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20 Sep, 2024 by Brian krockey
I want to thank Scott Goldstein and Jake Nabat for their excellent representation of my case. I have never experienced this in my 36 years in this my industry of hospitality leadership. Scott and Jake were by my side the entire time and I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, Scott and Jake!
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09 Sep, 2024 by Oshay harper
Ankin Law Office is amazing to work with! Thank you to Ms.Karolina Kurczak for helping me throughout my case! If you know anyone that has been injured please don’t hesitate to give Ankin Law a call!
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07 Sep, 2024 by Joshua coles
Great service
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20 Sep, 2024 by Brian krockey
I want to thank Scott Goldstein and Jake Nabat for their excellent representation of my case. I have never experienced this in my 36 years in this my industry of hospitality leadership. Scott and Jake were by my side the entire time and I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, Scott and Jake!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Oshay harper
Ankin Law Office is amazing to work with! Thank you to Ms.Karolina Kurczak for helping me throughout my case! If you know anyone that has been injured please don’t hesitate to give Ankin Law a call!
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star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Joshua coles
Great service
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star star star star star
20 Sep, 2024 by Brian krockey
I want to thank Scott Goldstein and Jake Nabat for their excellent representation of my case. I have never experienced this in my 36 years in this my industry of hospitality leadership. Scott and Jake were by my side the entire time and I would recommend them to anyone. Thank you, Scott and Jake!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
09 Sep, 2024 by Oshay harper
Ankin Law Office is amazing to work with! Thank you to Ms.Karolina Kurczak for helping me throughout my case! If you know anyone that has been injured please don’t hesitate to give Ankin Law a call!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
07 Sep, 2024 by Joshua coles
Great service
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20 Mar, 2024 by Andy andreasik
Mike and the team at Ryan & Ryan did an outstanding job representing my company in connection with the taking of construction easements by the Tollway Authority. The matter was handled professionally and expeditiously, and communication was a strong point throughout the process. Highly recommended.
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02 Mar, 2024 by Barb christenson
Recently I needed legal assistance for a Union Pacific Railroad/property use matter. I was referred to and impressed by Ryan & Ryan Law firm. I worked specifically with Mike Ryan. He was an experienced and knowledgeable professional that was also easy to work with. Mike was very patient in listening to my questions and concerns and clear in explaining what my options were. We were able to complete legal contract negotiations and receive just compensation in a timely manner. For quality legal services regarding property ownership advocacy and just compensation, I would highly recommend Ryan & Ryan Law.
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28 Feb, 2024 by Keith newton
Our association engaged Ryan & Ryan to assist with complicated transactions with the tollway authority. Their expertise guided us through the process very professionally. Hiccups that came along the way were dealt with quickly and efficiently. I would highly recommend their firm as a trusted advisor and competent partner.
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20 Mar, 2024 by Andy andreasik
Mike and the team at Ryan & Ryan did an outstanding job representing my company in connection with the taking of construction easements by the Tollway Authority. The matter was handled professionally and expeditiously, and communication was a strong point throughout the process. Highly recommended.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
02 Mar, 2024 by Barb christenson
Recently I needed legal assistance for a Union Pacific Railroad/property use matter. I was referred to and impressed by Ryan & Ryan Law firm. I worked specifically with Mike Ryan. He was an experienced and knowledgeable professional that was also easy to work with. Mike was very patient in listening to my questions and concerns and clear in explaining what my options were. We were able to complete legal contract negotiations and receive just compensation in a timely manner. For quality legal services regarding property ownership advocacy and just compensation, I would highly recommend Ryan & Ryan Law.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
28 Feb, 2024 by Keith newton
Our association engaged Ryan & Ryan to assist with complicated transactions with the tollway authority. Their expertise guided us through the process very professionally. Hiccups that came along the way were dealt with quickly and efficiently. I would highly recommend their firm as a trusted advisor and competent partner.
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See more
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22 Jun, 2024 by Nelly markovska
I highly recommend the attorney Elena Costa..She is knowledgable ,punctual,kind and cares about her clients.She explained everything to me in full details, the good and fast communication made the process easier for me.At the end I was very satisfied with the service she provided for me.
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06 Sep, 2023 by Krasi marinov
I've had the pleasure and opportunity to work with "Elena Costa law office" for over 12 years. Extremely professional, hardworking and pedantic in her work. There is not enough words to describe her patience, calm and peaceful character. Always ready to explain, listen and help with her professional knowledge and experience. Glad to have found you and looking forward to working with you in the near future! Thank You !!!
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22 Sep, 2022 by M s (ladycop of schiller park)
Very knowledgeable & professional services.
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22 Jun, 2024 by Nelly markovska
I highly recommend the attorney Elena Costa..She is knowledgable ,punctual,kind and cares about her clients.She explained everything to me in full details, the good and fast communication made the process easier for me.At the end I was very satisfied with the service she provided for me.
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
06 Sep, 2023 by Krasi marinov
I've had the pleasure and opportunity to work with "Elena Costa law office" for over 12 years. Extremely professional, hardworking and pedantic in her work. There is not enough words to describe her patience, calm and peaceful character. Always ready to explain, listen and help with her professional knowledge and experience. Glad to have found you and looking forward to working with you in the near future! Thank You !!!
Read more Google Maps
star star star star star
22 Sep, 2022 by M s (ladycop of schiller park)
Very knowledgeable & professional services.
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See more
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FAQs
Questions? We have answers

