James B. Durkin

Partner

James Durkin is a partner in the Chicago office of Arnstein & Lehr. He is a member of the Governmental & Municipal Affairs Practice Group. Mr. Durkin has assisted public and private entities by conducting and coordinating internal investigations and problem solving through regulatory and legislative remedies. In addition, he counsels private and governmental entities on public finance issues. Mr. Durkin is an AV-rated attorney.

Mr. Durkin previously served as an assistant Illinois attorney general and as an assistant Cook County states attorney. In 2002 he was the Republican nominee for the United States Senate for the state of Illinois. He is currently the assistant minority leader in the Illinois House of Representatives serving the 82nd District. In December 2008, Mr. Durkin served as the ranking Republican for the Illinois House of Representatives Impeachment Committee regarding Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich.

Professional Activities and Achievements

Mr. Durkin is a member of the Chicago Bar Association and is a member of its board of managers.  He also serves on the board of trustees of The John Marshall Law School. Since 1996 he has served on the board of advisors of Misericordia—Heart of Mercy Home. Mr. Durkin has also served on the board of advisors of Giant Steps School for Autism since 2000. From 1992-1997 he was a trustee for Triton Community College and from 1994-1997 he was vice-chairman.

Since 2006 Mr. Durkin has served the 82nd District as a state representative in the Illinois House of Representatives and from 1995-2003 he served the 44th District. He was the Illinois co-chair for Senator John McCain’s presidential campaign in 2000 and 2008. He is also an executive committee member of the Illinois Republican Party (2009-present).

Education

John Marshall Law School (J.D., 1989)
Illinois State University (B.S. Criminal Justice, 1984)

Bar admissions

State of Illinois
United States District Court – Northern District of Illinois