Business Details
Your Trusted Legal Partner in Springfield, IL
Brown Hay & Stephens stands as the oldest law firm in Illinois, rooted in a legacy of legal excellence since 1828. Our practice began with founder John Todd Stuart in Springfield and evolved into a trusted institution known for integrity, competence, and client-focused representation. With a history that includes notable figures like Abraham Lincoln, we have maintained an unwavering commitment to delivering practical, ethical legal counsel. Our attorneys combine deep expertise with a hands-on approach, serving diverse clients across business, government, and individual sectors. Located in Springfield, our proximity to state and federal courts enables direct engagement with Illinois' legislative, executive, and judicial branches.We prioritize relationships, self-motivation, and collaboration while upholding a reputation built over nearly two centuries. Our team actively contributes to the legal profession and local communities, ensuring accessibility and responsiveness in all our interactions. This enduring philosophy guides our representation in administrative law, business litigation, estate planning, and more than 20 specialized practice areas. By focusing on long-term client partnerships and quality legal work, we continue to serve as a cornerstone of Illinois' legal landscape.
Services
Administrative Law
Business Litigation
Estate Planning
Criminal Defense
Real Estate Law
Bankruptcy
Family Law
Appellate Practice
Medical Malpractice
Labor Law
Highlights and features
- We offer 197 years of continuous legal experience since 1828
- Our team includes specialized attorneys in 20+ practice areas
- Direct access to Illinois government branches and federal courts
- Maintain one of Illinois' most respected legal reputations
- Active community involvement by all attorneys and staff
Services
Administrative Law
Our administrative law practice represents clients before state and federal regulatory agencies. We handle rulemaking proceedings, licensing matters, and enforcement actions while leveraging our Springfield location's proximity to government decision-makers. Clients benefit from our deep understanding of regulatory frameworks and decades of experience navigating complex bureaucratic processes.
Estate Planning
We create comprehensive estate plans tailored to individual needs, including wills, trusts, and advanced directives. Our attorneys consider tax implications, family dynamics, and long-term care planning while maintaining continuity through generational changes. This practice area combines technical expertise with personalized guidance for asset protection and legacy preservation.
Business Litigation
Our business litigation team handles complex commercial disputes in state and federal courts. We represent corporations and entrepreneurs in contract disputes, shareholder conflicts, and business torts while emphasizing practical solutions that align with commercial objectives. Our proximity to Illinois' judicial centers enhances our courtroom effectiveness and strategic decision-making.
Criminal Defense
We defend individuals and businesses facing criminal charges at state and federal levels. Our approach combines aggressive advocacy with strategic negotiations to achieve optimal outcomes. The practice covers DUI defense, white-collar crimes, and other criminal matters while maintaining client confidentiality throughout the legal process.
Real Estate Law
Our real estate practice handles commercial and residential transactions, zoning issues, and property disputes. We represent developers, lenders, and property owners in acquisitions, leasing, and land use matters. Clients benefit from our understanding of Illinois-specific regulations and our ability to coordinate with related practice areas like banking and environmental law.
People
Brooke M. Burke
Associate Attorney
Specializing in criminal defense and estate planning, Brooke M. Burke combines legal expertise with client-focused representation. Her practice emphasizes practical solutions for individuals facing legal challenges while maintaining active involvement in local legal organizations.
Brandon R. Clark
Partner
As a partner focusing on business law and estate planning, Brandon R. Clark provides strategic counsel to corporate clients and individuals. His practice balances transactional work with litigation preparedness, drawing on extensive experience in Illinois business regulations.
Charles Y. Davis
Managing Partner
Leading the firm as Managing Partner, Charles Y. Davis oversees operations while maintaining an active practice in business law and banking. His leadership combines tradition with innovation, ensuring the firm's continued excellence in legal services.
Roland R. Cross
Partner
Partner Roland R. Cross specializes in education law and family law matters. His practice focuses on protecting client interests in complex family disputes and educational institution representation while maintaining a strong courtroom presence.
Daniel L. Hamilton
Partner
Daniel L. Hamilton practices administrative law and intellectual property, representing clients before regulatory agencies and in IP protection matters. His work combines technical understanding with strategic legal advocacy to protect client innovations.
Questions
What areas of law does Brown Hay Stephens specialize in?
We offer comprehensive legal services across 20+ practice areas including administrative law, business litigation, estate planning, criminal defense, and real estate law.
How can I schedule a consultation with an attorney?
Contact our offices via phone at 888-666-8491 or visit our website to arrange an in-person meeting with our legal team.
What makes Brown Hay Stephens different from other law firms?
As Illinois' oldest law firm since 1828, we combine historical expertise with modern legal strategies while maintaining direct access to state and federal courts.
Do you serve clients outside of Springfield?
While based in Springfield, we serve clients across Illinois including Decatur and Bloomington through our multiple office locations.
Are consultations confidential?
Initial consultations help determine if we can formally represent you, but confidentiality protections apply only after establishing an attorney-client relationship in writing.
