MaryAllison Mahacek

The leading rule for the lawyer, as for a man of every calling, is diligence. –Abraham Lincoln

One of the most intriguing and exciting aspects of being a lawyer is that no case is exactly the same. I enjoy coming up with unique solutions to fit each client’s unique set of personal experiences. In doing so, I strive to emulate the qualities of a zealous, fair, and hardworking legal advocate, as I believe that is what all people deserve. 

Education


  • J.D., cum laude, University of Illinois College of Law, Pro Bono Certificate
  • B.A., University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign, English and Communication, with Distinction


Bar Certifications


  • Admitted to the Bar of the Illinois Supreme Court


Bar Association Memberships


  • Chicago Bar Association


Community Involvement 


  • Ms. Mahacek voluteers for the anuual Lavelle Law Charities Food Drive.


Awards and Recognition


  • Harno Scholar, University of Illinois College of Law, Spring 2022
  • CALI Award—Negotiation Skills and Strategies, University of Illinois College of Law, Spring 2022
  • Outstanding Instructor Award—LAS 101, University of Illinois College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, Spring 2018


Publications 


  • MaryAllison Mahacek, The Mrs. B Dilemma: How Can We Get Elderly People of Color More Access and Encouragement to Use Mental Health Services?, 29 Elder L.J. 509-546 (2022).
  • Notes Editor for the University of Illinois Elder Law Journal


Read My Posts

Lavelle Law News and Events

An essential part of a good contract is often overlooked. Learn about fee shifting provisions.

Fee Shifting Provisions in Contracts & Statutes

By Joseph O. Upchurch and MaryAllison Mahacek • 23 Apr, 2024
Between the state of Illinois and federal courts, there are well over 200 statutes that deal with fee shifting provisions. They lay out ways in which legal fees may become the responsibility of one party in a lawsuit. In this video, Lavelle Law Associates Jodie Upchurch and MaryAllison Mahacek discuss ways that these provisions should be included in contracts and how they can be used advantageously.
Terrence Shannon Jr. Succeeds on TRO and IR ruling against the University of Illinois.

ENJOINED TO PLAY—Illini Basketball Player Succeeds on Temporary Restraining Order and Injunctive Relief Against University of Illinois

By MaryAllison Mahacek and Matthew J. Sheahin • 30 Jan, 2024
While out on suspension, TJ's legal team filed a Complaint and Emergency Motion for TRO and Injunctive Relief (Terrence Shannon Jr. v. The Board of Trustees of The University of Illinois, and Timothy Kileen, in his official capacity, Case No. 24-CV-2010). The injunctive relief sought, barring the school from banning him from team activities while his criminal case is still pending, is the focus of this article.
BNSF Railway Ordered to Pay $228 Million Under IL Biometric Information Privacy Act

Trouble on the Tracks - BNSF Railway Ordered to Pay $228 Million Under Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act

By MaryAllison Mahacek • 01 Dec, 2022
The first case to go to trial under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act has ended in a $228 million judgment entered against the defendant company BNSF Railway. BIPA passed in 2008, and litigation over its provisions followed, as it is the strictest law of its kind in the United States.
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