What a Litigation Lawyer Can Do for You

A litigation lawyer specializes in representing individuals, businesses, or organizations involved in legal disputes. Whether you're the one filing a lawsuit or you're being sued, a litigation attorney will advocate on your behalf throughout the entire legal process. Their goal is to resolve disputes, either through negotiation, settlement, or trial. Litigation lawyers can help with a wide range of disputes, including contract disagreements, real estate issues, employment disputes, personal injury claims, and more.

Litigation lawyers provide strategic legal advice and manage all aspects of your case, from filing motions to representing you in court, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of achieving a favorable outcome.

When Should I Hire a Litigation Lawyer?

You should consider hiring a litigation lawyer if you're involved in a legal dispute that you cannot resolve on your own. Common situations include:

  • Breach of contract disputes: If a party to a contract fails to fulfill their obligations, a litigation lawyer can help you seek damages or enforce the agreement.
  • Business disputes: Litigation lawyers can represent you in cases of partnership disagreements, intellectual property disputes, or business fraud.
  • Employment disputes: If you're facing issues like wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, or wage disputes, a litigation lawyer can help resolve these matters through negotiation or court action.
  • Personal injury claims: If you've been injured due to someone else's negligence and are seeking compensation, a litigation attorney can help you pursue your case.
  • Real estate or property disputes: When there are conflicts over property ownership, boundary issues, or lease agreements, a litigation lawyer can assist in resolving the dispute.

Hiring a lawyer early in the process is beneficial, especially if a lawsuit seems imminent or you have already been served with legal documents.

What Does a Litigation Lawyer Do?

A litigation lawyer handles all aspects of your case, from the initial investigation to the trial and even the appeals process, if necessary. Their role includes:

  • Case assessment and investigation: Analyzing the facts of your case and advising whether it’s worth pursuing or defending.
  • Pleadings and motions: Drafting and filing documents to initiate or respond to a lawsuit, including complaints, motions to dismiss, and answers.
  • Discovery: Gathering evidence, including depositions, interrogatories, and document requests, to build your case.
  • Negotiations and settlement discussions: Attempting to resolve disputes through mediation, arbitration, or settlement talks before going to trial.
  • Trial representation: Presenting your case in court, examining witnesses, introducing evidence, and making legal arguments before a judge or jury.
  • Appeals: If necessary, filing appeals to challenge or defend the outcome of the trial.

Litigation lawyers are also skilled negotiators and often work to resolve disputes outside of court to save time, money, and stress for their clients.

