Rincker Law PLLC is proud to share that our principal attorney, Cari Rincker, was recently featured in an in-depth attorney profile in the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) Rural Practice Section Newsletter. The profile, written by Sara Peska and Ean R. Albers, offers a detailed look into Cari’s career path, her return to rural Illinois, and her longstanding dedication to serving agriculture, food businesses, and family law clients across the state and country.
For those familiar with Cari’s work, the feature reinforces what many already know: she is a passionate advocate for farm families, an innovator in rural legal practice, and a steadfast voice in both agricultural and family law communities.
A Journey Rooted in Agriculture and Rural Life
Though Cari spent 10 pivotal years in New York City, her story begins and continues right here in Shelbyville, Illinois, where she both grew up and now practices law. Her early interest in agriculture led her to Texas A&M University’s College of Agriculture and Life Sciences and eventually to a policy internship on Capitol Hill.
It was there that the seed for a legal career was planted. Cari attended law school at Pace University (after transferring from Regent University School of Law) and became licensed in New Jersey in 2007 before later gaining admission to the Illinois Bar in 2025.
But even during her years practicing in Manhattan, rural communities and agricultural law remained her “north star.” Returning home to Illinois was ultimately driven by family and the desire to raise her children with the support, space, and sense of belonging that only a rural community can offer.
“My only regret is not doing it sooner,” Cari shared in her interview, an honest reflection on the peace and fulfillment she’s found in coming home.
Building a Rural-Focused Practice with National Reach
Cari’s practice, Rincker Law PLLC, is centered on what she calls Food, Farm, and Family—three pillars of rural life that also drive some of the most complex legal issues facing multi-generational farm families today.
Her work includes:
- Business planning and succession strategies for farm families
- High-net-worth farm divorces and mediation
- Estate planning, probate, and trust administration
- Real estate transactions and farm operations
- Trademarks and intellectual property for agricultural brands
- Legal counsel for start-ups, mergers, and transitions in the food/ag business sector
Her dual practice: local family law and national agriculture law creates a unique mix. While challenging, it positions Cari as one of the few attorneys capable of advising clients on both the personal and business aspects of farm life.
When Family Law “Finds You”
In the ISBA profile, Cari reflects on her early years practicing what she calls “Door Law”, taking whatever walked in the door. Her first divorce case marked a turning point, unlocking a passion for family law that has stayed with her throughout her career.
She believes family law is a calling:
“We help families navigate some of the most difficult transitions of their lives.”
Today, Cari is particularly known for her work in high-net-worth farm divorces, where she helps families preserve multi-generational operations despite the upheaval of divorce or separation. The insight she brings as someone raised on a farm is invaluable.
Championing Better Systems for Rural Practice
Throughout her career, Cari has pushed for improvements in legal processes that impact rural practitioners, including:
- Developing new case management orders
- Advocating for courts to provide rosters of skilled financial mediators
- Promoting virtual mediation
- Supporting AI integration into law practice
- Embracing post-pandemic Zoom hearings to minimize rural travel burdens
She notes that remote technology has been transformative for rural law, making it easier to practice across multiple counties and serve clients efficiently; something she believes young attorneys should fully embrace.
Accomplishments and Community Impact
Cari’s contributions have been widely recognized. Her Food & Agriculture Law Blog once made the Top 100 Blawg List, and she has been honored with:
- Excellence in Agriculture Law from the AALA
- Early Career Award from Texas A&M University
Her community involvement is equally impressive. She serves on a nonprofit board working to bring a daycare to Shelbyville, volunteers as general counsel for a junior college foundation, and acts as editor of the ISBA Agricultural Law Section Council Newsletter.
One of her most meaningful experiences was serving as commencement speaker at Lake Land College, a full-circle moment at her alma mater.
Looking Ahead: Innovation for 2026 and Beyond
Cari is now planning to launch a Fractional General Counsel subscription program for farms and agri-businesses—an innovative model designed to give agricultural operations consistent, ongoing legal support without the complexity of hiring a full-time attorney.
She also encourages rural lawyers to embrace technology and AI, using these tools to expand their services and build modern, sustainable practices.
A Message to Rural Attorneys and ISBA Members
Cari’s closing message in the ISBA profile was clear:
Get involved. Participate. Contribute.
Joining ISBA Section Councils, writing articles, serving on committees, and connecting with peers are all ways to strengthen both individual practices and the statewide rural legal community.
Congratulations, Cari!
Everyone at Rincker Law PLLC is proud to celebrate Cari’s feature in the ISBA Rural Practice Section Newsletter. Her leadership, dedication, and vision continue to elevate both our firm and the broader legal community in Illinois.
To learn more about Rincker Law PLLC or schedule a consultation, visit www.rinckerlaw.com or call (217) 774-1373.