Ethan G. Zelizer

PRO

Ethan G. Zelizer

also known as 630.551.8645

4.9
Rating: 10.0

Licensed for 22 years

Employment and labor Lawyer at Chicago, IL
Practice Areas: Employment & Labor, Discrimination, Contracts & Agreements ... +3 more

333 S Wacker, Suite 500, Chicago, IL

Virtual Consultation Available

About Ethan

Biography

Severance, Unpaid Wages/Overtime, Discrimination, Retaliation, Trade Secrets, Non-Competes, Executive Compensation. We handle all employment law matters.

Executive Compensation, Human Resources, Labor & Employment Solutions.

Executive Compensation, Human Resources, Labor & Employment Solutions.

Executive Compensation, Human Resources, Labor & Employment Solutions.

Executive Compensation, Human Resources, Labor & Employment Solutions.

Practice Areas

6

Practice Areas

Contracts and Agreements 20%

23 years | 100 cases

20%
Discrimination 20%

23 years | 100 cases

20%
Employment and Labor 20%

23 years | 100 cases

20%
Wrongful Termination 20%

23 years | 100 cases

20%
Employee Benefits 10%

10%
Sexual Harassment 10%

10%

Fees and Rates

Cost

Contingency

33%-33%

Retainer

Sometimes


Payment Methods

  • Cash
  • Check
  • Credit Card

Awards

Client's Choice
Client's Choice
2024 2022 2021
...
+ 4
Top Contributor
Top Contributor
2015

Licenses

Licensed in Illinois for 22 years

State: Illinois

Acquired: 2003

Active and Authorized to Practice Law

No misconduct found

Location

HR Law Counsel, LLC

333 S Wacker, Suite 500, Chicago, IL, 60606

hrlawcounsel.com/

HR Law Counsel, LLC

29 S. Webster Street, Suite 350-C, Naperville, IL, 60540

hrlawcounsel.com/

Ethan G. Zelizer's Reviews

Avvo Review Score

5.0 /5.0

153 Client Reviews

Showing 36 - 40 of 153 reviews

Posted by anonymous | March 13, 2018 | Employment & Labor

Informative and Helpful

I engaged Ethan recently on a potential non-compete case. He took time to speak with me and help me understand what I could be up against. He was responsive and very professional - I feel 100% confident in using him for counsel should I need to move forward with an actual case. Ethan seems like th...e kind of lawyer you want on your side and I'm happy to have found him!

Posted by Krishna | March 05, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Employment & Labor

Senior Vice President and General Manager

In 2017 I was faced with a difficult employment separation involving vested and unvested stock equity, a far reaching non-compete, and many other challenging issues. I quickly sought legal representation and evaluated several attorneys from small to large-sized firms. None were able to really grasp ...all of the issues I was facing and provide a cogent strategy for how to move forward. I finally found Ethan and I was thoroughly impressed with his knowledge of employment law and the broader legal and regulatory context my former employer operates under. I hired him immediately and he wasted no time getting to work. He conducted an extensive review of all of the facts and devised a strategy to negotiate a great separation that allowed me to get everything I needed and wanted. He’s simply one of the most powerful lawyers I’ve ever run into in my career and yet unassuming. You definitely want him on your side if you are going toe-to toe against a large, well-funded adversary because he’s going to fight and win.

Posted by John | January 26, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Employment & Labor

Incredible Experience

I am the CEO of the US division of an international company. Ethan assisted me in leaving my previous executive position. After thoroughly reviewing my non-compete and counseling me on what I could and could not do moving forward, he assisted me in renegotiating my exit so that I could keep working ...in the industry without problems. I then relied on Ethan to negotiate my new executive employment and compensation packages with my new employer. Ethan negotiated the perfect package -- which exceeded my initial expectations -- and in the process, looked so good in front of my new employer that it has authorized me to use Ethan's firm for our US employment work. This guy works magic. He is thoughtful, down to earth, responsive, goal-oriented and strategically focused on what matters. I cannot imagine where I would be if not for Ethan's expert guidance and negotiating on my behalf. He is well worth the investment.

