Nicole L. Karas
Education
- J.D., DePaul University College of Law, summa cum laude, Order of Coif
- B.A., Valparaiso University
Admissions
- Supreme Court of Illinois
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Seventh Circuit Considers a Firefighter’s First Amendment Right to Post Offensive Content on Facebook
On July 16, 2026, the Seventh Circuit affirmed the termination of a Chicago firefighter over offensive Facebook posts, offering key guidance for public employers on regulating employee social media under the First Amendment.
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Federal Court Invalidates Illinois Tuition and State Aid Provisions for Undocumented Students
On July 24, 2026, a federal court ruled key Illinois statutes granting in-state tuition and aid to non-citizen students unconstitutional and preempted by federal law. The ruling is stayed until August 7, 2026, pending a possible appeal.
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Get to Know Niki!
Niki is an experienced trial lawyer who defends government officials and governmental entities against civil rights, employment, and tort claims, including municipal entities, school districts, police departments, and park districts.
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Governor Signs Extension of School District Interfund Transfer Authority Through 2029
Governor Pritzker has signed a new law extending school districts’ interfund transfer authority, but the procedural requirements haven’t changed. Find out what districts need to do to stay compliant through 2029.
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The Scoop @ Robbins Schwartz – July Edition
We’re excited to share what’s been happening this month at Robbins Schwartz! Read more in our latest edition of The Scoop @ Robbins Schwartz.
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Tenured Teacher Remediation Warnings Now Subject to Arbitration
A new Illinois law is reshaping how school districts issue remediation warnings to tenured teachers. Public Act 104-0647, effective immediately, gives teachers a right to respond before a warning is approved and for the first time allows warnings to be challenged through binding arbitration. Here’s what districts need to know.