How much does it cost to hire Todd for a aviation case?

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

Does Todd offer a free consultation?

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

How long do aviation cases in Illinois typically take?

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

Can Todd take my case if I'm outside Chicago?

Todd 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 — Todd 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 Todd?

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

Is Todd accepting new aviation clients right now?

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

Unclaimed · Is this you?

Todd Allen Smith, Aviation Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

Over 50 years of legal practice · focused on Aviation, Car Accidents, and Construction · 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

MemberatSmith LaCien LLP

Chicago, IL

Practicing aviation in Chicago since 1976.

50+: Years practicing
5.0 ★: 1 client review
6: Bar admissions

Practices in

Aviation Car Accidents Construction General Litigation Personal Injury +3 more →

Are you Todd Allen Smith?

This profile was built from public bar records and is still unclaimed. Claim it free to control your photo, bio, and fees — and get client inquiries sent straight to you.

Claim this profile — free

Quick answer

Todd Allen Smith is a member based in Chicago, IL. The practice focuses on Aviation, Car Accidents, and Construction. Todd has over 50 years of legal experience. Currently practicing at Smith LaCien LLP. Rated 5.0 out of 5 from 1 client review.

Based in: Chicago, IL
Experience: over 50 years
Known for: Aviation · Car Accidents · Construction

Handles Aviation, Car Accidents, and Construction matters from Chicago, IL.
Over 50 years of practice as a licensed attorney.
Recognized with AV Preeminent.

Areas of practice

Legal matters Todd takes on

Todd concentrates on aviation, car accidents, construction, general, and litigation. Each area below outlines the kind of case Todd handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

Aviation cases in Chicago, Illinois

Todd takes aviation 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 Todd agrees to represent you.

Car Accidents cases in Chicago, Illinois

Todd takes car accidents 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 Todd agrees to represent you.

Construction cases in Chicago, Illinois

Todd takes construction 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 Todd agrees to represent you.

General cases in Chicago, Illinois

Todd 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 Todd agrees to represent you.

Litigation cases in Chicago, Illinois

Todd takes litigation 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 Todd agrees to represent you.

Biography

Meet Todd Allen Smith — aviation lawyer in Chicago

Mr. Todd Allen Smith is a lawyer practicing plaintiff's personal injury litigation, aviation litigation, medical negligence and 9 other areas of law. Todd received a B.S.B. degree from Kansas University in 1971, and has been licensed for 50 years. Todd practices at Smith LaCien LLP in Chicago, IL.

Working with Todd on a aviation matter

Clients Todd works with

Todd reviews new inquiries case-by-case for aviation, car accidents, and construction matters in Chicago and the surrounding Illinois area.

Credentials

Education, bar admissions, and languages

Loyola University School of Law
J.D. · 1976
Kansas University
B.S.B. Northwestern · 1971

Jurisdictions

Todd's state bar admissions

District of Columbia
2012 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1994 · ACTIVE
U.S. Court of Appeal
1991 · ACTIVE
U.S. Supreme Court
1990 · ACTIVE
U.S. District Court,
1980 · ACTIVE
Illinois
1976 · ACTIVE

Todd studied at J.D. in Loyola University School of Law and B.S.B. Northwestern in Kansas University.

Law school and academic background

Todd completed J.D. in Loyola University School of Law and B.S.B. Northwestern in Kansas University. Formal legal training is one signal of substantive knowledge — the day-to-day practice Todd runs in Illinois is where that training gets applied to real client questions.

Recognition

Recognition and thought leadership

Todd has received 1 formal recognition from bar associations, industry bodies, and peer-review services.

AV Preeminent

Legal awards and honors

AV Preeminent.

