Deja΄ Bryant is an associate attorney in the Professional Liability Practice Group in Tressler’s Chicago, Illinois, office. Deja΄ has experience representing a diverse range of clients, including corporations, municipalities, and individuals. With a strong background in insurance defense, Deja΄ brings valuable and extensive experience to her practice.

Deja΄ earned her B.A. degrees in Criminology and Sociology from Pennsylvania State University and her J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law.

Where are you from?

I was born in Chicago, IL. However, I was raised in Naperville, IL. After high school, I lived in Pennsylvania for a decade before returning home to the Windy City.

What was your first job?

I have worked most of my life, beginning when I was approximately nine years old, working for my mother at the North Central College bookstore. Since then, I have held a variety of positions from a hostess at Giordano’s to a pet specialist at PetSmart. My first job in adulthood was as an honors intern with the Federal Bureau of Investigation. I originally began working at the Washington, D.C., headquarters on the Security team. Shortly thereafter, I began working at the State College, PA field office in the Cyber Crimes unit. Afterward, I transferred to the Chicago, IL office to work with the Weapons of Mass Destruction and SWAT units. My last location was the Pittsburgh, PA field office.

Do you have any hidden talents and/or unique hobbies?

I am a foodie who loves to travel to new countries and experience their culture. I also thoroughly enjoy watching and participating in sports in my free time. Lastly, I really enjoy cooking and baking for my friends. I prefer to cook new recipes that I find online! Sometimes that is a good thing; sometimes that is a bad thing – that is the beauty of it.

Why did you decide to become an attorney?

I felt drawn to become an attorney because throughout my life, I have witnessed disadvantaged people’s lack of meaningful access to judicial resources, whether the matter was civil or criminal. My drive to become an attorney was for myself, but most importantly, I wanted to become an advocate for those who may not otherwise have an opportunity to have one in and out of the courtroom. I wanted to become an attorney for my community.

What are you most proud of, professionally and/or personally?

I am proud of the fact that I am the first in my family to graduate from college and did so as a member of the honors college at Penn State. Further, I was the first to attend law school. As a first-generation student, you face numerous obstacles both professionally and personally. There is immense gratitude that overcomes you once you break all the glass ceilings above you. I feel honored to be able to do what I always dreamed of.

What does a typical workday look like for you?

No two days are the same, but my commute always is! I usually start every day by going through my email. After which, if I am going in-office, I travel an hour and a half to the office via the Metra, which is always entertaining in one way or another. Upon arrival at the office or if I am working from home, I need coffee to conquer the day. From that point, I turn on my true crime podcasts and start drafting, preparing for a hearing, or doing one of the many other tasks required for the day.

Why did you choose your areas of practice?

Before coming to Tressler, I worked at another firm in Pennsylvania. While I was at that firm, I worked in numerous practice areas. However, I felt drawn to insurance defense because every case was different; there is never an opportunity to get bored. I enjoy challenging myself to find solutions to the unique problems presented as an insurance defense attorney, whether the issue pertains to coverage or litigation.

What is on your bucket list?

I have always wanted to take a cross-country road trip. As previously stated, I enjoy traveling, and I have a newfound love for RVs! Thus, I would love to take a cross-country road trip with my family.

What do you like most about Tressler?

My utmost favorite part of Tressler is the community. As previously mentioned, I am a sports fanatic. Therefore, I thrive in an environment that is collaborative but also allows me to develop independently. Tressler is just that. I believe it is a rarity to find a place that allows you to be an individual and also a member of a team.

What area of law or type of legal work are you most passionate about, and what makes it especially meaningful to you?

I am very passionate about completing pro bono work. I prefer to complete pro bono work in communities that lack access to judicial resources. When I am able to work pro bono, it refills my cup every time. It is when I truly feel the most appreciated and allows me to make a meaningful impact on my community. Prior to becoming an attorney, I used to create holiday baskets for victims of domestic violence, participate in food drives, volunteer at animal shelters and many other things. Since becoming an attorney, I have completed pro bono work for those facing eviction and attended various legal clinics in Pennsylvania and Illinois. I feel a strong duty to share my knowledge and experience to aid others.

Deja΄ Bryant can be reached at dbryant@tresslerllp.com.