About Jay
Jay Kaufman earned his law degree from Northern Illinois University and practices in Illinois. He built his legal foundation in the state’s courts and accepted partnership at Kaufman Law Group, LLC in 1980. That long tenure shapes how he approaches work and how he fits into the firm’s structure.
Kaufman’s career is rooted in steady practice at a single firm. Becoming a partner in 1980 placed him squarely in the firm’s leadership ranks early on. Over the years he has carried responsibilities common to long-serving partners: advising clients, supervising case development, and guiding junior lawyers. He has also taken part in the day-to-day decisions that keep a midsize firm operating.
Colleagues describe him as practical in the office and unpretentious in court. He favors clear explanations over legalese. His courtroom style aims at clarity for judges and juries rather than rhetorical flourish. Inside the office he has been a resource for associates navigating both legal questions and the routines of litigation and client management.
Kaufman’s work at the firm has involved a mix of client counseling and litigation management. He has handled intake, strategy sessions, motion practice and trial preparation. He also plays a role in negotiating resolutions and, when cases proceed, preparing them for trial. Those activities require close coordination with clients and staff, and he has long been one of the firm’s reliable points of contact when cases become complex.
Despite the length of his career, Kaufman keeps a practical perspective on law practice. He emphasizes preparing cases carefully, setting realistic expectations, and communicating regularly with clients. He spends part of his time mentoring newer attorneys and helping them translate classroom learning into courtroom readiness. That mentorship is part of the firm’s daily rhythm.
Kaufman maintains his practice at Kaufman Law Group, LLC and continues to handle client matters at the firm. He currently practices at Kaufman Law Group, LLC, where he handles matters across the firm’s practice areas.