Posted by Joseph Esposito | January 25, 2018 | Employment & Labor

A man of his word

I was recently let go from my job after 16 years of service. Upon release I was presented with a separation agreement that had a few clauses in it that I felt would make it difficult to gain employment in a close knit industry. I called 6 different firms that either wanted a $1K retainer to discuss t...he agreement or did not even take the time to return my call or email. I reached out to Ethan and within a day, he contacted me to discuss my situation. After determining that there was not a conflict, Ethan requested a copy of the agreement so that he could review it. The next morning I received a call from Ethan and we discussed the agreement at great length. He went over all of my concerns and even talked with me about parts of the agreement that I was not giving attention to. By the end of our call, I felt comfortable with the agreement and how it would not adversely affect future employment. Ethan's thoroughness and patience were a welcome surprise, especially since this was a no cost consultation. I feel that he went above and beyond my expectations and will recommend him to anyone that is looking for an employment attorney. Once I land on my feet I will be reaching out to Ethan to review any documents that my future employer requires.

Posted by anonymous | January 18, 2018 | Hired Attorney | Employment & Labor

Empathetic and Unrelenting "Bulldog"

I first met Ethan in late 2016 due to a breach of employment contract. I was a President recruited to turnaround a recently acquired subsidiary in the market where I lived. The contract contained a back-end LTI on sale of company, which was to occur in 18-24 months. After much of the heavy lifting ...completed over 8 months, the company decided to switch gears: and demanded I take a reduction in pay, title and cancellation of the LTI. I said no, and was terminated. I carefully reviewed my employment contract, and started searching for legal advice. Ethan's positive review history led to our initial phone call. After the first call and subsequent live meeting, Ethan put himself in my shoes; and "walked the walk". He explained his own personal experiences that aligned very closely with my own. He helped me through the disbelief, anger, and loss of self-worth I was feeling. The communication was excellent via phone, text, and email, and Ethan was almost always available when I needed him. He was very careful to explain legal jargon and options, and had unwavering support for me. After months of negotiating across multiple venues in 2 states, Ethan was able to negotiate a settlement on my behalf. My family and I are so appreciative of Ethan's efforts, and would highly recommend him to anyone that needs his services. He's the big brother you need to stand up for you.

Ethan Zelizer

Replied last May 17, 2024

Thank you for allowing my firm to represent you. It was my pleasure to assist and get to know you.

See All Client Reviews

Ethan G. Zelizer's Lawyer Endorsements

Endorse Ethan
Kristin Meridith Case headshot
Kristin Case

Employment and labor lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Opposing Counsel on matter

"I endorse this lawyer. Ethan cares deeply about his clients and, as I have seen from negotiating on the other side of him, advocates zealously for them. He is extremely knowledge in employment/labor law."

John M. Liston headshot
John Liston

Employment and labor lawyer | Jan 19

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"Ethan is a conscientious, knowledgeable, zealous, and forthright attorney. His skills go well beyond labor and employment law and he takes an active interest in finding the best course of action for his clients, even if it reduces the number of hours he will spend on a matter."

Jeffrey Joseph Kmoch headshot
Jeffrey Kmoch

Unknown lawyer | May 05

Relationship: Worked together on matter

"The very first deposition I ever attended as a summer associate was shadowing Ethan! Our time together was brief but he was smart, thoughtful, and generous with his time. I highly endorse him."

Cynthia Nicole Pietrucha headshot
Cynthia Pietrucha

Employment and labor lawyer | Dec 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. I'm an Illinois-based employment discrimination lawyer who focuses my caseload on severance and settlement agreement negotiations when employees allege race discrimination, gender discrimination and disability discrimination. Even though our practice areas overlap, our firm frequently refers cases to Attorney Zelizer because of his great reputation, especially for non-compete terms and executive compensation. His client reviews speak for themselves."

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Contracts and agreements lawyer | Aug 23

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I highly endorse Mr. Zelizer. Truly exceptional and caring attorney who produces great results in representing clients! I want all people with legal problems to contact him first."

