Teris N. Swanson is an accomplished attorney at Whitlow, Roberts, Houston & Straub, PLLC, serving clients across Western Kentucky and Southern Illinois. With a strong background in personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, Social Security disability, and real estate law, Teris brings a broad, client-focused approach to each case.

Prior to joining the firm in 2025, Teris served as Judge/Executive of Livingston County, Kentucky, where she gained valuable insight into public administration, legal compliance, and community advocacy. Her experience as both a public official and practicing attorney uniquely positions her to understand and address the legal needs of individuals, families, and businesses throughout the region.

Practice Areas & Services:

• Personal Injury
• Criminal Defense
• Social Security Disability Law
• Estate Planning & Administration
• Real Estate Law
• Insurance Defense
• General Litigation

Legal Background & Professional Experience:

Personal Injury & Accident Claims

Teris advocates for individuals who have been injured due to auto accidents, slip and falls, and other incidents caused by negligence. She helps clients pursue fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Kentucky and Illinois

With experience defending clients against a range of criminal charges, Teris is committed to protecting the rights of the accused. She provides representation in cases involving: 

• Misdemeanors and felonies
• DUI and drug offenses
• Theft and property crimes
• Assault and domestic violence

Estate Planning & Probate Services

Teris helps individuals and families plan for the future with personalized estate planning services, including:

• Wills and trusts
• Powers of attorney
• Living wills
• Probate administration

Social Security Disability Representation

She also represents clients in Social Security Disability (SSD/SSDI) claims and appeals, guiding them through complex federal procedures and fighting for the benefits they deserve.

Real Estate Law

Teris assists clients in real estate transactions, title issues, and property disputes, providing support in:

• Residential and commercial closings
• Deed preparation and review
• Land use and zoning matters
• Landlord-tenant disputes

Education & Credentials:

• J.D., Southern Illinois University – Simmons Law School, 2017
  – Graduated Top 10
  – Teaching Assistant: Criminal Law, Contracts, Administrative Law, Second Amendment Law
  – Pro Bono Publico Award
• B.S., Murray State University, 2012
  – Major: Political Science
  – Secondary Teaching Certification – Social Studies
  – Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges

Licenses & Professional Affiliations:

• Kentucky Bar Association
  – Member, Artificial Intelligence Task Force
• Illinois Bar Association
• McCracken County Bar Association
  – Treasurer (2022–Present)
  – Board Member (2019–Present)
• U.S. District Court – Western District of Kentucky
• U.S. District Court – Southern District of Illinois
• Kentucky Justice Association
• American Association for Justice

Community Leadership:

Teris remains deeply committed to community service across Livingston County and beyond:

• Livingston County Friends of the Library – Board Member
• Livingston County Fair Association – Treasurer
• Leadership Paducah – Class #35
• Leadership West Kentucky – Class #3
• The Brook – Volunteer

Personal:

A proud Kentuckian, Teris lives in Ledbetter, KY, with her husband, Caleb Swanson, owner of Swanson’s Alignment. Together, they are raising their daughter, Josie, and are actively involved in their local community.

Teris combines legal experience with genuine care for her clients—working to simplify complex legal matters and deliver personalized results.