There can be unintended consequences if donations are not done in the right way. Discover these helpful tips for getting the most out of holiday gifting.

Here’s a simple breakdown of what probate is, how it works in Illinois, and the steps you can take to bypass it altogether.

Here are some of the biggest legal concerns to address when passing a family business down to another family member, and why working with an experienced estate attorney is so important.

Experience Grayslake History: Listen In on a Captivating Podcast Interview with our own Robert Churchill

We are very happy to sponsor the latest outdoor movie night in Grayslake: Ferris Bueller's Day Off! Get the details for this fun summer event.

Grayslake Summer Days is now known as Grayslake Summer Fest and we are a proud sponsor of this event you don't want to miss! Get the details here.

To ensure you can continue to provide the support your child needs, whether they are down the road or across the country, it is essential to prepare two specific legal documents before they leave for college.

This year’s Grayslake Summer Nights brings back the epic street party that is the blast of the summer, and Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd is excited to be a sponsor!

Watch Grease under the stars! Get the event details here.

Knowing the basics of inheritance law can make the topic less overwhelming, which can make a person feel more prepared. Here is some essential information that everyone should know.

Whether you're buying, selling, or renting, it's crucial to be aware of these scams to protect your investment and your peace of mind.

Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd. are proud sponsors of this popular community event that is hosted by the Grayslake Chamber of Commerce. Get the details here!

A living will provides direction to your healthcare providers and loved ones during challenging times, ensuring that your desires are honored regarding important medical decisions.

Whether you're a buyer eager to find a new place or a seller navigating the process for the first time, having a qualified real estate attorney on your side is essential.

Staying compliant with employment regulations is crucial to avoid legal complications. The following are some essential compliance tips that small business owners need to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and lawful employment environment.

Navigating the legal intricacies of a commercial real estate transaction can be quite complex. An experienced attorney can help ensure a smooth, secure, and successful journey.

If you find yourself involved in a legal conflict, understanding the basics of civil litigation and securing competent legal representation can significantly influence the outcome of your case.

When an insurance claim gets denied it can be very frustrating and confusing to the policyholder. Here are answers to some of the most common questions people have when their claim has been declined.

Employers take note - There are several new Illinois laws that went into effect on January 1, 2024 that relate to employment. Make sure to stay compliant!

In our continuing interview series, attorney Bob Churchill discusses important issues to consider when choosing a business structure as well as successfully starting a new business.

Mary Lee Berresheim is experienced in estate and probate law and has helped many clients navigate the difficult issues surrounding the death of a loved one. Here, she shares her practical advice on the best ways to proceed during this time.

Amber Desselles specializes in helping her clients develop the right individual estate plan for their specific needs. Here is what she would like people to understand when it comes to preparing an effective estate plan.

Landlords must adhere to specific laws and regulations in order to remain legally compliant. Therefore, understanding these legal obligations is crucial in order to maintain a successful landlord-tenant relationship and avoid potential legal disputes.

Real estate transactions do not always go smoothly, and when fraud is involved, it is essential to have the right attorney representing you. Here are some examples of common types of fraud claims that can arise during a transaction.

The path to success in real estate development requires careful navigation of many legal complexities. Explore these essential legal considerations that Illinois developers should be aware of, to ensure a smooth and legally compliant development process.

The annual Grayslake Craft Beer Festival is returning for 2023 and we are proud sponsors! Get the event details here.

We are happy to sponsor a fun-filled outdoor movie event featuring the beloved film, “A League of Their Own”. Get the details here!

Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd is once again a proud sponsor of Grayslake Summer Days. Find important event details here!

Prepare for a day filled with laughter, friendly competition, and great memories at the 2023 Grayslake Chamber Golf Outing. Get the details here!

If you are facing a zoning dispute, it is important to understand your rights and options. Our experienced real estate attorneys can help you navigate the zoning process and protect your interests.

Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd are once again proudly sponsoring the Grayslake Arts Festival & Wine Tasting. Find details about the 2023 event here!

Probate can be a complex and time-consuming process. For this reason, it is important to have an experienced probate attorney on your side to help you navigate the system and avoid costly litigation.

Enlisting the services of an experienced M&A attorney can help protect the interests of your company throughout these complex transactions

Come see our own Amber Desselles offer important advice about estate planning for every family at this free community event

When applying for credit and loans, it is essential to understand your rights as a consumer. Protect yourself and your credit by familiarizing yourself with these laws.

