In Brief
We cultivate a collaborative, inclusive culture where our team shares knowledge and stays informed on legal developments. We value diversity, as different perspectives strengthen our ability to solve problems and advocate effectively. Beyond our legal services, we prioritize building relationships through internal events that promote camaraderie and a positive environment. This culture empowers us to deliver exceptional legal services and contributions to our clients and communities.
In Brief
Education Reform Legislation Awaits Governor’s Signature
By Robbins Schwartz |
On May 12, 2011, the Illinois House of Representatives took final action to pass Senate Bill 7. This bill has been forwarded to the Governor for action and is currently…
The Incredible Shrinking Tax Base for 2011 Taxes
By Robbins Schwartz |
Public Act 096-1083 Could Give Rise to Increased Assessment Appeals For school districts and other units of local governments that rely upon property taxes for substantial portions of their funds,…
Appellate Court Ruling a Reminder to Public Officials: Certain Public Offices Are Incompatible and Cannot Be Held Simultaneously
By Robbins Schwartz |
The First District Appellate Court in the case of People ex rel. Anita Alvarez v. Keith Price, __ Ill. App. 3d __, 2011 WL 947130 (1st Dist. 2011), affirmed the holding…
FOIA UPDATE: Binding Opinions and Pre-Approval Letters Issued by the Public Access Counselor
By Robbins Schwartz |
It has been over one (1) year since the amended Freedom of Information Act (“FOIA”) took effect. While some of the initial questions and concerns about amended FOIA have been…
Appellate Court finds Municipalities Must Pay 100% of Insurance Premiums for Injured Public Safety Employees from Date of Injury
By Robbins Schwartz |
In the recent Appellate Court decision of Nowak v. City of Country Club Hills, the First District Appellate Court, which has jurisdiction of Cook County and the Chicago collar counties, determined…
Employee Dismissals and RIF Layoff Checklist
By Robbins Schwartz |
This In Brief will summarize school districts’ obligations under The School Code for non-reemployment and dismissal of non-tenured teachers and reduction-in-force (“RIF”) of tenured teachers and educational support staff (“ESP”).…
Pension Changes to Affect Article 3 and Article 4 Pension Funds
By Robbins Schwartz |
On December 30, 2010, Governor Quinn signed Senate Bill 3538 into law (P.A. 96-1495, the “Act” ), completing Illinois’ pension reform for 2010, which has effected changes in all of…
Court Rejects Challenge to Sycamore Transfer Tax and Permits Transfer of Tax Revenue to School District
By Robbins Schwartz |
In a victory for Illinois taxing bodies, the Illinois appellate court affirmed dismissal of a challenge to the City of Sycamore’s transfer tax which was enacted to provide additional operating…
The Illinois Whistleblower Act – Amended Again
By Robbins Schwartz |
The Illinois Whistleblower Act (the “Act”) (740 ILCS 174/1 et seq.) strikes fear in the hearts of many employers. This is due to the statutory damages associated with employer violations,…
2011 Consolidated Election Calendar
By Robbins Schwartz |
CHANGED DEADLINES ARE QUICKLY APPROACHING THANKS TO RECENT LEGISLATION Public Act 96-1008, which became effective July 6, 2010, has changed many deadlines pertinent to the election responsibilities of board secretaries…