Jacki Wallace

“It’s your career. You’re in charge of your law degree and your profession. It’s yours to develop, protect, grow, and learn.” - Jacki

Jacki grew up in Glastonbury, Connecticut, a town just outside Hartford. She attended Fairfield University, where she earned a degree in biology. Her lab experience sparked an interest in patent law, which led her to DePaul University College of Law. She joined Foley & Lardner as a summer associate and has been with the firm ever since. Jacki sits in the firm’s Trademark, Copyright & Advertising group, where she counsels clients on protecting and promoting their brands.

Now a partner at Foley, Jacki credits her decision to build her career at the firm to its people and culture. She appreciates Foley’s welcoming, supportive environment and the firm’s strong commitment to pro bono work and community engagement, including partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Club. For Jacki, work is about fostering culture, setting meaningful goals, and creating an engaging workplace where people feel proud of what they do.

Jacki values mentorship, drawing from the guidance she’s received throughout her own career. She’s passionate about helping people find their direction and recognizes that personal development is just as important as professional growth. Her advice is clear: prioritize integrity and take ownership of your career by acknowledging what you don’t know, committing to doing things the right way, and taking pride in the work you do.

Outside of work, Jacki is a proud mother of eight children, balancing her professional life with a busy schedule. Her ability to juggle these responsibilities reflects her belief that life comes first, and work fits in around it.

As a member of ChiWIP’s Community Service Committee, Jacki plays an active role in organizing initiatives that give back to the community and support women’s causes, empowering the next generation of women in law. She advocates for the importance of taking on leadership roles in professional organizations, urging students to go beyond simply attending events and instead build meaningful relationships and skills that will benefit their careers long-term.

Reflecting on her journey, Jacki highlights the importance of integrity, autonomy, and community. She’s built a career rooted in authenticity, continuous learning, and a commitment to both professional excellence and personal fulfillment.

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