An effective B2B collections strategy can help maintain strong business relationships. But if disputes arise, we can help you find a successful resolution.

Families of all ages need to understand the important security that a good estate plan will provide. Attorney Amber Desselles shares essential information here.

As 2023 begins, Illinois employers must be aware of the new employment laws that have gone into effect in order to stay compliant

Find important details and schedule information about Grayslake's Skate in the Park. Churchill, Quinn, Hamilton & Van Donselaar, Ltd are proud sponsors of this fun community event.

The success of a business can often depend on proprietary company information remaining protected. In order to accomplish this, a company can implement the following strategic policies and procedures.

Here are some of the most essential estate planning topics you should discuss with older family members in order to make sure they have the legal protection they need.

Filing an annual report can have a big impact on business operations, so it is essential to complete it accurately and on time. Our extensive experience in business law can help keep your company legally protected as you achieve your business goals.

Accepting the role of an estate executor is an honor but the job can also have some unexpected drawbacks. Without question, you should consider these carefully before accepting the responsibility.

Filing a workers’ compensation claim for a job injury does not always guarantee a proper settlement. Working with the right attorney can help.

A business loan can be an important resource but they are not always easy to obtain. Here are some common reasons for getting denied for a business loan, along with ways to overcome these challenges

An eminent domain case can leave a homeowner feeling powerless, but you do have rights. Here’s what you can do if the state wants to claim your property

Disputes that arise in the construction industry can be time-consuming, expensive and can affect the reputation of those involved. Working with an experienced attorney who is well-versed in construction law can help successfully resolve these disputes.

Choosing the right business structure is a crucial part of establishing the future path of your business. So do your research, consult with an experienced attorney and choose wisely!

While it is always a good idea to enlist the help of a qualified attorney for your real estate transaction, there are certain times when it is essential to protect your interests and investment.

Smart estate planning starts when you are young and continues throughout life. Here are practical tips for getting your estate in order, no matter what your age may be.

A church is not immune from lawsuits or other legal concerns. Here are a few that can definitely require the help of an attorney to settle.

While probate is common, it can be daunting for someone who’s never been through it before. There are, however, a few things you can do to make the probate process easier.

The decision to become a legal guardian to an adult should be done with careful consideration. The following information can be used as a starting point in your research. As a next step, our experienced attorneys can help you understand how to navigate the legal process of obtaining guardianship in the state of Illinois.

A court appeal is a complex process, so keep in mind the following strategies to improve your odds of a favorable outcome.

Once you’ve negotiated the contract, passed the home inspection and been approved for the mortgage, it’s time to get to the closing! Here are some easy ways to prepare for that final step.

For those looking to gift some of their assets while they are still living, here are some practical strategies to consider

The most important thing to remember before applying for an SBA loan is to be extremely well-prepared ahead of time. Pay attention to the following details in order to increase your chances of obtaining that approval on your application.

The decision to pass on the family business takes careful consideration, and these practical tips will help to ensure that the transition goes smoothly

Working with an attorney who is experienced in real estate litigation can help a current or potential property owner protect their legal rights to their real estate. Here are a few of the most common situations for an attorney to get involved.

It is a good policy to provide an official employee handbook to each employee to set expectations right from the start. Here are some items that should definitely be included.

When it comes to preparing a will, there is seriously no better time than right now. Here are some important reasons why you should not put it off any longer.

Although it might be a difficult road, it is possible to get an insurance claim denial reversed. A qualified attorney, like those at Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd, can make a difference in whether you emerge victorious in your insurance claim dispute.

Over 150 varieties of craft beer, food, music and more. Find information about the 2021 Grayslake Craft Beer Festival plus a link to purchase tickets here

Working with a qualified attorney can make all the difference in your legal success so it’s good to be prepared ahead of time. The following factors can help you determine which attorney is right for you.

The Grayslake Summer Days Festival is back for 2021. Find important event details, a band and entertainment schedule and more here!

Filing a mechanic’s lien is a great way to recover debt, and will usually get a quick response – BUT ONLY if it is executed properly! From residential claims to large commercial projects, our experienced team knows how to properly perfect and enforce a mechanic’s lien to achieve a successful settlement.

