Naperville, IL family law attorney Jacqueline Helm shares why she became a lawyer and discusses her service to the community and what she does outside of the office. She reveals that the decision to become a lawyer was driven by a genuine desire to help others. From a young age, the individual was deeply troubled by injustice, whether it involved bullying or unfair treatment. This sense of empathy ignited a passion for righting wrongs and assisting those who lacked the resources or knowledge to defend themselves. Recognizing the complex and intimidating nature of the legal system, the individual pursued law school to acquire the skills needed to advocate for people during their most challenging moments. The ability to help others at their lowest points and make a meaningful difference in their lives is both rewarding and the primary motivation behind their legal career.

In the early stages of their career, the individual had the opportunity to work at a small firm, where they expressed an interest in pro bono work. The firm supported this initiative, and they contributed to several legal volunteer agencies in the Chicagoland area, offering services to indigent clients. These pro bono cases, spanning over 20 years, remain among the most rewarding and frequently discussed by the individual, representing the core reason behind their decision to become a lawyer and reflecting their strong commitment to giving back.

Beyond their legal work, the individual is passionate about volunteering outside the legal field. For example, they recently volunteered with World Central Kitchen at refugee intake centers in Spain. Volunteering has been a lifelong passion, and the individual hopes to devote even more time to helping others through volunteer work once they reach retirement.

In addition to their professional and volunteer pursuits, the individual has a deep love for travel. They have explored various parts of the world, starting with cultural trips across Europe and later expanding into more adventurous travels, including safaris and visits to natural wonders like the fjords of Norway and destinations across South America. Traveling remains a significant passion, offering both adventure and inspiration.