Finding a Lawyer

As with all professional help, it's a good idea to start your search with referrals from colleagues, family and friends. Your real estate agent, lender or inspector are also good resources, as are neighborhood housing centers and community homebuyer programs.

Various community-based legal assistance programs in the Chicago area specialize in small-business and home-buying issues. For area artists, Lawyers for the Creative Arts (LCA) is also a good place to start your search. Review this chapter's Resources section for a comprehensive list or area resources.

If you are running a business from a commercial space that you are leasing, you might want to check with other, similar businesses and organizations in the area to find a lawyer who is familiar with the needs of your industry. For instance, if you are running a small gallery, a lawyer who regularly works with art galleries might have suggestions and resources about insuring artwork; an attorney who works with nonprofit organizations might be versed in property tax exemptions; and an attorney familiar with the needs of theaters will probably understand the requirements of Public Place of Amusement Laws.

If you are unable to find an attorney by following the suggestions above, consult with the Chicago Bar Association's Lawyer Referral Service at 312-554-2001. LCA might also be able to assist you; contact them at 312-649-4111, or visit their Website.

Like doctors, attorneys have specialties. For real estate transactions, find a real estate attorney who will understand the ins and outs of commercial leases and real estate purchases. (You wouldn’t go to a heart specialist for an eye problem!)

Your goal is to find a lawyer who makes you feel confident and comfortable. Call around. Ask the attorneys who speak to if they will take your case, and how much they charge. Many lawyers will spend a few minutes talking to you so that you can get to know each other. If you are not satisfied, keep looking. Don’t despair if you cannot find a lawyer through a referral; there are many other resources available.

In Illinois, attorneys are regulated by the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission (IARDC), which maintains up-to-date information about an attorney’s license to practice and disciplinary record. In addition, IARDC also accepts and investigates consumer complaints against attorneys.