Kate Carter | Peoria, IL

Seeing government work first-hand during college inspired Kate Carter’s career. As a partner at Miller, Hall & Triggs, LLC, she supports local governments and public entities as part of her law practice.

Growing up, Kate couldn’t quite decide between becoming a vet, an astronaut or a politician. But her grandfather’s involvement in West Peoria’s government and career at a lobbying firm tipped the scales to further develop her love for politics.

After attending Richwoods High School, Carter participated in student government while earning a B.A. in Political Science at Marquette University. Carter returned to Peoria and served as a substitute teacher’s aide in Washington Schools before attending Michigan State University College of Law. During her studies, she spent a semester in Washington, D.C. and was deeply impacted by the exceptional people she met.

After graduating, Carter returned to Peoria to start her career as an associate attorney at Quinn, Johnston. She moved to Miller, Hall & Triggs in 2016 and became a partner in 2021.

Carter lists Dennis Triggs, one of the four attorneys who formed the law firm, as a person who inspires her. “I admire his relentless commitment to the local community, as well as his ability to teach, lead and genuinely connect with people.”

According to nominator Cara Burritt, Carter is a force of nature herself. “Kate Carter strengthens our community through her legal expertise, civic leadership and commitment to service. Beyond her legal practice, Kate actively contributes to nonprofit organizations and legal aid initiatives ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to justice and support. Her thoughtful approach to both professional and volunteer work reflects an investment in the progress and wellbeing of our community.”

Carter balances the challenge of working as an attorney and being a wife and busy mother of two young kids by focusing on the many blessings, positive experiences and outcomes of each of her roles. “It is a challenge being pulled in different directions, but each direction is rewarding in different ways.”

Child-focused organizations occupy Kate’s volunteer time. She serves as the Director and Board Secretary of FamilyCore which offers support for single parent families, adoption services, counseling, foster care and other outreach programs. Carter emphasizes, “Pouring into our youth and families is so foundational not only for the individuals affected, but also the community.”

Kate is married to her high school sweetheart, Matt, and together they are raising their two kids, Olivia (7) and Jack (3), “who are absolute joys.”