Founding Attorney –Phil Haddad, J.D.
Phil Haddad is a Chicago criminal defense attorney known for his precision, courtroom command, and relentless advocacy for clients facing the most serious criminal charges in Cook County and the surrounding collar counties. For over a decade, Phil has dedicated his practice exclusively to criminal defense—building a reputation as a strategic, results-driven litigator with a deep understanding of Illinois criminal law and local courthouse dynamics.
Phil has successfully defended clients in cases involving homicide, weapons offenses, drug trafficking, violent crimes, sex offenses, armed robbery, burglary, financial crimes, and vehicular hijacking. He is also widely respected for his ability to secure not guilty verdicts, obtain dismissals through pre-trial motions, and negotiate resolutions that preserve his clients’ freedom, reputation, and future.
Awards & Recognitions
- Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star – Criminal Defense
- Top 40 Under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Illinois – The National Trial Lawyers
- Litigator of the Year – American Institute of Trial Lawyers
- Recognized for excellence in complex felony litigation, suppression motions, and trial advocacy
Strategic Defense for all Criminal Matters
Clients choose Phil because he offers personalized, high-stakes representation with absolute discretion and direct attorney access. Every case is handled with boutique-level attention—no assembly-line approach, and no shortcuts. Phil ensures each client receives elite-level strategy, communication, and preparation.
Phil represents individuals throughout Cook County who need an attorney capable of acting immediately, decisively, and with a clear plan forward.
Courtroom Philosophy
Phil believes every client deserves:
- Aggressive protection of constitutional rights
- Meticulous investigation and motion practice
- Strategic negotiation based on leverage—not fear
- Fearless trial advocacy when the State refuses to do the right thing
Whether the case calls for suppression litigation, trial, or delicate negotiations, Phil approaches every matter with the mindset that a person’s entire life is on the line.
Education & Background
- J.D., John Marshall Law School – Chicago
- B.A. DePaul University – Chicago
- Over a decade of concentrated experience in Chicago criminal defense
- Deep familiarity with the procedures, judges, and prosecutors in all Cook County courthouses
Client-Centered Representation
Phil is known not only for his results but also for his approachability, responsiveness, and commitment to understanding each client’s life story. He takes time to learn about a client’s family, background, employment, and future goals—because these factors often become critical in mitigation, negotiations, and crafting a defense strategy that protects more than just a case… it protects a life.
Practice Areas
- Homicide & Murder Defense
- Attempted Murder
- Weapons Offenses
- Drug Trafficking & Delivery Charges
- Violent Crimes
- Sex Crimes
- Robbery & Burglary
- Vehicular Hijacking
- Financial Crimes
- DUI & Traffic Offenses
24/7 Availability for Emergencies
Phil offers emergency jail and police station visits for individuals and families in crisis. Whether someone has been arrested overnight, detained at a station, or placed into custody, Phil responds swiftly and strategically to protect their rights from the very beginning.
