Early Life and Formative Years

Robert "Bob" Bodach, a committed attorney and a third-generation legal professional from Will County, continues the tradition of his father and grandfathers. Bob spent his early years in Lockport, actively participating in Boy Scout Troop 61 and the Lockport Park District swim team. After graduating from Joliet Catholic High School in 1989, he pursued his higher education at Illinois Wesleyan University, where he obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Business with an accounting major.

Post-Graduation and Professional Start

Post-college, Bob returned to Joliet and worked full-time at First National Bank of Joliet, now Harris Bank. He simultaneously pursued his Masters of Business Administration at the University of St. Francis, completing it in 1998. Following this, Bob accepted a position at Grant's Appliance, TV and Audio, working in various capacities including Controller. His experience at Grant's underscored the importance of attentive customer service, a principle that later became the foundation of his legal work ethic.

Law School and Early Legal Career

In 2003, Bob made the decisive step to follow in his family's footsteps and enrolled in the Southern Illinois University School of Law. During law school, he worked at the Jackson County State's Attorney's office, gaining practical experience by prosecuting cases and advocating for clients' Social Security/Disability rights at the Land of Lincoln Legal Assistance Foundation. He also served as Treasurer of the Phi Alpha Delta legal fraternity and developed a keen interest in Trial Advocacy.

Professional Development

Bob began his law career in earnest at the Will County Public Defender’s office in 2006. His competence and dedication led to his promotion to the felony division in 2010, where he represented clients charged with serious offenses such as drug offenses, sex offenses, DUI, battery, and murder. In this high-volume environment, Bob exhibited his courtroom prowess, taking over 40 cases to trial.

Current Role and Personal Life

Today, Bob is a Director of the Will County Bar Association and an active member of the Bar Association’s Criminal Law Committee. He also serves as a Director of the JCA/JCHS/SFA/DLS Alumni Board for his alma mater, Joliet Catholic High School. When not in the courtroom, Bob enjoys a variety of outdoor activities, particularly winter sports, and has completed multiple half-marathon cross-country ski races at the North American Birkebeiner in Hayward, WI. Bob is married to Tracy Caswell, and they reside in Shorewood, IL.

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