Vanessa Clohessy concentrates her practice in counseling and representing non-public schools in personnel matters, student issues, contracts, and policy work. In addition, Vanessa is a seasoned litigator with more than 30 years of experience representing clients in all phases of civil litigation. She has successfully defended public and private schools in judicial and administrative proceedings primarily in employment related disputes, tax exemption, and student discipline.
Private school clients turn to Vanessa for her effective skills in interpreting the ever-increasing number of laws that apply to that sector. She also assists her clients in navigating the myriad of administrative regulations with which private schools must comply.
Outside of the office, Vanessa is an avid tennis player and downhill skier. She enjoys RV-ing, camping, hiking, and visiting National Parks with her husband, son, and daughter.
Professional Leadership
- Illinois Bar Association, Member, 1990 – Present
- Illinois Council of School Attorneys, Member, 1998 – Present
- National School Board Association, Member, 1998 – Present
- Northwest Suburban Bar Association, Education Law Committee, Past Chairwoman, 2000
- Lake County Juvenile Justice Council, School Safety Committee, 2003 – 2005
- Hellenic Bar Association, Member, 2014 – Present
Community Leadership
- BSA Troop 9117, Scoutmaster, 2019 – Present
- People for Elmhurst Parks, Vice President, 2015 – Present
- Greek Orthodox Metropolis Family Ministry, Chairwoman, 2018 – Present
- Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church Philoptochos Society (Friends of the Poor), Member, 2000-present
- Rotary International, Paul Harris Fellow
Honors & Recognitions
- America's Top 50 Lawyers - Education Law - Illinois - 2026
- Leading Lawyers Network, 2017 – Present
- Boy Scouts of America, Silver Acorn Award, 2018
EDUCATION
- Indiana University, B.A., Journalism, 1986
- Indiana University, B.A., Spanish, 1986
- Chicago-Kent College of Law, J.D., 1990
Contact info:
vclohessy@hlerk.com
847-670-9000 (office)