Nathaniel “Nate” Bernard

Nathaniel “Nate” Bernard is the Principal Attorney at Bernard Law in Chicago, where he represents clients in criminal defense, DUI defense, and selected personal injury matters. His criminal work includes gun charges, drug offenses, assault and battery, domestic battery, property crimes, traffic matters, and serious DUI allegations. He brings experience from prosecution and public defense, giving him practical insight into charging decisions, trial preparation, evidence, and courtroom strategy.

Nate earned a J.D. from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law after completing a Bachelor of Liberal Arts with a major in criminal justice at the University of Massachusetts Boston. During law school, he competed in trial advocacy competitions around the United States and received multiple awards. His education and advocacy training support a practice centered on courtroom preparation, evidence review, client counseling, and practical criminal defense strategy.

Nate previously served as a prosecutor with the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, where he tried hundreds of matters involving felonies, DUIs, misdemeanors, and jury trials. He worked for the Cook County Public Defender’s Office, representing people accused of felonies, misdemeanors, and DUIs. Beyond criminal law, he has litigated civil claims against municipalities, corporations, and private individuals and has handled personal injury matters involving accidents and serious injuries.

Nathaniel “Nate” Bernard is admitted in Illinois and before the US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois. His combined experience as a prosecutor, public defender, and private attorney provides a broad view of criminal cases from investigation through trial. He focuses on protecting constitutional rights, evaluating the State’s evidence, preparing cases for negotiation or trial, and giving clients direct guidance during high-stakes legal problems.

Law Office Affiliations

• Principal, Bernard Law
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois

Education

• University of Illinois Chicago School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Massachusetts Boston
  Bachelor of Liberal Arts with a major in Criminal Justice

Awards & Badges