Lara A. Rutenberg-Austrins, General Attorney in Chicago, Illinois

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

• General

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• International

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Lara's primary office is at 150 North Michigan Ave., Ste. 2700, Chicago, IL, 60601-7576. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

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

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

• How much does it cost to hire Lara for a general case?

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

• Does Lara offer a free consultation?

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

• How long do general cases in Illinois typically take?

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

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

  Lara 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 — Lara 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 Lara?

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

• Is Lara accepting new general clients right now?

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