mechanics lien and construction contracts and defects. Her skills are a neutral are complemented by her knowledge of real estate transactions, business and the banking industry – all gained prior to becoming an attorney.

To view Judge Curcio’s full bio, click here.

To check Judges Berger and Curcio’s availability, click here.