Meaghan Vander Schaaf, General Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

Meaghan concentrates on general, government, and international. Each area below outlines the kind of case Meaghan handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• General

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• Government

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• International

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Meaghan's primary office is at 134 North LaSalle Street, Suite 1300, Chicago, IL, 60602. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

Meaghan 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.

• How much does it cost to hire Meaghan for a general case?

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

• Does Meaghan offer a free consultation?

  Meaghan charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Meaghan's office. Some general attorneys offer free consults — check Meaghan'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. Meaghan gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

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

  Meaghan 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 — Meaghan 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 Meaghan?

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

• Is Meaghan accepting new general clients right now?

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