Affiliations

Todd's professional memberships and bar associations

Illinois Bar Foundation
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Long Range Planning Committee, 1992-1993
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Vice-Chair, Task Force on Minorities and the Justice System, 1993-1996
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Elected Member, Scope & Correlation Committee, 1992-1993
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Chair, Assembly Committee on Integrated Bar, 1993-1994
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Chair, Standing Committee on Investments, 1993-1994
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Member, Standing Committee on Budget & Audit, 1993-1994
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Elected, Third Vice-President, 1994
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Chairman, Standing Committee on ISBA Properties, 1994-1995
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Board of Directors, ISBA Mutual Insurance Company, 1995—
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Second Vice President, 1997-1998
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First Vice President, 1998-1999
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Chairman of the Board, 1999-2000)
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American Bar Association (Chairman of the Board, 1998-1999
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Member, Sections on: Litigation
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Space and Aviation
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Tort and Insurance Practice
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Member, Editorial Board of the "Brief," 1990-1992
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Member, House of Delegates, 1995-1999)
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Fellow, American Bar Foundation
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Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (Secretary, Amicus Curiae Committee, 1985-1987
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Chairman, 1987-1989. Moderator, Trial Advocacy Seminar, December 1984
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Member: Legislative Committee
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Board of Managers, 1985—
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Chairman: Legislative Committee, 1989-1995
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Constitutional Challenge Committee, 1995-1997
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Co-Chairman, Publications Committee, 1995-1997
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Rules of Professional Conduct Committee, 1990-1992
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Seminar Planning Chairman, 1992-1994
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Executive Committee 1997-1998
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Nominating Committee, 1998)
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Association of Trial Lawyers of America (Sustaining Member, Parliamentarian, 1999-2000
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Treasurer, 2000-2001
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Secretary, 2001-2002
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Vice-President, 2002-2003
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President-Elect, 2003-2004
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President, 2004-2005
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Member, Judicial Independence Committee, 1998-2000
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Co-Chair, Legal Affairs Liaison Committee, 2000—
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Chair, Public Affairs Committee, 2002-2003
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Member: Amicus Curiae Committee, 1988-1993
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Constitutional Litigation Committee, 1988-1995
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Fellow, Trustee, Roscoe Pound Foundation
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Fundraising Events Subcommittee, 1988-1989
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Steering Subcommittee on Special Events
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Board of Governors, 1989—
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Member, Executive Committee, 1998—
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ATLA Endowment Trustee, 1999—
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Vice President, Board of Trustees, 2004-2005
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Chair, Regional Judges Forum, Roscoe Pound Foundation, 2000—
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Chair, Committee on Investments, 1999-2000
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Co-Chair, Membership Oversight Committee, 1999-2000
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Chair, Coordinating Committee of State Relations, 1999-2000
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"M" Club, 1990—
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ATLA PAC Committee, 1989-1991
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Trial Lawyers for Public Justice, 1989—
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Fellow, Civil Justice Foundation, 1989—
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Chairman, Amicus Curiae Committee, 1990-1992
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Member: Organizational Review Committee, 1991-1993
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Aviation Advisory Committee, 1991-1993
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Federal Rules Committee, 1991-1993
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Vice-Chair
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Legal Affairs Committee, 1992-1993 and 1996-1998
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Vice-Chair, Aviation Law Section, 1992-1994
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Chair Aviation Law Section, 1994-1995
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Member: Mass Tort Sub-Committee, 1992-1993
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Board of Trustees, National College of Advocacy, 1993-1996
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Program Advisory Committee 1994 ATLA Annual Convention
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Elected Member, Organization and Home Office Committee, 1994-1996)
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The Society of Trial Lawyers (Member, Board of Directors, 1992-1995)
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Trial Lawyers for Public Justice
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Trial Lawyers Club of Chicago (Member, Board of Managers, 1987—)
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American Inn of Court-Markey Wigmore Chapter. Fellow, The Inner Circle of Advocates. Fellow, American College of Trial Lawyers. Fellow, International Academy of Trial Lawyers. Fellow, International Society of Barristers
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Locations

Todd Allen Smith's office in Chicago

Todd's primary office is at 70 West Madison Ste. 2250, Chicago, IL, 60602. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Main office

Smith LaCien LLP

70 West Madison Ste. 2250

Chicago, IL 60602

Open in Google Maps

Client feedback

Client reviews of Todd Allen Smith — 5.0/5 rating from 1 verified client review

Every review below is from a verified client of Todd. Reviews cover communication, case outcome, and value — the three signals that matter most when comparing aviation 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 Todd Allen Smith claims this profile.

