Top Chicago Real Estate Lawyers

Name: Brand Vision — Chicago
Address: 30 N Michigan Ave, Suite 504, Chicago, IL, 60602, US

Chicago real estate moves fast and runs on details—block-by-block zoning, aldermanic input, layered approvals, and lenders that expect clean diligence. Whether you’re securing a River North office lease, building in a South Branch industrial corridor, or converting a mixed-use in Logan Square, a Chicago real estate lawyer keeps momentum while managing risk: translating the Chicago Zoning Ordinance, aligning lender and title requirements, and surfacing deal stoppers early so you don’t discover them at closing. Typical matters span acquisitions and dispositions, commercial leasing, joint ventures, construction contracts, and land use; common pitfalls include underestimated entitlement timelines, survey/title defects, affordable-housing obligations, and Cook County tax surprises.

Local factors that actually affect outcomes here: (1) Planned Development (PD) processes and neighborhood compatibility standards that can add hearings and negotiated conditions; (2) the Affordable Requirements Ordinance (ARO) and density/TOD bonuses that reshape underwriting near CTA stations; (3) the Lakefront Protection Ordinance and Chicago River design guidelines that trigger additional reviews; (4) historic landmarking and façade/permit controls through the Commission on Chicago Landmarks; (5) City of Chicago transfer-tax mechanics and exemptions that impact closing statements; (6) Cook County property-tax classification, triennial reassessment, and incentive programs (e.g., Class 6b/7) that drive pro formas; (7) environmental diligence in legacy industrial areas—Phase I/II ESA, remediation pathways, and MWRD stormwater approvals; and (8) condo-specific issues, including deconversion thresholds and reserve/inspection requirements that can derail timelines.

Process and communication matter as much as black-letter law. Expect front-loaded diligence (title, ALTA survey, zoning letters/opinions, environmental screens), coordinated ePlan permitting with the Department of Buildings, and early meetings with the Department of Planning and Development when entitlements or design review are in play. On leasing, Chicago-savvy counsel will lock in use and co-tenancy rights, construction exhibits, operating-expense caps, and remedies that fit local operating realities. On financed deals, they’ll sequence lender deliverables and endorsement packages so funding isn’t waiting on a late survey or estoppel. This guide curates a shortlist of top Chicago real estate lawyers and gives you a practical framework to choose—so you can protect value, control timelines, and close with confidence in one of the country’s most complex property markets.

Legal

Updated on September 24, 2025

Published on March 28, 2025

Businesses marked are featured.

Chicago Real Estate Lawyers

Explore the top real estate law firms in Chicago offering expert legal services in commercial real estate, leasing, acquisitions, zoning, development, and financing. Discover the best real estate lawyers in Chicago trusted by investors, developers, and property owners.

Honigman LLP

+1 312-701-9300
321 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States

Honigman LLP is a highly respected real estate law firm in Chicago, earning recognition as one of the best real estate lawyers in Chicago for its comprehensive and strategic legal services. With a strong Midwest presence and a rapidly expanding profile in Chicago, the firm provides expert counsel in real estate finance, acquisitions, dispositions, leasing, and property development. Known for successfully handling complex commercial real estate transactions, Honigman’s attorneys offer in-depth guidance on regulatory issues, zoning, and title matters. Their deep industry knowledge and client-centered approach make them a reliable legal partner for investors, developers, property owners, and commercial tenants navigating Chicago’s competitive and fast-moving real estate market. Whether managing multimillion-dollar transactions or advising on long-term development strategies, Honigman delivers trusted, results-driven representation.

