Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani, LLP. logo.

Jessica C. Barnes

Associate

Jessica Barnes is a trusted advocate for businesses navigating complex litigation. She practices in the firm’s Environmental/Toxic Tort, Product & General Liability and Employment practice groups, where she represents corporations – ranging from small enterprises to Fortune 500 companies – in high-stakes matters across Illinois and beyond.

Her employment work includes advising and defending employers on claims involving discrimination, harassment, wrongful termination, and other workplace disputes. Clients value her ability to quickly assess risk, offer clear guidance, and craft solutions that align with business goals.

Before entering private practice, Jessica gained valuable judicial experience serving as a law clerk to the Honorable E. Kenneth Wright Jr., Presiding Judge of the Municipal Department in Cook County. As a law student she also served as a judicial extern in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, where she deepened her understanding of federal court practice and procedure.

In recognition of her skill and commitment to excellence, Jessica was named to the National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 in Illinois. With a sharp legal mind and a practical, client-centered approach, Jessica is known for helping businesses manage risk, resolve disputes, and stay focused on what matters most – their bottom line.

Admissions

  • Illinois
  • U.S. District Court, Northern and Southern Districts of Illinois

Memberships

  • Black Women Lawyer Association, Co-Chair of Young Lawyers Section (2022)

Community Involvement

  • Associate Board Member, Cabrini Green Legal Aid (2022-Present)
  • Council Member, Dean’s Diversity Council at Loyola University Chicago School of Law (2021 – Present)
  • Coach, Thurgood Marshall Moot Court Team at Loyola University Chicago School of Law (Sep 2020-May 2021)

Education

  • J.D., Loyola University Chicago School of Law, 2020
    • Thurgood Marshall Moot Court, National Quarter Finalist
    • Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot Fellow
    • Judicial Extern
    • Annals of Health Law & Life Sciences, Staff Writer
    • ABA Judicial Clerkship Program, 2020 Participant
  • B.S., University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, 2014

Honors

  • National Black Lawyers Top 40 Under 40 Black Lawyers in Illinois, 2025