Michael Best is pleased to announce the addition of Virginia (Ginny) Cronin as Senior Counsel in the firm’s Labor & Employment practice group. Ginny brings with her a wealth of experience in advising faith-based and nonprofit organizations to the firm’s Chicago office.
Cronin’s practice is centered on providing comprehensive legal counsel to churches, ministries, and other mission-driven entities. Her unique perspective as a former nonprofit executive director allows her to offer both strategic legal guidance and practical operational insight, making her a trusted advisor to clients navigating complex challenges.
“We are thrilled to welcome Ginny to our team,” said Brian Paul, Chair of Michael Best’s Labor & Employment Practice Group. “Her deep understanding of the faith-based sector and her hands-on leadership experience will be a tremendous asset to our clients. We look forward to the impact she will make within our Labor & Employment group and beyond.”
Her legal work spans the full lifecycle of nonprofit operations, with a particular focus on employment matters, religious liberty, contract negotiations, donation-related issues, and crisis response. Prior to joining Michael Best, Cronin was an attorney at a Minnesota-based law firm where she led the Employment Law practice group. In that role, she oversaw intricate investigations into misconduct and fiduciary breaches, and supported organizations through sensitive crises involving abuse, financial irregularities, and public scrutiny.
Cronin has also played a key role in guiding faith-based clients through denominational transitions, ministry mergers, and the development of customized governance protocols. Her work has consistently reflected a deep commitment to preserving the mission and integrity of the organizations she serves.
“Ginny’s extensive experience in providing counsel to faith-based organizations and her dedication to serving mission-driven entities will be invaluable to our clients,” added James Forrest, Managing Partner, North Carolina and National Industry Group Leader of Michael Best’s Faith-Based Practice. “Her expertise will continue to enhance Michael Best’s ability to provide specialized legal services to the faith-based community.”
In addition to her legal practice, Cronin is a frequent speaker and educator for nonprofit and ministry leaders across the country, sharing her insights on governance, compliance, and religious freedom.
Cronin earned a J.D. from William Mitchell College of Law, B.A. in American Studies from the University of Iowa, and B.S. in History from Iowa State University.