Vasselli Law: A Dedicated Legal Partner for local governments (Chicago, IL) — The Village of Dixmoor last year was notified by the Illinois Council of Police about a backlog of union dues the Village owed for 2022 and 2023.
The total owed to ICOP for the two-year period was $3,666. The payment issue was nothing more than oversight, but it was the kind of situation that could have ended up costing the Village even more than what was owed if the union filed a lawsuit. That is when Village attorney James Vasselli stepped in to prevent a potential problem for Dixmoor.
He worked directly with the union to provide the Village with some time to review payment records and independently corroborate the amount owed to the union. Once both sides agreed on the amount owed, the Village issued a check and James’s hand-delivered the check to ensure an amicable resolution.
“Jimmy goes above and beyond when it comes to working for our community,” said Dixmoor Village President Fitzgerald Roberts. “I can’t tell you the number of times I have called him on weekends and even late at night and he is always available and always willing to help our community. That kind of commitment and dedication is rare, but it is what really defines who he is a person and as an attorney.”
Glen Leonard, who runs GLW Boxing, is a boxing trainer who has trained Jimmy for more than 10 years. He said they call Jimmy “Gun Boat” after the old-World War II gun boats.
“We call him Gun Boat because he is like a gun boat blasting people out of the water,” Leonard said. “He’s coming at you no matter what with both guns a blazing. Nobody works harder. His determination is unmatched. He is coming straight at you, and he is prepared whether it is in the court room in the ring. We don’t call him Gun Boat for nothing.”
With a unique combination of experience, deep expertise, and a genuine commitment to client success, Vasselli Law is not just a legal firm, it’s a partner dedicated to navigating the intricacies of governance, development, and the business landscape.
A Personalized Approach to Complex Legal Challenges
At Vasselli Law, the firm’s philosophy goes beyond traditional legal advisory services. The firm’s mantra of being “Able, Accessible, and Affable” reflects a commitment to not only providing top-tier legal guidance but also ensuring clients feel heard, understood, and supported throughout their journey.
“We believe legal expertise should be paired with a personal touch,” said James Vasselli, the firm’s founding partner. “Our clients’ goals define our success, and we measure it in their peace of mind, satisfaction, and the tangible outcomes they achieve through our work.”
Whether advising municipalities on compliance with public ethics laws, helping businesses navigate real estate transactions, or representing clients in litigation, Vasselli Law is committed to fostering long-lasting relationships with every client. From the very first conversation, the firm’s attorneys prioritize open communication and strategic thinking, tailoring their services to meet each client’s specific needs and challenges.
A Firm That Understands the Local Landscape
Founded by James Vasselli, an attorney with more than two decades of experience in municipal law, public finance, real estate, and labor law, Vasselli Law brings a wealth of knowledge to every project. Vasselli’s expertise has shaped the success of multiple high-profile developments, including securing tax increment financing (TIF) and enterprise zone incentives that have brought millions of dollars in investment to Northern Illinois.
“Helping our clients turn their vision into reality is one of the most fulfilling aspects of our work,” said Vasselli, whose dedication has earned him recognition from both local municipalities and development organizations alike. “From the complexities of zoning and land use to structuring financial deals, our team is here to clear the path and ensure success.”
One of the core principles at Vasselli Law is the belief that the true measure of success isn’t in billable hours or courtroom victories, but in the outcomes for the clients. Whether it’s securing a favorable outcome in a high-stakes labor dispute or helping a municipality comply with the latest regulations, the firm’s attorneys remain focused on the client’s ultimate success.
“Our clients come first, and we work tirelessly to ensure their interests are protected,” said Vasselli. “Legal challenges can be overwhelming, but with the right guidance, our clients not only overcome obstacles—they thrive. From our office manager Sharon Ferguson to our paralegal Nate Lefebvre and the lawyers in our firm, Vasselli Law is singularly focused on our clients.”
This approach is one that is not only recognized by clients but also by people on the opposite side of legal matters.
“I have tremendous respect for James Vasselli and the work he does,” said Daniel Shapiro, mayor of Deerfield. “He and I are on the opposite side of a legal matter, and I can see why communities hire him. James is tenacious and will fight hard for his clients, but he will do it in an ethical manner.”
In addition to representing municipalities, Vasselli Law’s team is equally equipped to manage all aspects of real estate development—from site acquisition, zoning approvals, and financing to construction contracts and lease negotiations. Their ability to manage the intricate regulations and reduce risk allows developers to stay focused on the big picture: turning blueprints into thriving properties that drive economic growth.
Beyond Real Estate: A Full Spectrum of Legal Services
Vasselli Law’s practice is as diverse as the clients it serves. In addition to real estate and municipal law, the firm provides expertise in a range of areas, including employment law, civil litigation, contract disputes, and public-private partnerships. Whether dealing with regulatory compliance, corporate governance, or labor disputes, the firm’s attorneys offer creative, effective solutions for a wide range of legal challenges.
Key partners at Vasselli Law, including Erin K. Kiernat, Eric T. Stach, and Edward E. Campbell, bring specialized knowledge to the table. Kiernat has played an instrumental role in guiding municipalities through multi-million-dollar redevelopment initiatives, while Stach’s extensive experience in drafting ordinances and guiding municipalities through complex legal issues has made him a sought-after advisor.
Erin K. Kiernat, a founding partner, has earned a reputation for her sharp negotiation skills and expertise in municipal law, successfully guiding clients through complex zoning, regulatory, and economic development challenges. She played a pivotal role in several high-profile projects, including the redevelopment of a major Wal-Mart supercenter and a $450 million redevelopment initiative.
“I know every time I call Erin, I will have the answers I need in a timely manner,” said Juanita Darden, Village Clerk for Dixmoor. “Her professionalism and knowledge of the law is unparalleled.”
Eric T. Stach, a founding partner at Vasselli Law, LLC, has more than 20 years of experience as a legal advisor to municipalities in Illinois. He specializes in municipal law, zoning, land use, real estate, and litigation, offering comprehensive counsel that integrates legal compliance with community development. Stach has served as municipal attorney for various local governments, drafting and reviewing numerous ordinances and implementing affordable housing plans. His litigation experience includes defending government clients in various civil matters. With a background as a Village Trustee and roles in the Illinois General Assembly, he possesses a deep understanding of the political landscape.
Edward E. Campbell, the firm’s of-counsel civil litigator, brings decades of experience in commercial disputes and municipal litigation. His strategic insights have led to victories in high-stakes cases, including a multi-million-dollar bondholder lawsuit and a road construction dispute.
Amalia S. Rioja is an experienced attorney with 30 years in government relations, public-private partnerships, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance. She focuses primarily on labor and employment law; Freedom of Information requests and Open Meetings Act matters.
Michael S. Garrigan is an experienced attorney and certified urban planner with over 30 years of service, advising municipalities in Illinois on various aspects of land use and community development. He has held leadership roles, managing teams and budgets while leading significant initiatives in zoning and historic preservation. Garrigan focuses primarily on land use and zoning.
Your Legal Partner for the Long Term
Vasselli Law’s commitment to excellence, accessibility, and affability makes it the go-to legal partner for individuals and organizations throughout Illinois.
“I am impressed with the ability of James and his team to navigate complex legal issues with such ease and professionalism,” said Paula McCombie, mayor of South Barrington. “I highly recommend this firm. They will work harder, fight harder and prepare harder than anyone else and they won’t break the bank.”
Vasselli Law: A Dedicated Legal Partner for local governments
