Sarah L. Merkatoris

At Glasgow & Olsson, we don’t just practice law—we redefine it by bringing fresh perspectives to longstanding legal challenges, backed by decades of courtroom success and a sterling reputation in the legal community. Sarah L. Merkatoris is a prime example of this philosophy in action. As an enthusiastic and forward-thinking attorney, she brings sharp analytical skills, innovative problem-solving strategies, and a relentless commitment to client success in the fields of criminal and family law.

A Fresh Perspective, Grounded in Experience

Ms. Merkatoris joined Glasgow & Olsson in 2023, adding her strategic insight and fresh legal approach to a firm known for its history of excellence in litigation and negotiation. Her experience in criminal defense, family law, and civil litigation enables her to craft creative, results-driven legal strategies that anticipate challenges and deliver real solutions for her clients.

Before earning her Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law in 2022, Ms. Merkatoris built a career in supply chain management, mastering the art of high-stakes negotiation and strategic planning—skills she now applies in complex legal disputes. Her background allows her to analyze cases through a broader, more strategic lens, ensuring that clients benefit from legal representation that is both innovative and deeply informed by real-world complexities.

At DePaul, Ms. Merkatoris excelled academically, ranking in the top 25% of her class, earning multiple CALI Awards for Federal Income Taxation, Corporate Taxation, and Negotiations, and serving in key leadership roles as Business Manager for the DePaul Law Review and Director of Communications for the Public Interest Law Association.

Bridging Traditional Legal Excellence with Modern Solutions

Prior to joining Glasgow & Olsson, Ms. Merkatoris honed her legal skills as an associate attorney at a respected general practice firm, where she handled local prosecutions, civil disputes, and administrative appeals. She has negotiated criminal plea agreements, litigated high-conflict cases, and navigated complex legal procedures with precision and strategic insight.

Her expertise extends beyond the courtroom. With a Certificate in Healthcare Compliance, she offers specialized legal knowledge in healthcare regulations, professional licensing, and administrative law, making her a valuable resource for clients navigating compliance-related challenges.

Why Clients Choose Sarah L. Merkatoris

✔ Innovative legal strategies that challenge conventional approaches

✔ Respected by the legal community for her analytical precision and negotiation skills

✔ Part of a powerhouse firm known for trial success and strong professional relationships

✔ Deep understanding of both legal theory and real-world applications

✔ Committed to providing clients with clarity, advocacy, and results

Education & Academic Excellence

DePaul University College of Law, Chicago, Illinois

• Juris Doctor – Certificate in Healthcare Compliance (2022)

• Honors: Dean’s List, CALI Awards in Federal Income Taxation, Corporate Taxation, and Negotiations

• Leadership Roles:

• Law Review – Business Manager

• Public Interest Law Association – Director of Communications

• Teaching Assistant – Legal Writing & Academic Success Programs

University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, Wisconsin

• Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Communications (2015)

• Honors: Graduated with Distinction in Rhetorical Studies & Communication Science

• Leadership Roles:

• Show Committee Chair, University of Wisconsin Equestrian Team

• Nationals Team Member (2015)

Legal Experience

• Associate Attorney – Glasgow & Olsson, Schaumburg, IL (2023–Present)

• Associate Attorney – Cowlin, Curran & Hazel, P.C., Crystal Lake, IL (2022–2023)

• Research Assistant – DePaul University Jaharis Health Law Institute (2021)

• Law Clerk – Noelle Brennan & Associates Ltd., Chicago, IL (2020)

Bar Admissions & Certifications

• Illinois Bar Admission (2022)

• Wisconsin Bar Admission (2023)

• Healthcare Compliance Certificate – Healthcare Compliance Association

Published Works & Thought Leadership

• Author, “Aggravated DUI,” Chapter 6, Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (2024–Present)

Professional Associations & Memberships

• American Bar Association

• Illinois Bar Association

• McHenry County Bar Association

• Cook County Bar Association

• DuPage County Bar Association

• Will County Bar Association

• Chicago Bar Association

• Illinois Association of Healthcare Attorneys

Community Engagement & Pro Bono Work

• Neighborhood Legal Assistance Project, Chicago, IL

A New Era of Legal Advocacy at Glasgow & Olsson

At Glasgow & Olsson, we believe that the best legal representation comes from a combination of experience, creativity, and a reputation that commands respect. Ms. Merkatoris brings a fresh perspective to traditional legal challenges, backed by a firm with an established legacy of courtroom success.

If you want an attorney who challenges outdated legal strategies, approaches cases with a fresh, results-driven mindset, and is backed by one of the most respected law firms in the region, contact Glasgow & Olsson at 847.577.8700 today.