In this episode of On the Bar, we sit down with Andrea O’Brien, Court Administrator, and Jason Mathis, Deputy Court Administrator, of the 16th Judicial Circuit Court. They share how they each found their path to Court Administration, what they enjoy most about their roles, and the unique challenges that come with keeping the courthouse running smoothly. From putting out daily “fires” to navigating new technology systems, courthouse updates, and the complexities of securing court interpreters, Andrea and Jason give us an inside look at the work that keeps justice moving forward.

Under the direction of the Chief Judge, the Court Administrators of the 16th Judicial Circuit are responsible for supervising the court's non-judicial staff and managing court operations.

The Court Administrators supervise staff at our two main courthouse locations, the Kane County Courthouse and the Kane County Judicial Center. Staffing includes Bailiffs, Judicial Assistants, Staff Attorneys, OP Staff, Interpreter Staff, Jury Commission Clerks, Paralegals, and our Case Flow Manager.

The management of court operations includes personnel management, fiscal/budget coordination, public relations, space and equipment/technology management, long-range planning, case flow management, jury management, management of our interpreter program, as well as oversight of our Law Library, Mandatory Arbitration, and our various court mediation programs.

The Office of the Court Administrator is dedicated to the 16th Judicial Circuit's mission and vision, ensuring equal and timely court access while fostering public trust and confidence.

In this episode of On the Bar, we sit down with longtime Kane County Bar Association member and former president Patrick Kinnally. Patrick shares stories from his decades-long legal career, reflects on his time leading the Kane County Bar Association, and offers insights and advice for current and future attorneys. From memorable cases to lessons learned along the way, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about the law and the legal community.

Mr. Kinnally concentrates his practice in general and commercial litigation, probate, immigration, administrative, environmental and local government law. He has been recognized by his peers as among the top five percent of all Illinois lawyers in commercial litigation and general litigation and has received the highest peer rating for skill and integrity. He is a respected, skilled and tenacious advocate sought after by lawyers, businesses and individuals alike.

In this episode of On the Bar, we sit down with longtime KCBA member Richard Todas for a candid conversation about his legal career. From his early days in law to the lessons he's learned along the way, Richard shares stories, insights, and advice for the next generation of attorneys. It's a thoughtful look at how the practice—and the profession—has changed, and what’s remained constant.

Most people clock out after work. Wally Werderich clocked in for a 2,350-mile race down the Mississippi River — and made history.

In this episode of On the Bar, we sit down with Kane County Assistant Public Defender and Guinness World Record holder Wally Wederich. In May 2023, Wally and three teammates set off in a 23-foot canoe from Minnesota’s Lake Itasca, aiming to break the Guinness World Record for fastest time down the Mississippi River. They paddled in shifts — eating, sleeping, and navigating around the clock — finishing in a record breaking 16 days, 20 hours, and 16 minutes.

Wally shares how he first got into long-distance canoeing, the rigorous training and preparation the entire team undertook, and the physical and mental challenges they faced on the river. He also dives into the specifics of breaking a world record, including the steps they took to verify their achievement. Plus, we explore the making of Mississippi Speed Record: An Epic Adventure, the documentary that captured their entire journey — available for watch on WildernessMindset.com.

In this episode, we sit down with Lisa Aust, Executive Director of Kane County Court Services, for a deep dive into the many facets of her role and the innovative work being done in the justice system. From the structure and purpose of specialty courts to the process of admitting participants, Lisa breaks down how these alternatives to traditional court can change lives.

We also explore the science behind behavior change, especially in emerging adults, whose still-developing brains can lead to impulsive decisions and long-term consequences. Lisa shares how understanding brain development is shaping more effective, compassionate responses within the justice system.

She also speaks about the rewarding nature of her work, the importance of a dedicated team, and the ongoing effort to make the court system a place of both accountability and growth.

Lisa Aust is the Executive Director of Kane County Court Services, where she oversees probation, juvenile detention, and court-related programs.

In this episode of On the Bar, host Lori sits down with Ellie Armstrong, the Kane County Bar Association’s Office & Membership Coordinator, for an inside look at the role that keeps KCBA running smoothly. Ellie shares how she got her start, what her day-to-day responsibilities involve, and the key things KCBA members should know — but often don’t.

They discuss what’s ahead for KCBA, including the membership renewal period and the importance of renewing early. Ellie also highlights the benefits of being a KCBA member and offers insight into the Lawyer Referral Service — explaining why it’s such a valuable tool for members.

As Ellie prepares to move on from her role this August, she reflects on her time at KCBA and shares insights for anyone considering applying to fill her shoes. If you’re interested in applying for this role, keep an eye out for the job posting which will be coming soon.

Ellie Armstrong is the current Office and Membership Coordinator for the Kane County Bar Association. She is an alum of St. Charles East High School and graduated from Millikin University in 2023 with a bachelor's degree in Commercial Music.

What happens when your coworkers also happen to be your family? In this episode, we sit down with three members of the Peskind Law Firm — Steven Peskind and his two children, Mollie and John — who not only work together but also share a last name. They explore the beginnings of the Peskind Law Firm, the unique dynamics of practicing law as a family, reflecting on what it was like growing up in a household rooted in the legal profession, and whether Mollie and John always knew they'd become lawyers. They also discuss the balance between family and business, the lessons passed down through generations, and the possibility of a fourth generation continuing the tradition. It's a conversation about legacy, family ties, and the future of the Peskind Law Firm.

