Best Civil Lawyer in Illinois
AHMED MOTIWALA
Civil Lawyer
Ahmed Motiwala is an attorney and the founder of M&A Law Firm, P.C. What began with Ahmed working with a few loyal clients out of his dining room, has since flourished into a premiere law firm with attorneys practicing Real Estate Law, Civil Litigation, Estate Planning, Business Law and Immigration Law.
Ahmed earned his Bachelor’s Degree from DeVry University. Although Ahmed was by no means the most naturally “gifted” student in any class, he was always the hardest working and had the most “hustle.” Ahmed attended a four year university while also maintaining a full time job. Ahmed then went on to receive his Juris Doctorate from The John Marshall Law School.
Upon entering private practice, Ahmed brought the same dedication, work ethic and “hustle” to representing his clients that had always fueled his drive. Ahmed’s philosophy is simple: find a client with a cause you can believe in, and then give it everything you got to help that client achieve his or her goals.
Prior to starting M&A Law Firm, Ahmed worked for a large law firm that mainly represented National Lending Institutions. There, each client was a faceless institution that represented a way to meet the firm’s billable hour requirement. After his stint in large law firm life, it was apparent that this wasn’t a cause that Ahmed could get behind. After some soul searching, Ahmed decided to take a leap of faith and M&A Law Firm was born.
Today, Ahmed is proud to be on a first name basis with hundreds of clients. Since its inception M&A Law Firm has helped hundreds of clients structure businesses and achieve success. Whether the client is a small “mom and pop” shop opening up its first business or a large group of investors structuring a multi-million dollar business, Ahmed always puts the best interest of his clients first.
George S. Bellas
Civil Lawyer
Throughout his legal career, Geo has counseled and assisted small business owners in the development of their business. Geo consistently advances the best interests of his clients and promotes the use of technology in the practice. Geo has employed his business and tech acumen to help start and protect small business owners.
Geo has been recognized by his peers as one of the top litigators in the country as evidenced by his tenacious advocacy of his clients’ best interests.
Geo has tackled problems from the rollover of SUVs to exposing the dark money used to secretly fund the election of an Illinois Supreme Court Justice to the pollution of dog food to the failure of not-for-profit hospitals to aid the less fortunate.
Practice Areas
- Business Law & Litigation
- E-Discovery for Small Business Lawsuits
- Real Estate/Foreclosures
- Estate Planning Civic Activities
- Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce
- Parish Council, Saint Nectarios Greek Orthodox Church, 2002 thru 2007.
- Des Plaines Chamber of Commerce, Board of Directors, 1996-2002
- Village of Palatine Planning Commission, 1993-1994
- Board of Directors, Volunteers of Northwest Suburban Chicago, 1988-1993
Richard Dvorak
Civil Lawyer
Richard Dvorak graduated from the University of Wisconsin in 1993 with a bachelor’s degree in journalism and history. In 1996, after a brief career in journalism, Mr. Dvorak began attending DePaul University College of Law. During law school, he took a year off to teach English in South Korea and Spain. After returning to DePaul in 1998, Mr. Dvorak was chosen to be a summer intern in Mexico City with an independent Mexican human rights organization. Having lived and worked in Spain and Mexico, Mr. Dvorak is fluent in Spanish.
After graduating from DePaul College of Law in 1999, Mr. Dvorak worked as an attorney with the Cook County Public Defender’s Office in Chicago. While working for the Public Defender’s Office, Mr. Dvorak successfully tried numerous bench and jury trials. Mr. Dvorak then went into private practice, concentrating his work in criminal defense, civil rights and personal-injury litigation.
Mr. Dvorak is an Adjunct Professor at the Northern Illinois University College of Law. He is Director of its Prisoners’ Rights Project. Mr. Dvorak has extensive experience in Section 1983 civil rights litigation on behalf of prisoners and detainees in prisons and jails. Mr. Dvorak obtained a $4.75 Million settlement on behalf of an injured detainee at the Cook County Jail, and has obtained several six-figure settlements against the Cook County Jail, IDOC, and other jails and prisons. Mr. Dvorak has also been the class representative in class actions on behalf of prisoners and detainees seeking to improve their conditions of confinement.
