Brittany Flaherty Theis

Brittany Flaherty Theis

Brittany Flaherty Theis has built her career as a dedicated advocate in the realm of school law and related matters. With a focus on representing school districts and taxing bodies, she has demonstrated expertise in a multitude of legal areas, ranging from property tax disputes to board governance, administrative law, personnel matters, and more.

Brittany’s practice is marked by a keen understanding of property tax issues in Illinois. Her representation extends to various legal forums, including circuit courts, boards of review, and appellate courts. A significant milestone in her career was her involvement in mediating a billion-dollar property tax assessment dispute, showcasing her prowess in navigating complex legal terrain.

In property tax litigation, Brittany has been instrumental in litigating and negotiating settlements for diverse properties, from nuclear power plants to oil refineries.  She defended findings of Freedom of Information Act and Open Meetings Act violations, contributing to a successful appeal in the Fourth District of the Illinois Appellate Court.

Beyond property tax litigation, Brittany provides crucial counsel on school finance matters, including property tax levies, contracts, and bond financings. She is actively engaged in presenting seminars to administrators throughout Illinois, demonstrating her commitment to knowledge sharing in the legal community.

Brittany is dedicated to addressing matters related to student rights, responsibilities, and special education and has served as a hearing officer in student disciplinary hearings. Brittany has navigated policy matters for school district clients, showing a particular interest in evolving issues such as accommodations for transgender students, constitutional questions, school and internet safety, and social media.

Brittany’s journey into law was inspired by her parents’ commitment to public service. Her inherent strengths lie in research and written arguments, complemented by empathy and genuine care for clients, students, and staff. She finds fulfillment in advising clients and guiding them through challenging situations.

Beyond her legal endeavors, Brittany is involved in the Girl Scouts of Greater Chicago and Northwest Indiana. Her commitment to community service aligns with her upbringing in a family dedicated to public service. In her leisure time, Brittany finds joy in reading, outdoor activities, and her role as a Girl Scout leader, emphasizing a well-rounded and community-oriented approach to life with her husband and three daughters.

Education

• J.D., cum laude, The John Marshall Law School, Order of John Marshall
• B.S., summa cum laude, Bradley University

Admitted to Practice

• United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
• Supreme Court of Illinois

Organizations

• American Bar Association
• Illinois State Bar Association
• Kane County Bar Association
• DuPage County Bar Association
• National Council of School Attorneys
• Illinois Council of School Attorneys
• Illinois Association of School Business Officials
• Illinois Association of School Administrators

Recent Publications

• Contributing author, “Opening Your Mind to Closed Sessions,” UPDATE Magazine, Illinois ASBO (2024)
• Contributing author, “Who Ya Gonna Call? Knowing Your Legal Resources,” UPDATE Magazine, Illinois ASBO (2024)
• Contributing author, “Opening Your Mind to Closed Sessions,” UPDATE Magazine, Illinois ASBO (2024)

Recent Presentations

• The Role of Taxing Districts in Assessments, Illinois Property Assessment Institute Legal Symposium (September 2023) 
• Legal Standards for the Management of School Personnel, Illinois ASBO AAC #820 (June 2023)
• Legal Standards for the Management of School Personnel, IASB/IASA/IASBO Joint Annual Conference (May 2022)
• Property Tax Refund Recapture & Other Tax Related Laws, Illinois ASBO Annual Conference (May 2022)