About Chris
Chris Gramm built a measured path into law that began in the classroom. He earned a B.A. in Political Science from Illinois State University in 1989 and moved on to study Asian Studies at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, completing an M.A. in 1991. He returned to Illinois for his legal studies at Northern Illinois University, completing a J.D. in 2001.
After law school, Gramm joined the McLean County State's Lawyer's Office as an Assistant State's Lawyer in 2001. The role placed him in the public sector at the outset of his career. He gained courtroom exposure and handled matters on behalf of the county. Those early years in a governmental office shaped his practical approach to case handling and client interaction.
In 2005 he moved into private practice as a partner at Stivers & Gramm, LLC. Partnership altered his responsibilities. He began splitting time between client work, case strategy and the business side of a small firm. The transition from a county office to partnership required different skills. He balanced case preparation with office management and the demands that come with running a practice.
Throughout his career Gramm has practiced in Illinois. He has navigated both public and private roles within the same state legal system. That continuity has allowed him to develop an understanding of local courts, procedures and professional networks that matter to clients and colleagues.
Colleagues describe him as pragmatic in court and straightforward in client meetings. He favors clear, direct explanations over jargon. That approach can help clients make choices under pressure. It also makes him a familiar presence in negotiations and hearings where practical problem solving matters more than theory.
Outside of courtroom appearances, his work has required ongoing attention to procedural detail and case management. Those tasks often carry as much weight as the moments that attract headlines. Gramm's career reflects steady advancement: a public sector start, followed by an early move into firm leadership.
He remains based in Illinois and continues to practice at Stivers & Gramm, LLC, where he represents clients in state matters and manages firm responsibilities.
