Juan with his mentor the late Congressman and Civil Rights icon, John Lewis.
Because of Juan’s community service and bar leadership, he has been hailed as a national leader in the legal profession. Some of his recognitions have included:
- Member, American Law Institute, (Selected in July 2024)
- Illinois State Bar Association, Presidential Commendation Award for his contributions to improving inclusiveness and equity in the legal profession at the national and state level. (May 2024)
- American Bar Association, Spirit of Excellence Award, presented to lawyers who excel in their professional settings; who personify excellence on the national and international level; and who have demonstrated a commitment to racial and ethnic diversity in the legal profession. (February 2024)
- Chicago Defender, Men of Excellence Honoree (2023)
- American Constitution Society, Lawyer of the Month (June 2020)
- Katie Holmes Educational Foundation, Public Service Award for Leadership & Service in the Legal Community (2018)
- Cook County Bar Association, J. Ernest Wilkins Award (2018)
- The National Black Lawyers: Top 100 (2015)
- National Bar Association, Presidential Service Award (2005, 2007, 2009, 2013, 2016, 2024)
- American Bar Association Solo & Small Firm Section, Solo Practitioner of Merit Award (2005)
- National Bar Association, Young Lawyers Division, Outstanding Division of the Year (Chair Year, 2004)
- Fellow, Harvard Divinity School Summer Leadership Institute (2004)
- Fellow, Leadership Greater Chicago (2002)
- Ebony Magazine, 30 Under 30 Leaders to Watch (2001)
- Chicago Sun-Times, Future Leader to Watch in the 21st Century (1999)