James Lowell Komie

Several years ago, I learned federal labor agents were looking to talk to me about embezzlement of union funds. I asked my son what should I do? He said get the best damn federal lawyer you can get your hands on. I called Stephen Komie. His staff immediately took me in and made me feel at home. H...e coached me on how not to leave society. He took me for an interview with federal agents where he took control of the room. He won over the Department of Labor agent and coached me into a one-count Information with probation eligible. I knew he had communicated well with the judge when he asked for permission for me to travel to Indiana to buy my gas. He understood the culture of the south side of Chicago and the judge. He guided my every step through the Probation Department. He talked the probation officer out of recommending a harsh sentence. His performance at my sentencing hearing was masterful. He persuaded the judge to give me a probationary sentence despite the government's demands for two years in the penitentiary. He even convinced the judge that I should keep my job and pension while donating 200 hours of community service divided between Operation Push and the Pacific Garden Mission. He dominated the room. He had the judge giggling during the sentencing hearing which gave me great comfort knowing that the case was going in the right direction. He even was able to describe my life and times in a way which caused tears to come to my eyes knowing that he really had my best interest at heart. If the feds are going to fry you up, you better get Mr. Komie to turn off the fryolator. I can't say enough of Mr. Komie walking me through what was clearly uncharted territory. 23 Psalm Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil for thou art with me. It was the earthly feeling of that. As I walked this journey to McGee's office to the U.S. Attorney's office and two trips into federal court there was a comfort there. There is no other way for me to describe it as a comfort. Thank you, Mr. Komie.