Nancy Rink Carter, Appellate Attorney in Ottawa, Illinois

Nancy concentrates on appellate and criminal defense. Each area below outlines the kind of case Nancy handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Appellate

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• Criminal Defense

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Nancy's primary office is at 628 Columbus St., Ottawa, IL, 61350. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Nancy for a appellate case?

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

• Does Nancy offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do appellate cases in Illinois typically take?

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

• Can Nancy take my case if I'm outside Ottawa?

  Nancy 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 — Nancy 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 Nancy?

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

• Is Nancy accepting new appellate clients right now?

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