OUR TEAM
We are a diverse mix of people with a range of skills and experiences, but we have one common goal: helping people get a second chance at their life goals. Whether speaking to a new client or an alum, we listen and support, offering our utmost professionalism and confidentiality.
Stephen R. Miller
President/Managing Attorney
As a 40+ year jury trial specialist, Stephen litigated a broad range of civil matters before judges and juries in state and federal court. He’s highly skilled at preparing clients for court and helping them present themselves openly and honestly to the judge. During his years with Coalition Legal, he’s built a rapport with the courtroom staff who often refer pro se clients to our team.
Julie Mangurten Weinberg
Interim Executive Director
With a background in journalism and the nonprofit world, Julie brings a natural curiosity about others and a desire to help people improve their lives. She handles all things not legal at Coalition Legal and enjoys interacting with clients, hearing and sharing their stories, and celebrating their successes.
Daniel S. Kaplan
Staff Attorney
A seasoned litigator with 30+ years practicing franchise law, Dan handles expungements, motions to reconsider, healthcare waivers, and driver’s license and professional license reinstatements. He works one-on-one with clients and appears in court regularly while providing his meticulous and steady legal expertise and counsel to the organization.
Judge David Brodsky (ret.)
Staff Attorney
Judge Brodsky retired from the 19th Judicial Circuit Court of Lake County in January 2023 after a 16-year judicial career where he presided in the Civil, Family, and Criminal divisions. Previously, he spent 10 years as the Public Defender of Lake County and now handles expungement cases for Coalition Legal.
Roxana Tellez Alvey
Exec. Admin. Asst./Outreach Specialist
As the first point of contact for most clients, Roxana introduces individuals to Coalition Legal and then handles a mountain of documents including petitions, notices to arresting agencies, and orders to seal and expunge. She is deeply committed to reducing recidivism through impactful legal aid and community outreach.
Kathryn M. Vanden Berk
Legal Founder & Of Counsel
Kathryn dedicated her 40+ year legal career to strengthening nonprofit organizations through expert counsel. She transformed Coalition Legal from a legal aid clinic run by non-attorneys to a professional law practice and developed a system that remains in place, allowing our organization to meet the growing demand for restorative justice.
OUR BOARD
Marc L. Jones
Board Chair
As the Waukegan Township Supervisor and a lifelong resident of Waukegan, Marc has dedicated himself to public service in the community. He’s held practically every position within the Township office and previously served two terms as President of the Waukegan Park District Board of Commissioners.
Gina Roberts
Board Treasurer
Born and raised in Lake County, Gina represents District 4 as a Lake County Board Commissioner. She is also the vice president of Lake County Democratic Women. In addition to her community service and leadership, she is well known for her delicious and beautiful charcuterie platters!
Camille Threats
Board Secretary
As Senior Corporate Counsel for Zurich North America, Camille brings critical thinking and problem solving to Coalition Legal. She’s a graduate of North Chicago High School, has deep ties to the community, and is passionate about supporting pro bono services for the less fortunate.
Eugene “Ace” Banks
Director
Born and raised in Waukegan, Ace owns Da Tee Shirt Shop and works as an actor, artist, and community leader. A prime example of how to improve your situation, he received Waukegan’s 2024 Repatriate of the Year Award and the 2016 Reduce Recidivism Award. Ace has appeared on NBC’s Chicago P.D. and is featured in the 2026 movie, $Positions.
Richard C. Daniels
Director
A 30+ year career attorney, Rick founded the law firm of Daniels, Long & Pinsel and previously worked as a Senior Felony Trial Attorney with the Lake County Public Defender’s Office. A Lake County resident, he is deeply devoted to the social concerns of the community.
Diana Garcia
Director
With 20+ years of experience in human resources and employee benefits, Diana owns and operates the Northbrook franchise office of Express Employment Professionals. Earlier in her career, she advised global fortune 500 companies on their employment benefits programs. A Waukegan native, she donates her time and talents to a number of local organizations.
Michael J. Perillo, Jr.
Director
A retired attorney who spent 30+ years practicing law in Lake County, Michael specialized in personal injury and plaintiff’s nursing home negligence. He began his career as an active-duty JAG Officer in the U.S. Navy and later served as Senior Assistant in both the Lake County Public Defender’s Office and the Office of the Lake County State’s Attorney.
Jed Stone
Director
Considered one of the nation’s leading criminal defense attorneys, Jed has been practicing law for 40+ years and is the founder of Stone & Associates. He hates prisons and how the broken justice system chews people up and spits them out. He also believes that no one should be judged by the worst five minutes of their life.
Lucy Torres
Director
As the owner and operator of Express Employment Professionals’ Waukegan office, Lucy has spent more than 20 years in recruiting and staffing. She is passionate about helping companies find solutions for their staffing needs while also volunteering her time throughout the community.
