James A Doppke

Jim represented me in an ARDC investigation and trial. While he touted his experience working at the ARDC the reality is he may as well still work for them. Throughout the investigation and especially at trial Jim Doppke went out of his way to not “upset” his ARDC friends. Among many other things, he... failed to impeach witnesses, refused to fight for my right to have character witnesses, refused to deny prosecution witnesses from sitting in court, refused to object to their jeering, refused to support the motion that I had to bring myself to allow a paralegal to sit in court, etc, etc. After trial, where I lost on all counts (surprise) he asked for an additional $25k for an appeal. I went pro se thereafter under the belief that I could do better not knowing anything about ethics litigation or appellate practice versus Jim Doppke playing on his iPad during trial.

I retained Jim for a professional responsibility matter in Illinois. Without going into details for obvious reasons, his representation, without fail, was excellent. In nervously walking into the ARDC for my sworn statement, I was put at ease with how Jim was greeted by both the investigator and al...l the professional staff. His exceptional reputation was apparent. His knowledge of process from his time at the ARDC and his practical -- yet effective -- approach to problems led to a favorable outcome. He was always responsive, talked sense into me when it was needed, and was empathetic to my situation. Hire him without reservation and do so early.

I referred a future associate to Mr. Doppke after he had some issues with the Character and Fitness Board. We were not sure if he was going to get a license due to an encounter between a member of the board and him. He went to another attorney previously who told him that he was out of luck and that... she could do nothing to help. Mr. Doppke was polite, professional and empathetic while honest enough to tell what was needed to hear. He charged on an hourly retainer agreement and ended up fixing the issue without charging too many hours. We are both eternally grateful to him and can't give enough praises.