Commercial Real Estate Transactions and Financing
Acquisitions, Dispositions, and Leasing Agreements
Development and Construction Legal Counsel
Zoning, Title, and Regulatory Compliance
Representation for Investors, Developers, and Landlords
Strategic Real Estate Advisory Services in Chicago

‍

Ginsberg Jacobs LLC

+1 312-660-9611
‍300 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Ginsberg Jacobs LLC is a well-regarded real estate law firm in Chicago, consistently recognized among the best real estate lawyers in Chicago for its focus on commercial real estate, finance, and transactional law. The firm’s attorneys offer strategic legal counsel on property acquisitions, leasing, real estate finance, and development-related matters. With clients spanning the retail, hospitality, and development sectors, Ginsberg Jacobs delivers tailored legal solutions that align with each client’s business goals and the evolving dynamics of Chicago’s real estate market. Known for their sharp attention to detail and practical, deal-oriented approach, the firm’s attorneys combine legal precision with industry-specific knowledge to help clients complete transactions efficiently and with confidence. Their ability to navigate complex deals and provide responsive service makes Ginsberg Jacobs a trusted partner for commercial property stakeholders throughout Chicago.

Commercial Real Estate Transactions
Leasing and Asset Management Agreements
Real Estate Financing and Lending
Property Acquisition and Disposition
Legal Support for Retail, Hospitality, and Development Sectors
Strategic Counsel in Chicago's Real Estate Market

‍

Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP

+1 312-269-8000
2 N LaSalle St # 1700, Chicago, IL 60602, United States

Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP is a distinguished real estate law firm in Chicago, widely recognized among the top real estate law firms in the city for its full-service capabilities and deep industry experience. Known for having some of the best real estate lawyers in Chicago, the firm advises clients on a broad range of transactions, including commercial leasing, real estate development, acquisitions, and property financing. Their attorneys offer practical, business-minded legal solutions grounded in a thorough understanding of Chicago’s evolving real estate landscape. Whether representing developers, investors, landlords, or tenants, Neal Gerber & Eisenberg delivers responsive, strategic counsel to ensure every deal is completed smoothly and effectively. Their combination of local insight and national reach makes them a go-to legal partner for real estate clients across various sectors.

Commercial Leasing and Asset Management
Real Estate Development and Construction Projects
Real Estate Finance and Lending Transactions
Property Acquisitions and Dispositions
Representation of Developers, Landlords, and Tenants
Client-Centered Legal Solutions in Chicago Real Estate

‍

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP

+1 312-527-4000
111 E Wacker Dr #2600, Chicago, IL 60601, United States

Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP is a nationally recognized, full-service law firm with a highly respected real estate law practice in Chicago. Frequently ranked among the best real estate lawyers in Chicago, the firm’s attorneys are well-versed in a wide range of matters including commercial real estate transactions, land use, zoning, and large-scale development projects. Known for their collaborative approach and deep understanding of local ordinances, Taft’s Chicago-based legal team offers tailored solutions to real estate developers, institutional investors, property owners, and commercial tenants. With a strong focus on regulatory compliance and strategic planning, the firm helps clients successfully navigate complex acquisitions and development challenges. Their attention to detail, market insight, and reliable execution make them a top choice among real estate law firms in Chicago.

Commercial Real Estate Transactions and Development
Zoning and Land Use Compliance
Permitting and Entitlement Support
Acquisitions and Dispositions
Representation for Developers and Institutional Investors
Strategic Legal Guidance in Chicago Real Estate

‍

Freeborn & Peters LLP

+1 312-360-6000
311 S Wacker Dr # 3000, Chicago, IL 60606, United States

Freeborn & Peters LLP is a highly respected real estate law firm in Chicago, recognized among the best real estate lawyers in Chicago for its comprehensive work in both real estate litigation and transactional law. The firm’s attorneys offer deep experience in a wide variety of real estate matters, including acquisitions, dispositions, lease negotiations, and property financing. Known for their strategic insight and meticulous attention to detail, the Freeborn & Peters team is trusted by clients ranging from real estate investors and developers to commercial landlords and tenants. With a strong command of Chicago’s competitive property landscape and evolving regulatory environment, the firm delivers reliable, tailored legal solutions that support both residential and commercial real estate goals. Their reputation for responsiveness, market knowledge, and results-driven service has made them a go-to firm in the Chicago real estate legal community.