Grayslake area golf enthusiasts – this event is for you! The Grayslake Chamber of Commerce is hosting its 51st annual Golf Outing, and Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd is a proud sponsor. Get the details and a link to register here.

Property values seem to be rapidly increasing, and that usually means a higher tax bill. But don’t lose hope – there are ways to appeal to get your property taxes lowered. Here is what you need to know to successfully appeal your bill and pay less moving forward.

The Grayslake 5K Family Fun Run is back for 2021 and it’s sure to be a fun, family-friendly activity for those of all ages and abilities! Get the details and a link to register here!

Selling a home in IL is an exciting process, but you need to be fully prepared! Home sellers must be aware of and comply with their legal disclosure obligations in order to avoid legal issues down the line.

The Grayslake Arts Festival and Wine Tasting event is back for 2021, and Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd is a proud sponsor. Find the details of the event along with a link for advance tickets here!

As Grayslake celebrates 125 (+1) years, we invite you to explore a little about the history of our firm, as well as some interesting facts about Grayslake throughout the years.

Small businesses have a range of options when it comes to financing. The best choice for your business depends on your specific needs, so it’s important to do as much research as you can. Find some great ideas here.

An internet-based world makes it easy to cut out personal interactions, but some DIY tasks are not always a good idea. In fact, typical “fill-in-the-blank” legal forms may appear to be easy, but they can often cause more trouble in the long run.

At some point in your life you will probably be faced with the issue of probate – and you will likely have a lot of questions. Luckily, we are here to help. Here are answers to some of the more common questions people have when it comes to probate.

The minute you hire anyone to work for you, you subject your business to the potential risk of an employment-related lawsuit. Before you hire your first, your tenth or your one hundredth employee, following these guidelines will help to keep your business protected from legal action.

The best way to plan for the future security of your family is to start as early as possible. When it comes to estate planning, here are some things that a growing family needs to think about.

Small business owners are responsible for the success of the company and are continually faced with changing legal requirements that they must understand and adhere to. Here are some of the top legal issues that they are dealing with in these changing times.

Buying a home is a strategic process, so buyers need to be ready to act quickly to secure their dream home. But real estate buyers and sellers should not be in such a hurry that they lose sight of important details in the process. One way to avoid costly mistakes along the way is to hire an experienced real estate attorney.

If you’ve received a letter stating you filed for unemployment when you did not, you are one of the hundreds of thousands of people that are caught up in the IDES (Illinois Department of Unemployment Security) unemployment fraud happening right now. Here's what to do.

Legal issues can arise at any time, for anyone, at any age. And while a good lawyer is important throughout all stages of your life, seniors can be especially vulnerable. Here are some common situations a senior could be faced with in which they could benefit from the help of an experienced, trusted attorney.

Small businesses have been hit hard in these times of COVID-19. So many are trying to stay afloat, but are facing big challenges due to clients that cannot pay their bills on time. Here are a few practical suggestions for maximizing your collections efforts.

With all of the positive benefits of owning a pet, there can also be some drawbacks. Here are some legal issues that every pet owner should take note of.

Selling a small business is never an easy decision. As a business owner, you put a lot of time and effort into building the business. Therefore, it is often not just a financial decision, but an emotional one as well. For this reason, it is important to have as much information as possible before moving forward. If you do come to the conclusion that selling is the best route, be sure to avoid these common mistakes.

One of the most important things you can do to make the probate process easier is to select a trustworthy executor to make sure your wishes are carried out as you intended.

Having a good insurance policy in place should provide the protection you need when it comes time to file a claim. But unfortunately, it’s not always as straightforward as it should be. See how some insurance companies avoid paying on claims, and what you can do about it.

Medical malpractice can occur in any number of situations and it is something every patient needs to be aware of. Here's what to watch out for.

Our legal team provides practical legal guidance for both residential and commercial landlords dealing with missing or delayed rent payments due to COVID-19 challenges

Discover what estate planning steps you can take before you retire to ensure that your personal and financial affairs are in order

Our commercial litigation experts support our business clients and allow us to obtain the best possible results for a wide range of legal disputes. Here’s a great example of one of our client success stories.

In these uncertain times, “business as usual” just doesn’t exist. Here are some tips for employers who are trying their best to keep their businesses open while also focusing on employee safety during a pandemic.

