Join us for the first happy hour of the bar year at Perilla Steakhouse, hosted by AABA Second VP Vikas Didwania.

Take this opportunity to discuss your plans for the upcoming NAPABA convention, connect/re-connect with new and long-time friends in the community, and meet with AABA leadership to find out how you can get more involved. 

AABA membership is encouraged (join here), but not required, to attend this event. We are offering this gathering as a free trial of our monthly happy hour, one of the many benefits of membership. Event registration, however, is required and space is limited. Future happy hours will revert to members-only events.  

Date/Time:

October 7, 2026, 5:00 p.m.

Location:

Perilla Steakhouse
225 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

The transition into law school presents a steep learning curve, but success in your first year is largely a matter of strategy, preparation, and mindset. Join our panel of recent law graduates for an insightful discussion on navigating the 1L experience. Panelists will share candid advice on what to expect during your first year, proven techniques for mastering law school exams and securing top grades, and proactive steps you can take early on to position yourself for competitive summer employment opportunities.

Illinois general CLE credit will be sought for practicing attorneys. 

Note:  To facilitate an open and frank discussion with the panel and to encourage active audience participation, this program will not be recorded.  Register today.

2026-27 Mentorship Kickoff Event
Wednesday, October 21, 500-700p

AABA Chicago is proud to kick off its 2026-27 mentorship program for law students and junior attorneys!

Mentees will be paired with attorneys from various firms, both large and small, government, public interest organizations, and in-house counsel departments. Mentors and mentees will receive their pairings/pod assignments prior to the event via email. 

Separate registration is required to participate in the mentorship program. Mentor sign-up is here. Mentee sign-up is here. 

Unlocking the Chambers: Federal Judges Share
What It Takes to Land and Excel in a Clerkship

A judicial clerkship offers an unparalleled opportunity to hone legal writing skills, observe courtroom advocacy firsthand, and gain invaluable insight into judicial decision-making. Join a distinguished panel of federal judges for a candid discussion on the clerkship experience. The judges will share what they seek in prospective law clerks, common pitfalls in application materials, and how to stand out during the interview process.  Panelists will also offer practical advice on how clerks can maximize their time in chambers to build a strong foundation for a successful legal career.  This program is ideal for law students across all class years, judicial clerkship applicants, and young associates considering clerkships.

Panel

Hon. John Kness
U.S. District Judge

Hon. Heather McShain
U.S. Magistrate Judge

Hon. Manish Shah
U.S. District Judge

Illinois general CLE credit will be sought for practicing attorneys. 

Note:  To facilitate an open and frank discussion with the panel and to encourage active audience participation, this program will not be recorded.  Register today.

SAVE THE DATE

The 2027 AABA Chicago Gala

May 13, 2027

The Exchange

2026 Gala Award Recipients

2026 Gala Planning Committee