Much congratulates Sheryl Jaffee Halpern and Courtney Mayster, who were honored as 2026 Notable Women in Law by Crain’s Chicago Business. Halpern and Mayster were recognized among top Chicagoland attorneys for their accomplishments in leadership over the past 18 months.
Now in her fifth year on Much’s Management Committee, Halpern plays a central role in charting the firm’s strategic growth, championing initiatives that are consistently aligned with Much’s people-first philosophy. After chairing the firm’s Labor & Employment group for 11 years, Halpern continues to advise clients on virtually every type of employment decision. Her profile in Crain’s highlights her role as Much’s HR counsel, her success with long-standing clients, and her creation of Power Rainmakers NFP, an annual event that empowers women attorneys in the United States and Canada.
Mayster is in her third year leading Much’s 160+ attorneys and staff as the firm’s Managing Partner. After chairing Much’s Real Estate group for nearly a decade, she maintains an active legal practice, helping clients navigate complex transactions involving commercial, industrial, and multifamily properties. Mayster’s profile in Crain’s highlights her real estate work, including her representation of Cinespace Film Studios in its sale to TPG Real Estate Partners. It also covers her work with No Shame On U, an organization supporting efforts to address mental health stigma in the workplace and community.
View the full list of 2026 Notable Women in Law profiles in Crain’s Chicago Business.