Jacalyn Smith, Business Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

Jacalyn concentrates on business and health care. Each area below outlines the kind of case Jacalyn handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Business

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• Health Care

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Jacalyn's primary office is at 70 West Madison Street, Suite 5200, Chicago, Illinois, 60602-4378. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new business attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Jacalyn usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Jacalyn discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in business practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Jacalyn for a business case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Jacalyn walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Jacalyn offer a free consultation?

  Jacalyn charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Jacalyn's office. Some business attorneys offer free consults — check Jacalyn's current terms during booking.

• How long do business cases in Illinois typically take?

  Simple business 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. Jacalyn gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Jacalyn take my case if I'm outside Chicago?

  Jacalyn 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 — Jacalyn 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 Jacalyn?

  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. Jacalyn will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Jacalyn accepting new business clients right now?

  Jacalyn's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.