Julie B. Ruder, Litigation Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

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

• Litigation

  View other Litigation attorneys

Julie's primary office is at 219 S. Dearborn St., Ste. 5000, Chicago, IL, 60604. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Julie for a litigation case?

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

• Does Julie offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do litigation cases in Illinois typically take?

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

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

  Julie 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 — Julie 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 Julie?

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

• Is Julie accepting new litigation clients right now?

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