Claudette’s cross-disciplinary experience in litigation and administrative law/government relations allows her to analyze complex problems and counsel clients on the most effective and economic solutions, be they judicial, administrative/regulatory or legislative. Some representative projects include:Litigation (Challenges to Constitutional/Statutory/Regulatory Authority; Administrative Law; Appellate)

Representing taxpayers against then-Governor Blagojevich and state agency in state court action successfully challenging defendants’ unilaterally instituted insurance program as unconstitutional and unauthorized and, after obtaining order enjoining the program, on appeal to the Illinois Appellate and Supreme Courts. Testifying before Illinois House Special Investigative Committee about the case, which became part of the articles of impeachment.
Representing taxpayers, trade associations and industry members in a wide array of actions involving alcoholic beverage laws and rules, including state court taxpayer action (and the subsequent appeals to the Illinois Appellate and Supreme Courts) against then-Governor Quinn and state officials challenging constitutionality of capital budget legislation, including increased liquor taxes, representing distributors’ trade association in obtaining favorable ruling in federal court Commerce Clause challenge to Illinois Liquor Control Commission’s interpretation of Illinois’ liquor laws, and representing an amicus in the landmark U.S. Supreme Court Granholm case on the constitutionality of state wine shipment laws.
Representing a video gaming licensee in successfully obtaining a temporary restraining order against the Illinois Gaming Board.
Representing (as Special States Attorney) a county chairman and county board in two state court lawsuits. First, successfully obtained a preliminary injunction against the county clerk in the county clerk’s lawsuit about the powers and authority, particularly the budgetary authority, of county boards and officials under Illinois’ Constitution and laws, which the Illinois Appellate Court affirmed. Second, successfully obtained summary judgment in a challenge to the county’s annual budget processes and its compliance with state and local laws related to salaries and raises.
Representing a hospital in successfully restraining board of review from placing assessed valuation on tax-exempt hospital property.
Representing financing authority in successful defense of constitutional challenge to financing of Soldier Field stadium renovation.