Kevin O'Flaherty
Civil Lawyer
Kevin O’Flaherty is a graduate of the University of Iowa and Chicago-Kent College of Law. He has experience in family law, litigation, estate planning, bankruptcy, real estate, and comprehensive business representation. He regularly teaches seminars on Estate Planning and Business Law.
He has been honored to be a recipient of Suburban Life’s “Best Under 40” Award when he was still under 40, which is sadly no longer the case. Kevin received an award from the American Institute of Family Law Attorneys as one of the 10 Best Attorneys for Client Satisfaction. Kevin is licensed in Illinois, Iowa, and Indiana as well as the Northern District of Illinois Federal Court. He is a member of the DuPage County Bar Association and the Illinois State Bar Association.
Areas of Practice
Josh Rinker
Civil Lawyer
Bloomington Illinois attorney Josh Rinker earned his undergraduate degree from Illinois State University followed by a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). After his graduation from the John Marshall Law School, Josh began his career in McLean County working for the Dunn Law Firm, focusing on civil litigation, business formation, and estate litigation. After leaving private practice, Josh became an Assistant State’s Attorney at the McLean County State’s Attorney’s Office where he focused his attention on the prosecution of DUI’s, Misdemeanors, and drug related Criminal Felonies. After serving as a prosecutor Josh reentered private practice at the law firm of Skelton & Wong, P.C., where he handled all forms of Criminal Defense and established himself as an accomplished practitioner in the areas of Divorce, Child Custody, and Child Support litigation. Additionally, Josh developed an aptitude for handling complex appeals in front of the Fourth District Appellate Court.
In addition to his law practice Josh also serves as an Instructional Assistant Professor at Illinois State University, where he teaches Legal Research and Trial Advocacy. Josh looks forward to consulting with and providing exemplary representation as your attorney.
Robert S. Fakhouri
Civil Lawyer
Robert S. Fakhouri is the founder and leading lawyer of The Fakhouri Firm, LLC. His accomplishments began as an undergraduate student at Loyola University where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts and Science, Biology, and Anthropology. Robert was highly involved as an Alpha Sigma Nu Inductee, a member of the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and a member of the Golden Key International Honour Society.
Additional accomplishments include being a part of the Dean’s List and Magna Cum Laude. Robert also studied at the University of Provence Aix-Marseille for French Language and Literature, despite fluency in the English, Arabic and Spanish languages. In law school, Robert exemplified his passion and interest in being a trial advocate. Before recovering millions of dollars for injured persons and their families in claims, Robert participated as a Chicago-Kent Trial Advocacy Team competitor, where he was awarded for his advocacy skills on a national scale. He also spent a year as a Judicial Extern to the Honorable Ronald Bartkowicz in the Circuit Court of Cook County. The following year, he was a Rule 711 Law Clerk at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office for the Felony Trial Division.
Robert began his legal career upon graduating Chicago-Kent College of Law. At that time, he was one of the youngest individuals to be admitted to the Illinois Bar. Robert joined the Goldberg Weisman Cairo law firm after graduating from law school and worked as a law clerk before becoming a Litigation Associate. His accomplishments and experiences enabled him to build and own a law firm at the young age of 25.
The Fakhouri Firm is a civil litigation law firm dedicated to protecting the legal rights of those wronged by the conduct of others while also being committed to clients in the formation and ongoing practice of their businesses and corporations. Having effective attorney representation has always been vital to the law firm. Robert recognizes the significance of his community and fights to advocate others inside and outside of the court of law. His volunteer and community service experience involves being a founding board member of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation and a Director on the board of the Greek American Rehabilitation Center in Wheeling, Illinois.
JUSTIN M. HASTINGS
Civil Lawyer
Justin has quickly built a reputation as a formidable litigator in the legal community as he tirelessly and zealously represents his clients. In early 2019, Justin was promoted to managing partner and soon after took over his predecessor’s firm. He considers his role as an attorney to not only be an advocate for his clients, but also for the community by bringing passion and strong ethical fortitude to the practice of law. Justin also practices as a mediator and guardian ad litem while championing alternative dispute resolution. When not practicing law, Justin enjoys spending time coaching youth football and baseball.
