MacGillis takes pride in helping others

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Christopher MacGillis feels lucky for what he gets to do every day – helping those injured in accidents.

“You’re working with people who are at a very stressful time in their lives and you’re trying to help them get through it,” said MacGillis, founder and partner at MacGillis Wiemer in Wauwatosa. “It’s always been important for me to help others, and I take pride that I can do that with my work.”

In his practice, MacGillis represents several police and fire unions across Wisconsin, as well as officers and firefighters who are injured. He also works pro bono with several police and fire unions on matters concerning safety, disability and work injuries.

“It’s a great feeling to help people whose job it is to help others in our community,” MacGillis said. “It’s a privilege to work with such great people and help through a difficult time in their lives.”

MacGillis has tried cases in state and federal court that helped shape various laws, including those involving open records and privacy rights.

Graham Wiemer, MacGillis’ partner at the law firm, praised his efforts on behalf of his clients.

“Chris has made a big impact on his clients and the legal community,” he said. “He’s demonstrated himself as a leader in his legal and social community.”

Besides his busy practice, MacGillis serves as vice chair of the Office of Lawyer Regulation District 2 Committee. He meets with the OLR to deal with grievances, helps lead monthly meetings and assists investigators with their reports.

“As lawyers, I think it’s important to serve the community and our clients, and the OLR allows me to do that,” MacGillis said. “I’ve worked hard with the OLR to ensure communities have honest, fair and responsible practitioners, as well as preserve the reputation of lawyers generally with those outside of the legal community.”

MacGillis also gives back through a scholarship program at his alma mater, Pius XI High School. As part of the program, two students receive a tuition scholarship and get the opportunity to be interns at MacGillis Wiemer and shadow lawyers and staff members at the firm.