Read all reviews

Hiring guide

How to hire Todd Allen Smith — what to expect in your first consultation

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

Consultation formats and pricing

Todd charges for the initial consult. That fee is credited toward representation if you retain Todd'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; Todd will tell you what matters and what doesn't.

Questions to ask a aviation attorney in Chicago, Illinois

A short list to run through before you commit: How many aviation 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 Todd

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

Hourly rates, contingency fees, and flat-fee options

Every aviation 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. Todd confirms the model in the engagement letter before any work starts.

Payment methods and payment plans

Todd's office accepts standard payment methods. Ask about payment plans if the retainer is a stretch — many aviation practices work with clients on structured schedules.

Frequently asked

Frequently asked questions about Todd Allen Smith

How much does it cost to hire Todd for a aviation case?
Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Todd walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.
Does Todd offer a free consultation?
Todd charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Todd's office. Some aviation attorneys offer free consults — check Todd's current terms during booking.
How long do aviation cases in Illinois typically take?
Simple aviation 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. Todd gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.
Can Todd take my case if I'm outside Chicago?
Todd 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 — Todd 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 Todd?
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. Todd will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.
Is Todd accepting new aviation clients right now?
Todd's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.

Community Q&A

Real questions asked by Illinois residents in the last few months, answered by aviation attorneys like Todd Allen Smith. Each link opens the full answer thread.

Can I Get Compensation For A Denied Boarding In Illinois?
I arrived late to my flight from Chicago to New York, and the airline denied me boarding despite the flight being delayed. They offered a rebooking but no compensation. I lost a da
1 verified answer · Aviation · Illinois
What Are My Rights If My Flight Is Canceled Due To Weather In Tennessee?
My flights from Nashville to Las Vegas were canceled because of a snowstorm, and I had non-refundable tickets for a concert. I’m unsure if I’m entitled to any compensation or if I
1 verified answer · Aviation · Tennessee
What Are My Rights If My Special Needs Equipment Is Damaged In Alaska?
During a flight from Anchorage to Fairbanks, my special needs equipment was damaged. This has hindered my mobility and caused additional expenses. What are my rights regarding comp
1 verified answer · Aviation · Alaska
Can I Claim Damages For Emotional Distress After A Flight Cancellation In Missouri?
After my flight was canceled at Kansas City International Airport, I was left feeling anxious and frustrated, especially with my family waiting on the other side. The airline did n
1 verified answer · Aviation · Missouri
What Should I Do If My Flight Is Delayed Due To Mechanical Issues In Washington?
I was traveling from Seattle to Portland when my flight was delayed for mechanical issues, causing me to miss a crucial meeting. The airline offered no alternatives. Can I ask for
1 verified answer · Aviation · Washington
What Steps To Take When My Flight Was Canceled Due To Security Issues In Maryland?
Last month, my flight from Baltimore to New Orleans was canceled due to an unexpected security issue. I spent hours waiting at the airport and had to book a new flight, costing me
1 verified answer · Aviation · Maryland

Areas served

Aviation attorneys serving Chicago, Springfield and Northbrook in Illinois

Todd handles aviation matters throughout Illinois. Each city below is a direct link into the search page for verified aviation attorneys in that community.

More counsel

If Todd's intake is full or the fit isn't right, these aviation attorneys in Chicago handle similar matters. Every profile below is verified and open to consultations.

Todd Allen Smith, Aviation Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

Quick answer