When someone commits a crime, the justice system focuses on punishing the offender—not helping the victim recover. But victims often face medical bills, missed work, and emotional pain that punishment alone can’t fix. In Illinois, you can file a civil personal injury claim to seek financial recovery, even if the criminal case is still pending…
Continue reading…Weather-Related Accidents: Liability During Chicago’s Harsh Winters
Chicago winters are more than an inconvenience — they create legal challenges when injuries occur on icy or snow-covered property. Under Illinois law, responsibility for snow and ice removal depends on the situation. Property owners, businesses, and the city each have duties to keep public areas safe. Understanding these obligations helps determine whether an injury…
Continue reading…Cosmetic Surgery Complications and Malpractice Claims
A cosmetic surgery meant to improve the patient’s emotional well-being can do the exact opposite if a surgical error occurs, leaving them struggling not only mentally, but also physically and financially. While these procedures are elective, patients have the same right to expect safe, competent care as those undergoing medically necessary procedures. Patients who suffer…
Continue reading…School District Liability for Student Injuries
When you send your child to school, you trust that they’ll be safe and properly supervised. Most of the time, that happens—but sometimes, negligence leads to serious injuries. Schools Have the Duty to Supervise Students Illinois law recognizes that schools have a duty to provide adequate supervision for students during the school day and during…
Continue reading…How to Recognize Inappropriate Behavior by Your Child’s Teacher
Too often, headlines today start with “inappropriate behavior by a teacher” and end with “escalated to harming a child.” Unfortunately, some inappropriate behaviors are the first indication that a child is in harm’s way. When those signs are not recognized, behaviors can turn into actions that cross lines and hurt a child’s physical or emotional…
Continue reading…Understanding Housing Discrimination and the Fair Housing Act
Everyone deserves fair access to housing, yet discrimination continues to happen in Chicago and throughout Illinois. However, the Fair Housing Act guarantees certain rights, and an experienced Chicago civil rights lawyer can help if someone discriminates against you. Basics of the Fair Housing Act The Fair Housing Act became law in 1968 as part of…
Continue reading…What Makes a Valid First Amendment Retaliation Claim?
The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution protects the rights to free speech, to peacefully assemble, and to petition the government for redress of grievances. The First Amendment bars federal, state, and local governments from passing laws that restrict protected speech. It also prohibits the government from retaliating against a person for their constitutionally protected…
Continue reading…Best Practices for Preserving Evidence in Sexual Assault Cases
Experiencing sexual assault can leave you feeling shocked, hurt, confused, and unsure of what to do next. While every survivor’s journey is different, taking steps to preserve evidence can be helpful if you choose to report what happened or take legal action later. Preserving evidence does not mean you’re locked into a legal case right…
Continue reading…Depositions Explained: Preparing for Your Personal Injury Case
When you file a personal injury claim in Illinois, you will likely have to provide a deposition at some point during the claims process. Depositions are a critical part of personal injury claims and allow both sides in the case to understand and evaluate the information the other has. In many cases, the information gathered…
Continue reading…How to Obtain and Enforce Protective Orders After Sexual Assault
Orders of protection—also called protective orders or restraining orders—are a key way Illinois protects sexual assault victims from future attacks. A protective order prohibits an abuser from contacting or approaching their victim and may impose additional restrictions, such as barring abusers from possessing weapons. Here’s what you need to know about filing for a protective…
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