LEADERSHIP IN LAW 2023: Shontrai Irving

Purdue University Northwest
Indiana University Maurer School of Law, 2003

Why did you decide to enter the legal profession?

I entered the legal profession in an effort to make a difference in society. As a child, I always felt a connection to human rights and viewed the law as a means to fight for the disenfranchised and voiceless. My desire to practice law grew from my position as a Governor’s Fellow as I interacted with many changemakers in government who studied law and encouraged me to do the same.

Who is someone who has inspired you in your career?

The people who have truly inspired me in my legal career are the young leaders of the civil rights movement and other youth who have changed the world. The impact that children make is often overlooked and should be honored and featured more in the media. Young people such as the Little Rock Nine, as well as Ruby Bridges, were iconic civil rights leaders, and their efforts and influence should never be forgotten. I also think of the awareness that Ryan White brought to the world and the continued activism and leadership of Malala Yousafzai. I am moved by their courage and bravery. 

What makes a good lawyer/judge?

I have been fortunate to practice law in Lake County for two decades and have worked with many amazing judges and lawyers. The best in the profession are always prepared, think well on their feet, and have excellent presentation and advocacy skills. They also have emotional intelligence and both follow and know the law. Moreover, truly exceptional judges and lawyers help pave the way for others by mentoring younger lawyers and sharing their knowledge. Many of them are engaged in the local community and participate in bar activities, as well.

What is something you wish people knew about lawyers?

I would like people to know all the contributions that lawyers make outside the courtroom. Many serve on boards for nonprofit organizations and volunteer for community events. They are leaders in the community, and their civic involvement and engagement is not often featured or discussed.

Tell us about your work in foster care.

Serving as a foster and adoptive parent has been the most rewarding experience of my life. I’ve learned so much about myself and children as a whole. It truly hasn’t been an easy road, but it has been one filled with love, trust, sacrifice and unyielding support. I thank everyone who has supported my family on this journey and know that we couldn’t do it without you.

Do you have a secret talent?

My secret talent if someone doesn’t really know me is my sense of humor. I am always down for a good laugh.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

I have received wonderful advice over the years from both my family and friends. My mother and grandmother instilled in me how to keep things in perspective. I would be extremely disappointed about not reaching a goal and my mom would state, “If this is the worst thing that ever happened in your life, then you are a pretty lucky person.” I thank her for keeping me grounded. From both my father and paternal grandfather I learned the importance of service, as they both served in the military. From them, I gained insight into commitment, honor and loyalty. I have learned about acceptance and companionship from my friends.

How do you spend your free time?

Free time? Is there really such a thing? When I am not in the courtroom or the classroom, I am spending time with family, friends and members of the bar. I am always up for a movie or a sporting event. Additionally, I’m often working on a service project for the Lake County Bar Association, where I serve as chair of the Outreach Committee, among several other community events and activities.

What drew you to education, and what do you enjoy about working with students?

I have always believed in the power and impact of education. As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once stated, “The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character — that is the goal of true education.” Moreover, I truly enjoy teaching students and learning from them. They have really embraced me as a professor but also challenged my way of thinking on certain issues. The opportunity to work with the future leaders of tomorrow is both humbling and an honor.

If you hadn’t pursued a legal career, what would you be doing?

I would probably be a journalist or television news reporter. I would welcome the opportunity to inform the public about current events and issues. •

Read more Leadership in Law profiles.