Ernest Summers III, General Attorney in Chicago, Illinois
Over 46 years of legal practice · 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review
PartneratFaegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
Chicago, IL
Practicing general in Chicago since 1980.
- 46+
- Years practicing
- 5.0 ★
- 1 client review
- 1
- Bar admission
Practices in
Are you Ernest Summers III?
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Quick answer
Ernest Summers III is a partner based in Chicago, IL. The practice focuses on General. Ernest has over 46 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.
- Based in
- Chicago, IL
- Experience
- over 46 years
- Known for
- General
- Handles General matters from Chicago, IL.
- Over 46 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
- Recognized with Peer Reviewed.
About Ernest Summers III: Ernest Summers III is a partner based in Chicago, IL. The practice focuses on General. Ernest has over 46 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.
Areas of practice
Ernest's practice areas in Chicago
Ernest concentrates on general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Ernest handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.
General cases in Chicago, Illinois
Ernest takes general matters in Chicago, Illinois. Typical engagements include intake calls to scope the issue, review of any records or filings you already have, and a written strategy memo before Ernest agrees to represent you.
Biography
Ernest Summers III, general attorney serving Chicago
Ernest Summers III is a partner based in Chicago, IL. The practice focuses on General. Ernest has over 46 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review. Ernest works from Chicago, Illinois and takes on general matters across the region.
Ernest Summers III is a lawyer practicing general practice. Ernest received a A.B. degree from Indiana University in 1976, and has been licensed for 46 years. Ernest practices at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP in Chicago, IL.
How Ernest handles general matters
Ernest Summers III is a lawyer practicing general practice. Ernest received a A.B. degree from Indiana University in 1976, and has been licensed for 46 years. Ernest practices at Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP in Chicago, IL.
Who Ernest represents
Ernest reviews new inquiries case-by-case for general matters in Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area.
Credentials
Credentials — where Ernest studied and practices
Indiana University School of Law - Bloomington
J.D. · 1980
Indiana University
A.B. Economics · 1976
Jurisdictions
Ernest's state bar admissions
Illinois U.S. Suprem
1980 · ACTIVE
Ernest studied at J.D. in Indiana University School of Law - Bloomington and A.B. Economics in Indiana University.
Law school and academic background
Ernest completed J.D. in Indiana University School of Law - Bloomington and A.B. Economics in Indiana University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Ernest runs in Illinois is where that training gets applied to real client questions.
Recognition
Ernest's legal honors and published work
Ernest has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.
Peer Reviewed
Legal awards and honors
Peer Reviewed.
Locations
Ernest Summers III's office in Chicago
Ernest's primary office is at 311 South Wacker Drive, Suite 4400, Chicago, IL, 60606. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.
Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
311 South Wacker Drive, Suite 4400
Chicago, IL 60606
Open in Google MapsClient feedback
Client reviews of Ernest Summers III — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review
Every review below is from a verified client of Ernest. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing general attorneys in Chicago.
5.0
1 client review
Client ratings are sourced from public records and editorial research. Reviews on LawyersListed are accepted from verified clients once Ernest Summers III claims this profile.
Read all reviewsHiring guide
How to hire Ernest Summers III — what to expect in your first consultation
Working with a new general attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Ernest usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.
Consultation formats and pricing
Ernest charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Ernest's office.
What to bring to your first meeting
Bring any documents you already have — police reports, medical records, filed pleadings, correspondence from an insurer, a copy of the contract at issue. If you're not sure, err on the side of bringing everything; Ernest will tell you what matters and what doesn't.
Questions to ask a general attorney in Chicago, Illinois
A short list to run through before you commit: How many general matters have you handled in the last year? What's your fee structure? Who else in the office will work on this? What's your realistic estimate of timeline and range of outcomes? How do I reach you between meetings?
Fees & payment
Fees, payment methods, and consultation options for Ernest
Ernest discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in general practice — ask which fits.
Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options
Every general matter is priced differently. Simple document review might be a flat fee. Injury litigation is often contingency. Complex commercial disputes usually run hourly with a retainer. Ernest confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.
Payment methods and payment plans
Ernest's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many general practices work with clients on structured schedules.
Frequently asked
Frequently asked questions about Ernest Summers III
How much does it cost to hire Ernest for a general case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Ernest walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Ernest offer a free consultation?
Ernest charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Ernest's office. Some general attorneys offer free consults — check Ernest's current terms during booking.
How long do general cases in Illinois typically take?
Simple general matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Ernest gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Ernest take my case if I'm outside Chicago?
Ernest is licensed in Illinois. Matters governed by Illinois law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Ernest will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.
What should I bring to my first meeting with Ernest?
Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Ernest will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Ernest accepting new general clients right now?
Ernest's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.
Areas served
General attorneys serving Chicago, Springfield and Northbrook in Illinois
Ernest handles general matters throughout Illinois. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified general attorneys in that community.
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