Sheila McNulty

Biography

Sheila McNulty is a Partner with Kriezelman Burton & Associates, LLC. Born with a natural inclination for justice, Sheila pursued a legal education, earning a law degree that would serve as the foundation for a career marked by tireless dedication to the law. Throughout her early years, she demonstrated a profound respect for the principles of fairness, advocating for the rights of individuals and standing firmly on the side of the underrepresented.

In 1991, Sheila began her journey with the Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS), where she served as a Trial Attorney for nearly a decade. In this role, she worked on complex immigration cases, honing skills in legal argumentation, case management, and procedural intricacies. It was here where she developed a profound understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants and the legal complexities of U.S. immigration law, which would shape the remainder of her career.

Building upon her experience in immigration law, Sheila transitioned to a role as Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Northern District of Illinois in 2000. During this time, she managed a variety of cases involving both criminal and immigration law, strengthening her expertise in federal legal proceedings. Her work in this high-stakes environment further cultivated her ability to navigate complex legal issues with precision and determination, earning her recognition as a fierce advocate for justice.

In 2010, Sheila was appointed as an Immigration Judge at the Chicago Immigration Court, where she presided over a wide array of immigration cases. Her tenure at the court was marked by a steadfast commitment to applying the law fairly and equitably. She earned the respect of her peers and the legal community through her ability to make tough decisions with compassion, always keeping in mind the human side of immigration proceedings.

In November 2015, she was promoted to Assistant Chief Immigration Judge, a role in which she provided leadership and oversight in the administration of immigration court cases. In this capacity, Sheila was instrumental in managing judicial functions and improving the efficiency and fairness of immigration proceedings across the country. Her leadership and dedication to ensuring justice for all were evident in every decision made and in her continuous efforts to improve the judicial process for immigrants seeking relief in the United States.

In March 2021, Sheila was appointed Regional Deputy Chief Immigration Judge, further expanding her influence and impact on the national immigration system. In this role, she took on even greater responsibilities, overseeing multiple immigration courts and working with judges across the region to maintain consistency in rulings and ensure that cases were handled with the highest degree of professionalism and fairness.

In April 2023, Sheila was appointed Chief Immigration Judge, a prestigious position that placed her at the forefront of the U.S. immigration system. As the Chief Immigration Judge, she managed the nation’s immigration courts, overseeing the adjudication of cases that impact the lives of individuals from around the globe. Under her leadership, the immigration courts became more efficient, with a strong emphasis on fairness, transparency, and the protection of due process rights. Her ability to lead by example and her unwavering commitment to justice made her a pivotal figure in shaping the future of U.S. immigration law.

Throughout her career, Sheila has earned a reputation not only for her legal expertise but also for her deep compassion for the people affected by immigration law. Her work has influenced policy, shaped legal precedents, and provided a voice for those seeking justice in the face of complex immigration issues. Known for her dedication to fairness, Sheila has become a trusted figure in the legal community, always striving to create a legal environment that is just and equitable for all.

Now, as an attorney in private practice, Sheila continues to inspire future generations of lawyers, advocates, and judges with her commitment to justice and the law. Her legacy of service is a testament to her lifelong dedication to ensuring that the principles of justice, fairness, and equality are upheld in every case she touches.