EDUCATION
Northern Illinois University College of Law, J.D. & Certificate in Civil Advocacy, 2016
DePaul University, B.A. Philosophy & Sociology, 2013
William Rainey Harper College, A.A., 2011
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATIONS & MEMBERSHIPS
Illinois State Bar Association
DuPage County Bar Association
Kane County Bar Association
McHenry County Bar Association
PRACTICE AREAS: Family Law, Mediation, Guardian Ad Litem & Child Advocacy, Real Estate, Landlord/Tenant, Foreclosures, Estate Planning
BRIAN C. CICHON
Civil Lawyer
Brian has been practicing law in Will County for over 20 years, and handles a variety of legal issues, be they simple, complex or something in between. He is a trial lawyer, with a current focus in the area of workers’ compensation and general civil litigation. Brian’s primary goal in any legal dispute is to make sure that the solution is the best possible one for his client. He always seeks a practical, cost-effective outcome, and where litigation is necessary, he is ready to fight for his client’s rights.
Brian is a former collegiate athlete and a captain of his college soccer team. He grew up in the northwest suburbs of Chicago, and now resides in Minooka with his wife, Jennifer, a school social worker for Joliet School District 86, and his three children. He is a member of the Minooka Lion’s Club and, when he isn’t at work or chasing his children from activity to activity, he is an avid runner, golfer and music aficionado.
Areas of Practice
- Workers’ Compensation
- Civil Litigation
- Real Estate
- Landlord Tenant
- Collections
Prairie State Justice: Why You Need a Top Civil Lawyer in Illinois
The vibrant cityscape of Chicago and the rolling farmlands of Illinois can both be backdrops for complex legal matters. If you’re facing a civil lawsuit in Illinois, navigating the legal system can feel like traversing the mighty Mississippi River – powerful, unfamiliar, and demanding a skilled guide. Here’s why securing a top-notch civil lawyer in Illinois is crucial for protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome:
1. Untangling Legal Complexities:
Civil cases often involve intricate legal issues and mountains of paperwork. A skilled civil lawyer can:
- Decode Legal Labyrinth: They can meticulously analyze your case within the framework of the Illinois Compiled Statutes (ILCS) and interpret key court rulings that may influence the case and your potential defenses.
- Ensure Procedural Accuracy: They ensure that all necessary legal procedures are followed accurately, protecting your rights and avoiding potential errors.
2. Championing Your Rights in Illinois Courts:
- Protecting Your Interests: In civil cases, individuals or entities often seek compensation, justice, or resolution for grievances. The best civil lawyer can effectively advocate for your rights and interests, ensuring you receive a fair outcome (IL.gov).
3. Expertise Honed in Illinois Courtrooms:
Experience matters:
- Proven Track Record: Top civil lawyers in Illinois typically have extensive experience handling various civil cases, from contract disputes to personal injury. Their expertise can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.
4. Knowledge of Local Legal Landscape:
Laws can vary by state:
- Understanding Illinois Law: Hiring an experienced civil lawyer familiar with Illinois laws ensures that your case is handled according to the relevant statutes and regulations specific to the state.
5. Negotiating for a Favorable Resolution:
Not all battles need to be fought in court:
- Skilled Negotiation: Many civil cases can be resolved through negotiation rather than going to trial. A skilled civil lawyer knows how to negotiate effectively on your behalf, potentially saving you time, money, and the stress of litigation.
6. Trial-Ready Representation:
Prepared for any outcome:
- Trial Preparation: In the event that your case does go to trial, having the best civil lawyer means having someone who can thoroughly prepare your case, gather evidence, and present a compelling argument in court.
7. Building a Strong Case from the Ground Up:
Resources to secure a win:
- Building a Strong Case: A top civil lawyer will have the resources and connections to build a strong case in your favor. This may include hiring expert witnesses, conducting thorough investigations, and presenting persuasive evidence.
8. Peace of Mind During a Challenging Time:
- Stress Relief Through Expertise: Facing a civil legal issue can be incredibly stressful. Hiring the best civil lawyer in Illinois can provide you with peace of mind, knowing that you have a skilled professional handling your case with expertise and dedication.