Once a child turns 18, a parent may not have the legal authority to step in and make decisions if necessary. One way to provide some much-needed protection is to have a power of attorney (POA) prepared before they head off on their own.

In some cases an employer may want to ensure an employee does not compete against them after termination. In this case, a non-compete clause can be beneficial.

If times have been especially hard financially, and you are wondering how to find relief, know that you are not alone. If you believe a bankruptcy is the way out, read on for important information you’ll need to get started.

Once you receive your tax bill in the mail there isn’t anything that can be done to challenge the bill. But there are things that can be done so that next year’s real estate tax experience is less painful.

From selecting which type of adoption is best for you, to understanding the laws that vary from state to state, the adoption process itself can be challenging even for the most prepared adopters. It’s a good idea to hire an adoption attorney as step #1 in the process.

The lawyers of the law firm of Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd. are not only trustworthy and dependable, they are members of the Grayslake community themselves. Get to know your local lawyers - we are here when you need us!

The recently passed CARES Act includes provisions designed to help the small business community continue operations through this time of economic uncertainty. Find important details of the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) here.

COVID-19 has caused us all to hit the “pause” button on normal daily life. We have hope that it will pass quickly and will have minimal impact on your family and friends.

As with many legal and financial transactions, refinancing a mortgage can be a daunting task. While not required, it’s important to protect your interests by hiring an experienced mortgage refinancing attorney.

When you’re injured on the job, you may be entitled by law to get compensation from your employer. Filing an injury claim can be complicated, so it is recommended that you file with the guidance of one of our experienced attorneys

Knowing that it is inevitable that a POA will benefit you at some point, it is important to understand what a power of attorney is and when you will need one.

Not following proper procedures when terminating a lease agreement can cost a landlord a lot of time and money, and with one simple mistake, force them to start the process over from the beginning. Before starting the lease termination process, consider these guidelines.

When you’re ready to hire a contractor for that big home improvement project, you want to have the right person for the job. The process of finding a contractor doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Consider these tips as you start your search.

Starting a new small business can be challenging and is often overwhelming. But the best way to ensure success is to be prepared right from the start. Don’t jump into anything without doing your homework first - and avoid these common mistakes at all costs.

For everything that veterans sacrifice for our country, it is an honor to be able to find a way to make their lives easier when they are in need. Jencie Richtman is committed to accomplishing that goal, and has been recognized as a standout volunteer for Public Interest Law Initiative’s veteran’s pro bono program.

Being part of a blended family where people have been widowed, divorced or remarried can present its share of challenges, with estate planning being one of them. Read on for some tips to navigate these unique hurdles.

Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd effectively represents workers who feel that they have been treated unfairly as well as employers who need to defend their actions. Here are some examples of employment disputes for both employers and employees that we can help resolve.

You may be wondering what types of injuries are typically involved in a personal injury case, and what type of compensation you may be entitled to if you do file a lawsuit. Here is an overview of the types of cases we can assist with and what you might expect from a personal injury lawsuit.

There are a number of problems that can pop up before or during a loan closing that you may not be prepared for. Working with an experienced attorney is the best way to avoid unplanned obstacles like the following, or to help deal with them if they do arise.

When someone else has possession of property that rightfully belongs to you, a law known as replevin can help you get it back. Read more about this law here.

The sooner you get your estate in order the better, and it is best to start with accurate information. Here are some common misconceptions about the estate planning process and the realities behind them.

The death of a loved one is one of the most stressful times in life, and the question of “What do we do now?” can be overwhelming. Hopefully, these suggestions will help provide a roadmap for the days that follow.

The Lake County Circuit Clerk's Office has announced its 2019 Amnesty Week, during which all collection fees and accrued interest will be waived on any past due fines owed on criminal and traffic matters in Lake County.

Don’t miss the chance to take part in the 28th Annual Grayslake 5K Run & Walk taking place on Saturday, July 13, 2019 at 8:00am. People of all ages and athletic abilities can participate in this day of healthy togetherness, so runners, walkers, strollers and wheelchair athletes are encouraged to participate in this race through historic Grayslake.

Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd proudly sponsors the 25th Annual Antioch Run for Freedom, a favorite tradition among local participants. Good luck to all the runners!

Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton is a proud sponsor of the annual Taste of Grayslake event offering food, drinks, fireworks and lots of family fun

It’s that wonderful time of year again when the Grayslake Area Chamber of Commerce hosts the annual Arts Festival & Wine Tasting event - and Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd is proud to be a sponsor of this 24th celebration!

If you LOVE craft beer, or would like to know why they are so popular these days, you must head over to the Grayslake Craft Beer Festival on June 1st!  Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd is a proud sponsor of this fun adults-only event that you don’t want to miss.

Since your property tax bill is based on your assessed value, convincing the government that your home is worth less than they say it is can save you money.

Developing an appropriate estate plan to preserve and protect assets is a concern for many people. One estate planning option to consider is an irrevocable trust. There are several advantages to this type of trust, although it may not be appealing to everyone.

Turning a great idea into an actual business can be an exciting undertaking. However, properly executing your plan can sometimes be a challenge. If you have decided to launch a new business, it is very important to pay attention to some key legal issues that often are overlooked.

When a borrower fails to make one or more mortgage payments, the lender may initiate foreclosure proceedings in an attempt to recover the mortgaged property.  Here are some frequently asked questions regarding mortgage foreclosure

Exchanging confidential information is a necessary part of conducting business, but if a company’s secrets got out, it could mean financial devastation. A non-disclosure agreement helps ensure that sensitive information is not disclosed to any unauthorized individual.

A smart business owner knows that no matter how much time and effort is put into safeguarding the business, there is always the possibility that a legal issue may arise. In order to protect the integrity of your investment, it is important to have an attorney on hand to provide support in any number of situations.

After dutifully paying monthly premiums, it can be extremely frustrating to have an insurance claim denied. Although it might feel like fighting an uphill battle, it is possible to get a denial reversed. A qualified attorney, like those at Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, Ltd, can make a difference in whether you emerge victorious in your insurance claim dispute.

If you were to become terminally ill or severely injured and are unable to speak for yourself, doctors and loved ones may be left with the responsibility of making medical decisions on your behalf. A living will is one way to make your final wishes known.

Small businesses often need to rely on loans to get started or to cover daily expenses such as inventory, rent or payroll while working to take the company to the next level. While a small business loan may be necessary to grow and expand a business, they are not always easy to obtain. Here are a few things a business owner can do to improve the likelihood of an approval.

A guardianship may be granted if a court finds that a person is legally incapacitated or in some way unable to provide for his or her necessities in life.  There are different circumstances for appointing a guardianship, based on whether the person is an adult or a minor.

If you find yourself in a situation in which you require legal representation, you want to be assured that you have the best attorney by your side.  Working with a qualified attorney can make all the difference in your legal success, and these factors can help you determine which attorney is right for you.

If you own, or are thinking of purchasing, a piece of land and you want to build a new structure on that land, you must understand zoning laws and how they affect what you are legally allowed to do with it.

Defending yourself in court is not where most people want to end up, and having a judge rule against you is never the desired outcome. However, a judge’s decision does not always have to be final, and there are sometimes ways to challenge the decision and try to obtain a ruling in your favor.

The annual tree lighting event in downtown Grayslake is the perfect occasion to take part in the TOYS FOR TOTS toy collection campaign and help bring JOY to a child in need this holiday season!

What is the best way to pass along assets to your kids while still living, and avoid possible penalties that might accompany such gifting?  Here are some ways to transfer wealth to your family in the form of gifts.

Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton is proud to announce that we will serve as a drop-off location for Toys For Tots during this holiday season. 

Put on your best costume and hurry over to downtown Grayslake on Saturday, October 27th from 11:00am – 1:00pm for some Halloween trick-or-treating family fun!

Your family business is your pride and joy, and you have undoubtedly invested a great deal of money, time, and energy into creating a successful company with the intention of passing it on to your relatives when you retire.  There are many challenges that can arise that can put your plan at risk (such as family disagreements or taxes), but these suggestions can help you create a viable succession plan to pass the business on to the next generation.

For small businesses, every penny counts, and even a small bill left unpaid by a customer can make a big difference in your bottom line. As frustrating as debt collection can be, it is possible to recover payment on past due invoices. Here are some tips for keeping the bills paid and collecting on those that are late.

