Family Law

• Divorce
  We help resolve emotional points of contention that divorcing couples encounter. We provide guidance in matters of both contested and uncontested divorce and more including...
• Child Support
  Lisa assisted me with my child support and visitation case. She was very knowledgeable and confident. When ever I would call in a panic, both she and her assistant Sandy would give me reassurance and helped me to keep my piece of mind. My case ended in a positve way and I would have no hesitations in recommending her services.
• Child Custody and Visitation
  Divorce can lead to disagreements on child custody and support. Matters of custody and visitation are now referred to as "allocation of parental responsibility" and "allocation of parenting time." These complex matters require legal representation from attorneys with an understanding of the current laws. Specific criteria are necessary for drafting today's parenting plans in compliance with the statutes.
• Adoption
  Adoptions can be complex, but the results are tremendously rewarding. We can assist you with step-parent adoptions, private and agency adoptions, international adoptions, and same sex adoptions.
• Premarital Agreement
• Guardianship
  Guardianship is a process where an individual is assigned responsibility for the care another. This may be necessary when the parents of a minor have passed away, deemed no longer suitable to parent, or sent to prison. Guardians may also be appointed by courts for the care of adults who are disabled or incapacitated. A guardian acts on behalf of a minor or disabled adult, referred to as a "ward," according to the court's instructions and with the best interest of the individual in mind. Guardians may be appointed for general or limited roles of responsibility on behalf of a minor or disabled adult.
• Spousal Support
  Traditionally known as alimony, " spousal maintenance " may apply when ending a marriage—depending on the circumstances. Maintenance can be awarded for temporary or long-term periods. Considerations include the length of the marriage, health, age, and earning capacity of the parties. These decisions have serious financial outcomes for both spouses, which need to be analyzed and negotiated. We employ various tools such as negotiation and alternative dispute resolution to reach amicable solutions.

Criminal Law

• Criminal Defense
• DUI/DWI
  Accidents, regardless of the vehicles involved, are traumatic and often require skilled legal representation if an injury occurred. Two of the most unfortunate and avoidable causes of auto accidents result from drivers who are distracted by cell phones and those operating vehicles under the influence of alcohol. Although Illinois laws are meant to deter both distracted and drunk driving, many people still engage in these illegal activities and injury others. For over three decades, the attorneys at Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle & Goettel P.C. (AHR) have shown it is a serious matter to hold negligent parties and insurance providers accountable for their actions or inaction. Our clients are not required to pay unless we recover compensation on their behalf. We aggressively pursue all claims, and we do not hesitate to go to trial for a claim to obtain just compensation for our clients.
• Wrongful Death
  The Illinois Wrongful Death Act states that when a person's passing is caused by neglect or an otherwise wrongful act, the personal representative of the deceased (the surviving spouse, next of kin, etc.) can bring legal action for monetary and emotional damages. This applies to situations where, if death had not ensued, the party would have been entitled to bring such action. A jury may determine what they deem to be a fair amount of damages in these matters.
• Misdemeanors
  If the violation causes serious bodily injury, the driver may be charged with a Class A misdemeanor, or in cases where death has resulted, a Class 4 felony.

