Chicago Corporation Counsel Has Retired
Mary Richardson-Lowry is stepping down from her role as the city’s top attorney.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in People
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Mary Richardson-Lowry, the first Black woman to serve as Chicago corporation counsel, has officially retired from the position. The city announced that Renee Hatcher will succeed her in the role.
Why it matters
The change in legal leadership marks the latest transition in the municipal administration following a series of high-level departures throughout the year.
This transition follows four other significant executive departures from city government in 2026, including the resignations of the budget director and CFO.
The players
Mary Richardson-Lowry
She served as the corporation counsel for the city of Chicago and was the first Black woman to hold this position.
Renee Hatcher
She is a clinical professor and director of the Community Enterprise & Solidarity Economy Clinic at UIC Law who has been appointed to succeed Richardson-Lowry.
The details
Renee Hatcher, currently a clinical professor and director of the Community Enterprise & Solidarity Economy Clinic at UIC Law, will take over the legal department. Richardson-Lowry leaves behind a tenure defined by her historic status as the city's first Black woman to hold the counsel position.
Timeline
January 2026: Jill Jaworski resigned as Chief Financial Officer.
March 2026: Garien Gatewood was fired as Deputy Mayor of Community Safety.
May 2026: Dr. Olusimbo Ige resigned as health commissioner.
August 2026: Annette Guzman left her post as budget director.
September 22, 2026: The city announced the retirement of Mary Richardson-Lowry.
Market Landscape
This leadership change continues a trend of executive instability within Chicago city government observed throughout the 2026 calendar year. The appointment follows multiple resignations and terminations among the administration's top-tier roles.
Residents may see shifts in the city's legal strategy and regulatory approach as the new corporation counsel takes office. This change impacts how the city manages municipal litigation and legal policy moving forward.
The takeaway
The appointment of a new corporation counsel highlights the ongoing restructuring of leadership within the city administration. Residents should monitor upcoming policy announcements as the legal department undergoes this significant transition.
Further reading
For more information on local government leadership changes, visit the Chicago People section.
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