Commercial and Residential Real Estate Transactions
Real Estate Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Lease Drafting, Review, and Negotiation
Property Acquisitions and Dispositions
Real Estate Finance and Lending Representation
Strategic Legal Counsel in the Chicago Market

‍

Goldberg Kohn Ltd.

+1 312-201-4000
55 E Monroe St Ste 3300, Chicago, IL 60603, United States

Goldberg Kohn Ltd. is a premier boutique real estate law firm in Chicago, consistently recognized among the best real estate lawyers in Chicago for its sophisticated and personalized legal services. The firm focuses on commercial real estate transactions, offering high-level counsel in real estate finance, joint ventures, and leasing. With a reputation for precision, responsiveness, and deep market knowledge, Goldberg Kohn represents a wide array of clients, including institutional lenders, real estate investors, and property owners. Their attorneys are known for crafting tailored legal strategies that address both the financial and regulatory complexities of today’s real estate market. Whether advising on a large-scale financing deal or negotiating a complex lease agreement, Goldberg Kohn delivers top-tier legal support that aligns with their clients’ long-term goals.

Commercial Real Estate Financing and Lending
Joint Ventures and Investment Structuring
Office, Retail, and Industrial Leasing Agreements
Representation for Lenders, Investors, and Property Owners
Real Estate Development and Transactional Support
Customized Legal Solutions in Chicago Real Estate

‍

Move from shortlist to hire with a structured outreach plan. In your scoping call, summarize asset type and location, current zoning/PD status, timeline drivers, financing (lender, proceeds, covenants), counterparty profile, and any entitlement or environmental flags. Ask for a conflicts check and a short memo within a few days covering: (1) key risks and gating approvals (zoning, PD/TOD, ARO obligations, river/lakefront, landmarks); (2) a diligence plan (title/ALTA survey objections, zoning letter/opinion scope, Phase I/II, MEP/structural where relevant); (3) closing mechanics (endorsements, estoppels/SNDAs, title cures, transfer-tax filings); and (4) a 60–90-day calendar with city/lender milestones and cure periods. Clarify staffing—lead partner, day-to-day associate, finance/land-use specialists—and an escalation path if a term stalls.

Compare firms on execution, not slogans. Do they routinely secure zoning letters/opinions lenders actually accept? Can they navigate ARO compliance, TOD bonus trade-offs, and PD amendments without blowing the schedule? Are they effective with title companies on exception cures (encroachments, access, legacy easements) and realistic about when an endorsement solves a problem vs. when you need a re-plat, variance, or PD tweak? For leasing, look for tested language on use, build-out, co-tenancy, OPEX audits, and casualty/condemnation. For development, confirm experience sequencing DPD/DOB reviews, CDOT curb-cut permits, MWRD stormwater approvals, and utility coordination alongside lender draws.

Fees and cadence should be transparent. Many Chicago real estate matters use hourly or blended rates; flat fees are common for defined closings or standard leases. Expect an evergreen retainer, monthly billing, and a clear list of what’s included (checklists, redlines, third-party coordination) vs. what triggers extras (contested entitlements, litigation, complex environmental). You should see an engagement letter, a closing calendar, and diligence lists for title, survey, estoppels/SNDAs, organizational approvals, and lender deliverables. Document control and weekly issues lists keep decisions moving; your lawyer should translate options into pros/cons with a recommendation at each gate.

Evaluate firms with a simple lens: responsiveness; clarity on risks vs. trade-offs; ability to keep momentum with city reviewers, lenders, title, and counterparties; courtroom or hearing-room credibility when disputes arise; and total fee transparency. Choose the Chicago real estate lawyer who makes you both faster and safer—one who can win on law, on facts, and on timing.

‍

Hiring Checklist — How to Choose a real estate Lawyer in Chicago

Define your matter, budget, and timeline.
Ask for 2–3 comparable matters and outcomes.
Confirm team staffing, partner touch, and availability.
Clarify fee model, retainer, and billing cadence.
Review a proposed diligence/closing plan and dates.
Ensure conflicts check and communication cadence.
Align on success metrics and next milestones.