       |
|
Practice Areas: |
14 South Second Street
Belleville, Illinois 62220
Phone: (618) 235-1600
Fax: (618) 235-1617
E-mail: susanwilsonlaw@norcom2000.com
Articles
Attorney Susan Parnell Wilson Helps Clients in Crisis
By Suzanne Hutcherson
For The Legal Reporter
BELLEVILLE - From 1972 to 1982, Susan Parnell Wilson was a teacher at Dupo High School. Through her participation in the teachers' union movement during a labor strike, Wilson inadvertently discovered a new direction, and a new
career.
Intrigued by the inner workings of the legal system, Wilson accepted a part- time job as a paralegal. This exposure led to the full-time pursuit of a career in law; a step that Wilson describes as a natural progression.
Wilson was awarded a Juris Doctorate from St. Louis University in 1985. In November of 1985, she began practicing family law.
Wilson established her own law practice in October, 1991. Located at 14 S. Second St. in Belleville, she anticipates a bright future as her practice continues to grow. She also looks forward to welcoming a new associate.
"At first I was concerned about going out on my own. I always worked for someone else. I had to overcome that feeling and find the courage to take a chance - and I've done well. My office staff has grown and soon I'll be welcoming
a new associate," she said.
"I love what I do and I like coming to work every day."
Wilson finds the practice of family law both challenging and rewarding.
"It takes patience. You must be a people person and like helping people overcome their problems. Divorce situations are very traumatic… You are working with families whose lives have been split apart.
"It is rewarding to see clients come out of crises and move toward recovery. It's surprising to watch many clients come out of these situations with new coping skills and a new focus. Some walk away stronger and better people,"
she explained.
Opportunities for women lawyers continue to grow as more law schools welcome increasing numbers of female students.
"The law offers great opportunities for women. Today, a woman can enter into any area of concentration; and many are practicing in areas of personal injury, probate, labor law and workers' compensation. I can't think of any area
that a woman could not excel in," Wilson stated.
For women interested in pursuing a career in law, Wilson offers this advice.
"Find a good law school and while there, find a law firm that handles a variety of different types of cases, and then select your area of concentration. The best way to achieve success is to focus upon one area of practice. You are limited
only by your personal interests, so know your interests and your limitations," Wilson advised.
Wilson grew up on a farm near Olney, Ill. She credits her personal and professional success to an upbringing founded upon traditional family values.
"My family created a stable influence in my life. I graduated from Greenville College in 1972, a Christian-oriented institution. Strong values have enabled me to face many challenges over the years and I credit them for my success,"
she stated.