About Cheryl

Cheryl Powell practices law in Mount Vernon, Illinois, focusing primarily on criminal law. She has been a solo practitioner since 1999, offering legal services in various areas, including family law, divorce, probate, collections, domestic violence, juvenile law, and landlord-tenant disputes. Her firm serves clients throughout Jefferson County and surrounding areas, ensuring that individuals receive comprehensive legal representation tailored to their needs. Cheryl earned her J.D. from Northern Illinois University in 1984. Before that, she completed her B.A.

in Political Science and Public Administration, with a minor in Sociology, from the same institution in 1982. She also holds an M.S. in Social Work from Southern Illinois University - Carbondale, obtained in 1996, and an A.S. in Business Administration from the College of Lake County, which she completed in 1980. This diverse educational background enhances her understanding of the complexities involved in legal cases, particularly those intersecting with social issues. Her legal career began as an associate in 1995, followed by her role as an assistant public defender in 1999.

Cheryl's experience includes coordinating the Family Law Task Force, a position she held in 1987. This role involved working closely with various stakeholders to address the needs of families in legal distress, further solidifying her commitment to family law and related issues. Cheryl is certified as an approved guardian ad litem and mediator. This lets the attorney represent the best interests of children in custody disputes and facilitate resolution in family law matters. Her experience in these areas has made her a advocate for her clients, particularly in sensitive situations involving children and families. She is an active member of the Illinois State Bar, as well as the Jefferson County Bar Association and Marion County Bar Association.

These affiliations keep her connected with the legal community and informed about developments in the law. Cheryl's commitment to her profession is evident in her ongoing participation in legal education and community service initiatives. Cheryl is admitted to practice before the U.S. Supreme Court and the Illinois state courts. Her diverse practice areas and experience position her as a well-rounded attorney capable of addressing many legal challenges. She continues to serve her community with dedication and professionalism, ensuring that her clients receive the best possible outcomes in their legal matters.

Education

Southern Illinois University - Carbondale

M.S. (1996) | Social work

1992

Northern Illinois University

J.D. | Law

1984

Northern Illinois University

B.A. (1983) | Political Science, Public Administration; with a Minor in Sociology

1982

College of Lake County

A.S. (1982) | Business Administration

1980

Languages

English (Spoken, Written)

Experience

Lawyer/Solo Practitioner

Law office of Cheryl A. Powell
1999

Assistant public defender

Marion County
1999

Associate

Douglas A. Antonik
1995

Family Law Task Force Coordinator

Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance
1987

Accepted Jurisdictions

U.S. Supreme Court
Illinois

Court Admissions

U.S. Supreme Court U.S. Supreme Court
Illinois State Supreme Court

Types of Cases Handled

Criminal Law Family Law Divorce Probate Collections Domestic Violence Juvenile Law Landlord Tenant

Certifications & Awards

Approved guardian ad litem

2nd judicial circuit

Approved mediator

2nd judicial circuit

Approved guardian ad litem

4th judicial circuit

Approved mediator

4th judicial circuit

Approved guardian ad litem

20th judicial circuit

Approved mediator

20th judicial circuit

Professional Associations

Illinois State Bar

has membership 1988 - Current

Jefferson county bar assn

has membership 1988 - Current

Marion County Bar Assn

has membership 1988 - Current

Office Locations

Main Office

 407 S. 27th Street, Suite B Mt Vernon IL 62864

Data is based on available information and may not reflect the most current status.