I bring extensive experience in the law of business in construction and design, with a focus on mechanic’s/construction liens, related disputes over construction and design, and other real estate matters. I work with businesses at every level in the organization chart of a project – owners, general contractors, trade contractors, suppliers, design firms, consultants, lenders, title companies and related surety claims – as well as other businesses to resolve disputes efficiently while protecting their legal interests.
In the Profession
I frequently write and speak at seminars, sharing practical methods for drafting contracts and resolving disputes. Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of serving in leadership roles such as:
- Chair of the Illinois State Bar Association Construction Law Section Council (2017–2018)
- Chair of the Wisconsin Bar Association Construction and Public Contract Law Section (2019–2021)
- President of the Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys (2018–2019)
- Member of the Joint CBA-ISBA Committee that drafted the 2006 revisions to the Illinois Mechanics Lien Act
I also contributed as the editor of a chapter in the second and (upcoming as of this writing) third edition of Turner on Illinois Mechanics Liens, and serve on the Associated General Contractors of America Construction Law and Operations Committee, the Contract Documents Forum, and the AGC-Wisconsin Associate Board.
As a member of the Chicago Bar Association, I currently serve on the Real Property Law Committee and the Construction Law & Mechanic’s Lien Subcommittee, where I previously served as chair. I have also been involved with the American Bar Association Forum on Construction Industry, the Illinois Land Title Association, and other professional groups.
I’ve been recognized with an AV rating by Martindale Hubbell and have been named among the top construction law attorneys by Chambers USA, Best Lawyers, Illinois and Wisconsin Super Lawyers, and the Leading Lawyers Network. While in law school, I was Senior Associate Editor of the Houston Law Review.
In the Community
I am proud to have served as President of the Board of Directors for the Greater Libertyville Soccer Association and as Vice President of the Board of Directors for Libertyville Township Soccer Complex, Ltd. I continue to advise both organizations on legal matters and have donated significant time to support their missions.
Legal Background
University of Houston Law Center, J.D., 1985
Loyola University Chicago, B.A., 1982
Admitted: Illinois, Texas, Wisconsin, and numerous federal courts.
Memberships: Society of Illinois Construction Attorneys, Chicago Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association – Construction Law Section Council, Wisconsin Bar Association – Construction and Public Contract Law Section, PowerHouse Smart, Associated General Contractors of American and of Wisconsin, Real Professionals Network, Midwest Business Brokers and Intermediaries.