Steven N. Peskind is the principal attorney at Peskind Law Firm. He is recognized for his expertise in family law and has represented a wide range of clients, including politicians, business owners, and professionals. Steven is a Diplomate of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers and a member of the International Academy of Family Lawyers. He has received numerous accolades, including being named "Lawyer of the Year" by Best Lawyers and recognized by Super Lawyers and Leading Lawyers.

Mollie Peskind is a Senior Associate Attorney at Peskind Law Firm, specializing in family law. Known for her creative problem-solving and thorough case management, Mollie excels at resolving complex disputes. She takes a meticulous approach to each case, using innovative strategies to overcome obstacles. Mollie works collaboratively with her colleagues, valuing the firm’s team approach to solving difficult legal issues. Clients appreciate her empathetic nature, strong listening skills, and responsive communication. Mollie holds a law degree from DePaul College of Law and is admitted to practice in Illinois.

John P. M. Peskind is an Associate Attorney at Peskind Law Firm, specializing in family law. Known for his exceptional legal research, writing, and courtroom advocacy, John excels at crafting strong and persuasive legal arguments. His communication skills help ease clients' anxieties, keeping them informed and confident throughout their cases. John values the collaborative approach at Peskind Law Firm, believing that the collective expertise of the team leads to successful outcomes. John holds a law degree from DePaul College of Law and is admitted to practice in Illinois.

**Thank you to Theriault Booth Attorneys at Law for sponsoring this episode of On the Bar**

In this episode, Lori speaks with Jeffrey Theriault, partner at Theriault Booth, about his transition from a career in law enforcement to the legal profession. Jeffrey offers insight into his time as a police officer — the demands, challenges, and pivotal moments that shaped his path and how those experiences ultimately led him to pursue a career in law. He discusses the inspiration behind his decision to attend law school, the people who influenced that journey, and the unique challenges of returning to school later in life. Jeffrey shares how his background in policing continues to shape his approach to practicing law, offering a distinctive perspective on the transition from Badge to Bar.

Jeffrey T. Theriault is a partner at Theriault Booth, where he focuses on real estate transactions, estate planning, probate administration, and personal and work-related injury claims. He earned his J.D. from The John Marshall Law School in 2012. Prior to becoming an attorney, Jeffrey had a successful career in law enforcement, and his background continues to influence his legal practice.

**Thank you to our 2025 Platinum Sponsor, Churchill Reporting, for sponsoring this episode of On the Bar**

In this episode of On the Bar with the Kane County Bar Association, host Lori Schmidt welcomes KCBA Executive Director Gina Armstrong. Together, they discuss Gina’s personal and professional background and the journey that led her to her current role. Gina offers insight into her responsibilities as Executive Director, introduces key members of her team, and highlights several upcoming events. The conversation also touches on Gina's favorite parts of the job and aspirations for the future of the KCBA.

Gina Armstrong is the current Executive Director of the Kane County Bar Association (KCBA), a role she has held since April 2023. She has worked at many different companies such as Carson Pirie Scott, Met Life Group Medical Claims, Kane County Chronicle Newspaper, and numerous wealth management companies in various positions from administrative assistant to manager. Gina first joined the KCBA as the Front Office Coordinator, where her dedication and leadership quickly stood out. With the departure of Executive Director, Lori Hertel,  she was encouraged to apply for the Executive Director position.

Since stepping into the role, Gina has brought fresh ideas and a renewed focus on member engagement, helping to grow and strengthen the KCBA community, and building its membership. She lives in St. Charles with her husband, Mark, and their daughter, Ellie. In her free time, Gina enjoys cooking, antiquing, card making, and gardening.

In this episode of On the Bar with the Kane County Bar Association, Lori sits down with Hallē Eichert, the Director of the Kane County Law Library & Self-Help Legal Center. They discuss Hallē's professional background, the history of the Kane County Law Library, and the services the library offers to both attorneys and the public.

As the Director of the Kane County Law Library & Self Help Legal Center, Hallē Eichert draws and builds on her undergraduate degree in English from Luther College and her Master’s Degree in Library and Information Studies with a specialization in law from the University of Rhode Island to create a dynamic law library user experience.  Hallē is designated as the Self-Represented Litigant Coordinator for the Sixteenth Judicial Circuit by the Administrative Office of the Illinois Courts and the Illinois Supreme Court Access to Justice Committee.  She has sat on the Illinois Library Association Board, DuPage Library System Board (President), Kane County Bar Foundation Board (President) and Reaching Across Illinois Library System Board, and was a member of the Elgin Community College Paralegal program advisory committee for many years. Currently, Hallē is a member of the Expungement/Sealing Subcommittee of the Standardized Forms Subcommittee of the Illinois Supreme Court Access to Justice Commission, is serving on a statewide Steering Committee for the Court-Library Access Partnership Pilot Program, and co-chairs the Juvenile Justice Center Library Committee. Additionally, she has been a Judicial Education Conference faculty member since 2020, co-teaching on the topic of best practices in working with self-represented litigants. Awards include 2005 Kane County Bar Association Liberty Bell, 2007 Kane County Employee Recognition, 2017 Kane County Chronicle Women of Distinction, and 2021 Jeffrey D. Colman Access to Justice. Hallē also conducts legal research classes for local libraries, library systems, as well as serving on panels at both state and national conferences regarding remote court access.  

She lives with her husband, Erik, and their two dogs Lily and Willow in Batavia, Illinois.  They spend their spare time with their four boys and grandchildren, as well as antiquing and traveling with friends.