Business and Corporate Law

• Corporate Law
  The contract law attorneys at AHR are backed by over three decades of experience in complex cases regarding business and corporate litigation. Far too many contractual disputes could have been avoided if parties had been represented by seasoned legal professionals from the start. To coordinate a consultation, contact our Fox River Valley area office today at 847-695-2400.
• Mergers and Acquisitions
  For several decades, AHR has helped countless clients with complex legal concerns. Our mergers & acquisitions attorneys are diligent in executing the best course of action for the businesses we serve. Growing a business takes time, careful planning and solid decision-making. When you are ready to make a major change in business, contracts serve as a foundation for the process.
• Business Formation
  Corporations also offer protection from personal liability but do not offer the tax flexibility of an LLC. While a corporation is one of the most complex structures to create, it can be the best move for businesses who wish to be recognized globally, have plans for eventual public trading and wish to attract investors. Our experienced business formation attorneys can help simplify the process and help you weigh the pros and cons of choosing a particular structure.
• Business Disputes
  The landscape of transactional and litigation-related matters of contract law can be complex. Contract disputes may arise in cases of a breach among manufacturers, distributors, lenders, partners, employers and employees, and more. Those involved in these matters should consider consulting a contract dispute lawyer at the law firm of Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle & Goettel, P.C. (AHR). Our firm has extensive experience assisting individuals and businesses throughout the Fox River Valley area for decades.
• Business Transactions
  Conducting due diligence for transactions involved with financing and lending, as well as drafting, revising and negotiating contracts, and commercial transactions
• Limited Liability Companies
  In today's challenging business environment, having legal assistance from an attorney who truly understands broad corporate challenges, as well as the intricacies of your specific organization and industry is critical. There are important legal challenges facing corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and partnerships in sectors such as manufacturing, IT, real estate, banking, energy, and health care.
• Trade Secrets
• Intellectual Property

Employment Law

• Employment Contract
  The lawyers at AHR have the knowledge and experience to compose, interpret, review, and negotiate contracts across the spectrum from those involving small businesses, established organizations, and major corporations. Many of the contracts that we are involved with are transactions associated with forming, expanding, or purchasing a business. Much of contract law involves employment, which may include employment agreements, non-compete contracts and agreements for confidentiality, and trade secrets.
• Employment Litigation
  At AHR, we strive to meet and exceed the expectations of our clients in matters involving commercial real estate. Rather than simply providing a successful outcome for a single matter of representation, we look to develop long-term relationships which extend into many areas of practice, such as general counsel, employment issues, and ongoing zoning work. Contact our office today at 847-695-2400 to obtain the legal assistance you need to navigate the volatile commercial real estate market.

Property Law

• Real Estate Litigation
  While every home sale is unique, there is at least one variable that will never change -- protection. Protect your investment by securing the help of a time-tested, reputable real estate law firm. At Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle & Goettel, P.C. (AHR), we understand that a decision to sell a property should never be taken lightly.
• Premises Liability
  The Illinois Premises Liability Act outlines the duty that those who own or have control of property must afford to lawful entrants. Owners have an obligation to warn visitors of potentially harmful conditions that they are aware of (or should be) unless the conditions are clear or obviously apparent. This does not apply to those who are unknowingly trespassing on the property unless the owner willfully or maliciously causes an injury. Those injured may be entitled to recovery for damages through civil actions for medical care, missed work, pain, hardship, and other issues.
• Real Estate Transactions
  Commercial real estate transactions in Illinois require skilled handling and tenacity. Real estate investors, buyers, and landlords can benefit from retaining the services of a knowledgeable commercial real estate attorney to guide them through complex issues. From corporate and landlord leasing to evaluating a potential purchase, an experienced attorney is a necessity.
• Eminent Domain
• Easement
• Land Use and Zoning
  Karrsten Goettel concentrates his practice in the areas of commercial and residential real estate, real estate development, leasing, zoning and land use, business, merger and acquisition transactions (sales and purchases of assets and/or stock), corporate and business law and estate planning and administration. He has practiced among our firm's attorneys since 1997 and as a partner since 2002.
• Landlord-Tenant Disputes
  A lease agreement between a landlord and tenant allows the tenant to occupy a property in exchange for compensation, typically rent. The tenant, or renting party, may violate or break a lease in several ways, including failure to pay the rent when due, failing to execute an obligation, committing prohibited acts, causing damage to the property, or failing to vacate the premises following the expiration of the lease.
• Property Damage
  Far too many landlords fail to recognize the importance of interpreting the many facets of key laws related to renting or leasing commercial real estate. Throughout our many years of working with both property owners and tenants, we have established and implemented methods to assist our clients with issues such as non-payment of rent, lease breaches and violations, violations of ordinances, repairs, property damage, injuries, discrimination, and evictions.
• Condominium Law
  Being a landlord can be a rewarding, yet challenging experience. Maybe you built a corporate space, updated a multi-unit apartment complex or took over a condominium development. No matter what the circumstances of your landlord-tenant or corporate leasing arrangement maybe, it helps to have legal representation you can trust.

