Our Professionalism Spotlight series highlights Illinois legal professionals who demonstrate the ideals of professionalism in their careers.
In this Professionalism Spotlight, we spoke to Roya Samarghandi, Chief Advocacy and Innovation Officer at the Chicago Bar Foundation (CBF), the charitable arm of the Chicago Bar Association.
The CBF works to increase access to free and affordable legal assistance for people in need and to make the courts and legal system more user-friendly, fair, and accessible for people without lawyers.
After starting her career in corporate transactional work, Roya joined the CBF’s legal incubator program, the Justice Entrepreneurs Project (JEP), to make a more direct impact in her community.
Through the JEP, Roya launched her own solo practice, Carmel Law, LLC, where she primarily practiced family law and focused on helping the underserved middle class.
In her current role as Chief Advocacy and Innovation Officer at the CBF, Roya works to ensure that people of all incomes have equitable access to justice.
How do you remain civil in tense situations?
In the wise words of Ted Lasso: be curious.
My work depends on collaboration with many stakeholders, so it helps to step back and understand where the other person is coming from and what their ultimate objective may be. That perspective can transform tension into problem-solving.
And when needed, I remind myself that civility is not only about respecting others, but also about maintaining my own clarity and credibility.
What is an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law?
For me, an attorney’s role in furthering public confidence in the rule of law starts with modeling fairness, integrity, and respect in our daily interactions — with the people we serve and with one another.
Beyond that, we share a collective responsibility to make the justice system fairer and more accessible. In my work as a practitioner and now at the CBF, I’ve seen how important it is for the public to experience the law as a tool for solving problems and promoting justice, not as a set of barriers.
What do you think is the biggest challenge impacting lawyers today?
One of the biggest challenges impacting lawyers today is adapting to the changing expectations of clients and the public. People are looking for more affordable and accessible legal services, but too much of our profession is still tied to traditional models.
Through the Above the Line Network, I’ve had the opportunity to work with lawyers and legal innovators across the country who are experimenting with new ways of delivering services. Their work shows that with the right tools and support, lawyers can meet these evolving needs while building sustainable practices.
How can the legal profession address workplace bullying?
Tackling bullying in the legal profession starts with setting a clear tone: it’s not acceptable. Not in courts, firms, or other organizations.
We need to build structures where people feel safe speaking up and know they’ll be supported, not punished, for doing so.
Just as importantly, we should be investing in leadership development, mentorship, and mental health support so that respect, civility, and well-being aren’t the exception, but the expectation.
What do you do for fun?
I love exploring Chicago’s neighborhoods and food scene, going to the park with my dog Leo, and traveling whenever I can.
Our Professionalism Spotlight recognizes legal professionals throughout Illinois who are admired for their professionalism and civility. Check out more interviews here.
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