Donald G. Wilkerson

Before entering private practice, Donald G. Wilkerson served as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Southern District of Illinois for eighteen years, including a term as Chief Magistrate Judge. His judicial tenure involved presiding over thousands of civil and criminal proceedings, conducting over 1,000 settlement conferences, and managing a diverse docket of complex federal litigation. Prior to his appointment to the bench, he served as an Assistant United States Attorney and worked in private practice focusing on civil litigation.

A highly seasoned former federal judge with nearly two decades of experience on the bench, specializing in the mediation and arbitration of complex commercial, employment, and civil rights matters.

Served as the first African American magistrate judge in the Southern District of Illinois and possesses extensive experience in resolving high-stakes federal civil rights and employment disputes.

Recognized by legal professionals for his patient, persistent, and fair approach to settlement, often successfully resolving cases that appeared intractable through his deep understanding of federal law and human dynamics.