Florence M. Schumacher, Appellate Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

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

• Appellate

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• Insurance

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Florence's primary office is at 20 N. Clark St., Ste. 1400, Chicago, IL, 60602-4112. 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 Florence usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Florence 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 Florence for a appellate case?

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

• Does Florence offer a free consultation?

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

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

  Florence 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 — Florence 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 Florence?

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

• Is Florence accepting new appellate clients right now?

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