Influential Women names Kimberlee Jones among 2026 Illinois honorees

Kimberlee Jones, JD/MBA, was named one of the Influential Women representing Illinois for 2026, recognizing her work in intellectual property, business strategy and legal leadership. The Chicago attorney leads Jones Legal Advisors and also teaches at Chicago-Kent College of Law, advising clients on how to protect and grow the value of their ideas.

Why it matters: - Kimberlee Jones’ recognition spotlights the growing business value of intellectual property strategy, especially for startups and established companies trying to protect innovation and turn ideas into revenue. - The honor also underscores the influence of women leaders working across law, technology, business strategy and community service.

What happened: - Influential Women named Kimberlee Jones one of its Illinois representatives for 2026. - Jones is the Managing Attorney and founder of Jones Legal Advisors in Chicago. - Jones Legal Advisors focuses on intellectual property law, corporate counsel, commercial real estate, and business and IP strategy. - Jones is a registered patent attorney with more than two decades of experience.

The details: - Jones has advised startups, entrepreneurs, and Fortune 100 and 500 companies on intellectual property and business strategy. - Her practice covers patents, trademarks, copyrights, licensing, data privacy, risk management, compliance, and competitive intelligence. - Jones has also worked as a consultant, analyst and strategic advisor across consumer products, pharmaceuticals, energy and technology. - Jones serves as an adjunct professor at Chicago-Kent College of Law. - Her teaching and mentorship focus on helping future lawyers navigate a more complex legal and business environment. - Jones originally planned to become a doctor before shifting to law and intellectual property. - She describes that career pivot as one of the best decisions of her life. - Jones supports charitable organizations through board service and volunteer work tied to multiple sclerosis, single fathers, and food insecurity. - The Influential Women profile for Kimberlee Jones is available here.

Between the lines: - Jones’ career reflects a legal market that increasingly rewards attorneys who can connect IP protection with commercial growth, not just legal compliance. - Her focus on artificial intelligence and representation in intellectual property suggests she sees the field moving toward new technology and broader access. - The recognition also frames service and mentorship as part of professional credibility, not separate from it.

What's next: - Jones is expected to continue advising businesses and innovators as intellectual property, technology and strategy become even more intertwined. - Her teaching, mentorship and community work are likely to remain part of her broader leadership platform. - The Influential Women profile may expand her visibility among entrepreneurs, legal peers and organizations seeking IP guidance.