Frequently Asked Questions

Your initial consultation is completely free. We review your case and advise you on your options with no obligation.

Yes. Our team is fully bilingual in English and Spanish. We are committed to serving the diverse communities of Chicago.

We handle personal injury, workers' compensation, real estate transactions, estate planning, business formation, and contracts.

Bring any documents related to your case — contracts, correspondence, police reports, medical records, or insurance information. If you are unsure, just come as you are and we will guide you.

It depends on the case type. Personal injury and workers' compensation cases are handled on a contingency basis — you pay nothing unless we win. Other matters may be billed on a flat fee or hourly basis. We discuss fees upfront during your consultation.

Every case is different. We will give you a realistic timeline during your initial consultation based on the specifics of your situation. We keep you informed at every step.

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for most personal injury cases is two years from the date of injury. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to seek compensation.

Illinois follows a modified comparative fault rule. You can recover compensation as long as you are less than 50% at fault, though your award is reduced by your percentage of fault.

You may be entitled to medical expenses, lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and in some cases punitive damages.

We recommend speaking with an attorney before giving any statements to insurance companies. Adjusters may use your words against you to minimize your claim.

You may still have options through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, or through other liable parties. We can review your insurance policies to identify all available sources of compensation.

No. Illinois workers' compensation is a no-fault system. If you were injured in the course of your employment, you are generally entitled to benefits regardless of who caused the accident.

Report the injury to your employer as soon as possible, ideally within 45 days. You have up to 3 years from the date of injury (or 2 years from last payment of compensation) to file a claim with the Illinois Workers' Compensation Commission.

No. It is illegal for an employer to retaliate against you for filing a workers' compensation claim in Illinois. If you believe you have been retaliated against, contact us immediately.

Benefits may include payment of all reasonable medical expenses, temporary total disability (TTD) payments for lost wages, permanent partial disability (PPD), permanent total disability (PTD), and vocational rehabilitation.

While not legally required, having a lawyer at closing is standard practice in Illinois and highly recommended. A lawyer reviews the contract, title, and closing documents to protect your interests.

A title search examines public records to verify the seller's legal ownership and identify any liens, encumbrances, or defects. It protects you from purchasing property with hidden legal issues.

You can negotiate with the seller to make repairs, reduce the price, or provide credits at closing. In some cases, significant issues may allow you to terminate the contract.

A typical residential closing in Illinois takes 30 to 60 days from the time the contract is signed. Commercial transactions may take longer depending on complexity.

Yes. A will ensures your wishes are carried out and allows you to name a guardian for minor children. Without a will, Illinois law determines how your assets are distributed.

A will takes effect after death and must go through probate. A trust can take effect during your lifetime, typically avoids probate, and may offer tax advantages and greater privacy.

Review your plan after major life events such as marriage, divorce, birth of a child, significant change in assets, or death of a beneficiary. We recommend reviewing at least every 3-5 years.

Probate is the court-supervised process of validating a will and distributing assets. You can minimize or avoid probate through revocable living trusts, joint ownership, and beneficiary designations.

It depends on your goals. LLCs offer management flexibility and pass-through taxation. Corporations may be better for attracting investors or going public. We analyze your specific needs to recommend the best structure.

While not required, a lawyer helps you avoid costly mistakes — ensuring proper formation, protecting your personal assets, and setting up governance documents correctly.

Key elements include ownership percentages, profit distribution, management structure, voting rights, procedures for adding/removing members, and dissolution terms.

Yes, it is strongly recommended. Contracts contain binding legal obligations and terms that can have significant implications. A lawyer identifies risks and ensures the agreement protects your interests.