Health Law

• Personal Injury
  The state of Illinois ranks as sixth in the number of motorcycle registrations in the United States, with over 350,000 motorcyclists in total. Unfortunately, motorcycle operators are at an increased risk of severe injury when collisions occur. After experiencing a motorcycle accident, it is important to resist the temptation to accept settlement offers from insurance providers, as typically they are insufficient. An experienced personal injury lawyer from Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle Goettel, P.C. (AHR) can investigate the circumstances and strive for truly viable financial retribution.
• Auto Accidents
• Dog Bites
  These conditions can result in a number of possible injuries, including slip-and-fall related injuries that can range from minor scrapes and bruises to more serious conditions such as broken bones or brain trauma, dog bites, drowning, or severe injuries caused by gas explosions, fires, or toxic chemical exposure.
• Slip and Fall Injury
  Slip-and-Fall Injury: Food and drinks are frequently spilled on floors, making for slippery conditions. Staff is likely to mop floors at times and may neglect the need to place signs in these area(s) prior to drying.

Trusts and Estates

• Estate Planning
  In Kane County, probate matters are administered by the Civil Division of the Sixteenth County Circuit Court. The skilled attorneys at Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle & Goettel, P.C. (AHR) are experienced in estate planning and probate proceedings and has been assisting clients throughout the Fox River Valley area for over three decades.
• Wills
  A will is a document defining how a person's assets will be allocated after death and is governed by Illinois law. Individuals must be 18 years old and mentally competent to create a will, which must be completed in writing and signed in the presence of two witnesses. A will designates the beneficiaries of assets and names an executor to manage the process of identifying heirs and legatees, paying legitimate debts distributing assets to the person(s) indicated in your last will and testament. After death, a will is brought to the court to confirm validity prior to carrying out the provisions listed.
• Trusts
  Generally, those who are disabled are eligible for governmental benefits including Medicaid and Supplementary Security Income (SSI). If a relative or loved one were to leave a disabled individual a gift or inheritance, it may jeopardize their ability to remain within the limitations for continued program eligibility. Special Needs Trusts, also referred to as Supplemental Needs Trusts, are established to allow disabled individuals to accrue assets and income without reducing their SSI benefits or Medicaid eligibility. The law does not allow disabled people to maintain their own trusts; therefore, a trustee is designated to manage the account.
• Power of Attorney
  The legal team at Ariano Hardy Ritt Nyuli Richmond Lytle & Goettel, P.C. (AHR) has been creating comprehensive estate plans for clients for over three decades. Our lawyers help you plan and document the allocation of your assets, based on your wishes when you pass away. It is important to formulate written plans that clearly indicate your intentions, which may consist of wills, trusts, designation of life insurance beneficiaries, powers of attorney, and more. This ensures your intentions are realized and limits potential disputes among heirs, preserves assets, and prevents unnecessary taxation. We can assist you with any number of estate planning documents in order to help protect your loved ones and prepare for the future.
• Probate

Finance Law

• Foreclosure
  Gather all relevant paperwork such as the title policy, deed and survey. If you have a mortgage on the property, bring a current billing statement with the loan account information. If you are in a mortgage foreclosure you will also want to bring any paperwork related to the foreclosure action.
• Tax Law
  It is highly recommended that you seek assistance from an attorney who will address the future of your estate as part of a comprehensive plan. For over six decades, AHR has effectively assisted clients with wills, trusts, tax planning, and probate matters. We encourage you to contact our office at 847-695-2400 for a free consultation.
• Debt Collection
  Lenders or creditors who are seeking to recover unpaid debt often utilize a collection agency. However, debt collection attorneys often have enhanced legal options beyond what is available to traditional collection agencies. At AHR, our team of skilled collections attorneys understands the latest developments to the laws at federal, state, and local levels, and we can assist in collecting of outstanding debts related to commercial loans, equipment financing, mechanic's liens, judgment enforcements, and more.