When entering into a transaction with another party for goods or services, it is always in the best interest of both parties to execute a signed contract, detailing the terms of the agreement.  However, this does not always guarantee a favorable end result, as there are a number of ways that a breach of contract may occur.

Thank you so much to Grayslake Central High School for the beautiful Homecoming window decorations! 

When a landlord feels that a tenant does not abide by the rules set forth in their rental agreement, there is a specific eviction process that must be followed in order for the landlord to remove the tenant from the property.

We recently had nine tax appeal cases in one day and WON every case. EVERY client was granted a reduction. That’s what we call a successful day.

Many states do not require a home buyer to have legal representation during the purchase transaction, but considering the size of the investment and the problems that can often arise, it is very important to have an experienced real estate attorney on your side during this complex process.

Keep your eyes on the skies as the 6th annual Grayslake Color Aloft Balloon Festival takes flight on August 25th.  This exciting event, sponsored by Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton, will feature hot air balloons being inflated and competing to see which one can land closest to the Fox River. 

Celebrate the end of summer at this great family event sponsored by Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton. Grayslake Summer Days is happening on August 17th and 18th and will have tons of fun activities to choose from.

When it comes to settling an estate, most people have heard that it is best to avoid probate whenever possible.  But how many people even know what it is?  It is a lot easier to navigate this issue when you have the necessary information, so here are the basics of probate.

Owning commercial real estate can be a very rewarding experience but purchasing it can be a challenge. Some people may be hesitant to make the investment because they think it will be too complicated. But by doing some preliminary research and having the right experts helping you, anyone can enjoy the benefits that commercial real estate can offer.

The end of summer marks an exciting time for recent high school graduates as many of them will be heading off to college and university campuses to start a new chapter of their lives on their own. While they may be prepared with books, supplies and dorm room essentials, there are a few legal documents that you probably did not think of but are essential to their safety.

Churchill, Quinn, Richtman & Hamilton is proudly sponsoring the 27th Annual Grayslake Chamber of Commerce 5K Run & Walk through historic Grayslake. Runners, walkers, strollers and wheelchair athletes of all ages and abilities are encouraged to participate in this fun community event on July 14th.

When construction or improvements are done on a property, sometimes things do not go according to plan. When problems arise and contracted payments are not made, the situation can result in a mechanic’s lien being filed.

While it might seem logical to be happy about an increasing home value, when it comes to the tax assessor’s office you want your value to be as low as possible.  Since your real estate taxes are based on your assessed value, convincing the government that your home is worth less than they say it is can save you money.

In what promises to be an enjoyable day, downtown Grayslake is set to host the 23rd annual Arts Festival & Wine Tasting on June 23rd. This free event will offer the opportunity to view the works of over 60 local artists who will be displaying and selling their work.

When you are young and healthy, estate planning does not always seem like an urgent matter.  But that is exactly when you should get started!  It can be an unsettling thought, but life is unpredictable and it is never too early to solidify plans for child custody, money and possessions.

You’ve gone through all the work of litigating the case through pleadings, motions, discovery and, finally, either a dispositive motion or trial resulting in your client being awarded a long-sought monetary judgment.

How can homeowners protect themselves from unscrupulous home repair/remodeling contractors? Expert litigator Mark Van Donselaar outlines what homeowners can do before, during and after a home repair or remodeling to ensure that they are protected against home repairs gone awry.

Imagine the frustration of having a set of strict statutory requirements for a cause of action, meeting those strict requirements, but still failing in the underlying cause of action. Such a frustrating result is entirely possible under the provisions of the Mechanics Lien Act¹ (the Act) and the case law interpreting the Act.

A long-time business client calls you with a question about a contract that he is about to enter into on behalf of his business. The party with whom he is contracting is demanding that the contract include either your client’s personal guaranty, or that your client act as a surety for any debt owed under the contract.

In cases involving stolen checks, the appellate districts split on the application of the “continuing violation rule.” Beware, plaintiffs' attorneys: the statute of limitations for filing an action for the conversion of several negotiable instruments may, in effect, be shortening.

Despite the Illinois Supreme Court’s admonition that not every cause of action for breach of contract gives rise to a corresponding cause of action under the Consumer Fraud and Deceptive Business Practices Act (the Act)¹, there is no shortage of breach of contract cases including claims for relief based on the provisions of the Act.