Remembering Governor James R. Thompson, Winston & Strawn Chairman 1993-2006

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our former Chairman, friend, and colleague, Governor James R. Thompson. The Governor led the firm as Chairman for 13 years, overseeing a period of tremendous growth. The impact of his leadership was profound. He had an unshakeable belief in the importance of doing the right thing that helped establish a culture for the firm that still guides us today. He led the effort to diversify the firm and provide opportunities for all to succeed.

The Governor was a legal lion – arguing more cases in the Illinois Supreme Court than any lawyer other than Abraham Lincoln.  Whether it was his ongoing zeal to improve the city where he was born and raised, his fight to break the chokehold of corruption in Chicago politics in the 1970s, or his determination to find justice for victims of 9/11 as a Presidential appointee to the 9/11 Commission, the Governor always led with his principles. Illinois, Chicago, and Winston & Strawn have lost a true leader. 

The Governor made an indelible impression on everyone around him, as shown here in a video tribute to the Governor at the firm’s 2015 Partners Conference, thanking him for his many years of service and friendship to the firm. We extend our sincere condolences to Governor Thompson's family.