The Law Offices of Parente & Norem is proud to welcome partner Peter Higgins Jr. (“Pete”) to the firm. Pete brings a unique blend of legal training, real-world experience, and people first advocacy that aligns with Parente & Norem’s long standing commitment to protecting injured individuals and working families throughout Chicago and Illinois.
Pete earned his Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law in May 2021. He passed the Illinois Bar Exam in July of that year and was sworn in as an Illinois attorney in November 2021. Prior to law school, Pete received his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Iowa in 2009.
What sets Pete apart is the depth and diversity of experience he brings to his legal practice. Between graduating from Iowa and becoming a licensed attorney, Pete built a strong foundation rooted in service, discipline, and adaptability. He spent four years teaching special education students in Chicago Public Schools, an experience that sharpened his patience, empathy, and ability to advocate for those who need it most. During that same time, Pete worked nights, weekends, and summers at the Wrigley Field Rooftops.
Pete’s background also includes an unconventional, but highly valuable chapter: performing and writing comedy at the world famous Second City. There, he honed his ability to think quickly on his feet, communicate clearly under pressure, and connect with people; skills that translate directly into effective tools in negotiations, depositions, and the courtroom.
While attending DePaul Law, Pete worked as a law clerk at three respected Chicago personal injury law firms, most recently Peter Higgins Law (PHL). In that role, he assisted with trial preparation, discovery, and drafted numerous legal memoranda and briefs. Notably, Pete authored a brief that proved instrumental in winning an appeal before the Illinois Appellate Court, First District, demonstrating both his legal writing skill and his ability to contribute meaningfully to complex litigation.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Pete remains deeply committed to giving back to the community. He volunteers at Misericordia Home, a residential community providing care to more than 600 children and adults with mild to profound developmental disabilities, many of whom are physically challenged. His volunteer work reflects the same compassion and service oriented mindset that defines his approach to practicing law.
Pete is an active member of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association, the Chicago Bar Association, and the Illinois State Bar Association.
Pete’s background, work ethic, and values make him an excellent fit for Parente & Norem. He understands people, he understands hard work, and he understands what it means to stand up for others when it matters most.
Parente & Norem is excited to have Pete Higgins join the team and look forward to the experience, dedication, and proven results he brings to serving clients across Chicago and throughout Illinois.
Please join us in welcoming partner Pete Higgins to Parente & Norem!
