Guided by her Christian faith and a deep commitment to justice, Attorney J. Witherspoon is a dedicated advocate for equality and community empowerment. A Chicago native who grew up in the Robert Taylor Projects, she witnessed firsthand the hardships and transformative power of the legal system, inspiring her to earn a Bachelor's in Criminal Justice and a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School (now UIC). She is also a certified Equal Employment Opportunity Counselor, Crisis Intervention Specialist, EEOC Investigator, and Mediator.

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With over 25 years in public service, Attorney Witherspoon has served as a police officer, probation officer, special investigator, and Chief of Corrections. As a hearing officer, she fights for fair treatment in education, defending the rights of teachers, students, and administrators. During her six-year tenure as President of the Lake County NAACP, she forged key partnerships to advance civil rights and dismantle systemic inequities.

She remains active in the legal community as a member of the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, Lake County Bar Association, Black Women’s Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago, Christian Legal Society and the National Employment Lawyers Association. Her leadership and advocacy have earned her recognition among the Top 100 National Black Lawyers.

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Attorney Witherspoon’s faith fuels her passion for mentorship and service. She believes in faith-driven leadership and empowering others to embrace their God-given potential. Through her work, she continues to be a steadfast champion for justice and hope.