Patricia Brown Holmes is a nationally recognized trial lawyer, crisis counselor, and Managing Partner of Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP, Best Firm Benchmark 2026. She focuses her practice on high-stakes commercial litigation, internal investigations, diversity audits, and risk, reputation, and crisis management counseling.

A former judge, federal prosecutor, and defense attorney, Holmes has practiced from every side of the courtroom. Prior to joining private practice, she served as an Associate Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, an Assistant United States Attorney, and an Assistant State’s Attorney. She is among the few Illinois attorneys with trial and appellate experience across municipal, state, federal, and supreme courts.

Known for her sound judgment, strategic thinking, and steady leadership, Holmes is frequently called upon to handle sensitive investigations, complex disputes, and “bet-the-company” matters. She also advises organizations facing critical business, legal, and reputational challenges, helping them assess risk, navigate crises, and emerge stronger.

In addition to her litigation practice, Holmes is a respected mediator and sought-after speaker on various topics. She has received numerous honors, including America’s Best-In-State Top Lawyers Award from Forbes, the ABA Diversity Leadership Award, the Justice John Paul Stevens Award, Chambers USA’s Diversity & Inclusion: Outstanding Contribution Award, Managing Partner of the Year from the African American Managing Partners & General Counsel Network, and recognition in Chambers USA, Best Lawyers in America®, Illinois Super Lawyers Top 100, and Top 50 Women.

Holmes serves as Co-Chair of the NFL Diversity Advisory Council, an inaugural member of the Chicago Bears Women’s Advisory Board, and a former member of the Executive Committee of the University of Illinois System Board of Trustees.