How Are Litigation Lawyers Paid?

Litigation lawyers typically use a variety of fee structures depending on the type of case, the complexity of the legal matter, and the financial circumstances of the client. Common payment arrangements include:

  • Hourly rates: Many litigation attorneys charge by the hour, with rates varying based on experience and geographic location.
  • Flat fees: For specific, predictable legal tasks (such as filing a motion), lawyers may offer a flat fee.
  • Contingency fees: In personal injury or other cases where you seek damages, a lawyer may work on a contingency basis, taking a percentage of the settlement or award if you win.
  • Retainer: Some clients pay a retainer fee upfront to secure ongoing legal services. The lawyer then bills against this retainer as work is done.

The exact structure should be discussed in the initial consultation to ensure you understand how and when you'll be charged.

How Much Does a Litigation Lawyer Cost?

The cost of a litigation lawyer varies significantly depending on the nature of the dispute and the lawyer’s experience. Factors affecting the cost include:

  • The complexity of the case: More complex litigation involving extensive discovery, expert witnesses, or multi-party suits typically costs more.
  • Time spent: Litigation cases can be time-consuming, especially if they go to trial. The longer the case, the higher the legal fees.
  • Type of fee arrangement: Hourly rates can range from $200 to over $1,000 per hour, depending on the lawyer’s reputation and location. Contingency fees generally range from 25% to 40% of the settlement or award.
  • Stage of litigation: Cases that settle early in the process are often less expensive than those that proceed to trial or appeal.

It’s crucial to ask about cost estimates during your initial consultation to avoid surprises.

Top Questions to Ask a Litigation Lawyer

Before hiring a litigation lawyer, it's essential to ask key questions to ensure you're choosing the right representation:

  1. What is your experience with cases like mine?
    Ensure that the lawyer has experience handling your specific type of dispute, whether it's a contract issue, personal injury, or business matter.
  2. What are the potential outcomes of my case?
    Ask for an honest assessment of your case's strengths, weaknesses, and the likelihood of success.
  3. What is your fee structure?
    Clarify how you'll be charged, whether by the hour, a flat fee, or on a contingency basis.
  4. How long do you expect my case to take?
    While it's hard to predict, an experienced lawyer can give you a rough estimate based on similar cases.
  5. How often do you settle cases versus going to trial?
    Some lawyers are more inclined to settle, while others may be more experienced in the courtroom. It’s important to understand their strategy.
  6. What is your approach to resolving disputes?
    Some lawyers prefer aggressive litigation, while others focus on settlement or mediation. Choose one whose approach aligns with your goals.

How to Check the Credibility of a Litigation Lawyer

To verify a litigation lawyer’s credibility, consider the following steps:

  • Check bar association records: Ensure the lawyer is in good standing with the state bar and has no history of disciplinary actions.
  • Read client reviews and testimonials: Online reviews can provide insight into the lawyer’s professionalism and track record.
  • Look for litigation experience: Review the lawyer’s website or professional profile to ensure they have handled cases like yours and have a record of success.
  • Request references: Ask the lawyer to provide references from past clients who can speak to their effectiveness and approach.
  • Research their trial experience: If your case is likely to go to trial, ensure the lawyer has a history of courtroom success.

What Should I Prepare for My First Consultation?

To make your first consultation with a litigation lawyer productive, you should prepare the following:

  • A clear outline of the dispute: Provide a timeline and key details about the legal issue you're facing.
  • Any relevant documents: Bring contracts, emails, letters, or any other documentation that pertains to the case.
  • A list of key players: Provide the names of individuals or companies involved in the dispute.
  • Questions about fees and the litigation process: Make sure you understand how the lawyer plans to approach your case and how you will be charged.
  • Your goals and expectations: Be clear about what outcome you're hoping for, whether it's a settlement, compensation, or another resolution.

By coming prepared, you can ensure that your initial meeting with the lawyer is both efficient and insightful, giving you a better sense of how to proceed with your case.

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