Eric David Soule headshot
Eric Soule

Employment and labor lawyer | Aug 01

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Ethan is hardworking, intelligent, and very knowledgeable about employment and labor law. I highly recommend him."

John Fisher headshot
John Fisher

Contracts and agreements lawyer | Jul 04

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Intelligent and compassionate with superior communication skills."

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Employment and labor lawyer | Apr 28

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Keen attention to detail with exceptional client service. I endorse this lawyer."

Giacomo Jacques Behar headshot
Giacomo Behar

Employment and labor lawyer | Apr 07

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I wholeheartedly endorse this lawyer. A top-notch attorney, highly respected in the legal community."

Dorinda Jo Myers headshot
Dorinda Myers

Employment and labor lawyer | Mar 03

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"When you find yourself in need of an employment/labor law attorney it is important to retain an experienced, knowledgeable and competent lawyer. Mr. Zelizer is well respected in the legal community for those reasons."

Eric Leckie headshot
Eric Leckie

Employment and labor lawyer | Mar 02

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"I endorse this lawyer. Consummate professional in every regard. My highest recommendation. Can be counted on to get results in the toughest cases."

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Unknown lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Other

"This lawyer does a great job for the community. I endorse this lawyer"

Jill L Rogers headshot
Jill Rogers

Unknown lawyer | Jan 16

Relationship: Other

"This lawyer does a great job with the community. I endorse this lawyer"

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Unknown lawyer | Jan 15

Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

"Top-notch attorney. Highly respected in the legal community."

View All Endorsements
Amy Elizabeth Beckstead headshot
Amy Beckstead

Employment and labor lawyer

Stephen Aron Glickman headshot
Stephen Glickman

Employment and labor lawyer

Mark V. Clay headshot
Mark Clay

Immigration lawyer

Eric David Soule headshot
Eric Soule

Family lawyer

Jonathan Pierre Lacour headshot
Jonathan Lacour

Litigation lawyer

Dorinda Jo Myers headshot
Dorinda Myers

Litigation lawyer

Eric Leckie headshot
Eric Leckie

Criminal defense lawyer

John M. Liston headshot
John Liston

Litigation lawyer

Luke D. Kazmar headshot
Luke Kazmar

Divorce and separation lawyer

Judd S Nemiro headshot
Judd Nemiro

Divorce and separation lawyer

Jill L Rogers headshot
Jill Rogers

Divorce and separation lawyer

Lori D. Ecker headshot
Lori Ecker

Employment and labor lawyer

Alejandro Caffarelli headshot
Alejandro Caffarelli

Employment and labor lawyer

Kathleen Olwell Sedey headshot
Kathleen Sedey

Employment and labor lawyer

Violet Helen Borowski headshot
Violet Borowski

Employment and labor lawyer

Kristin Meridith Case headshot
Kristin Case

Employment and labor lawyer

Christian K. Lassen II headshot
Christian Lassen

Personal injury lawyer

Experience

Rating:  10.0 (Superb)

Honors

2013

Section and Chair of the Year, Chicago Bar Association

2004

Section Rising Star Award, Chicago Bar Association

Work Experience

2015 - Present

General Counsel, Serra International

2014 - Present

Founder, Attorney, HR Law Counsel, LLC

2005 - Present

Professor, Loyola University Chicago School Of Law

2012 - 2014

Senior Associate, Littler Mendelson

2010 - 2012

Senior Associate, Dla Piper Us, LLP

2008 - 2010

Associate, Paul Hastings Janofsky & Walker

2006 - 2008

Associate, Drinker Biddle & Reath, LLP (Formerly Gardner Carton & Douglas)

2004 - 2005

Associate, Morgan Lewis & Bockius

1999 - 2004

Paralegal, Summer Associate, Associate, Vedder Price Kaufman & Kammholz

Associations

2015 - Present

American Society of Legal Advocates

Member

2003 - Present

Chicago Bar Assocation

Member

2003 - Present

American Bar Assocation

Member

2008 - 2012

American Bar Association

Committee Chair

2003 - 2012

Chicago Bar Assocation

Committee Chair

Sample of Legal Cases

Sexual Harassment Arbitration

Judgment in favor of client.

Collective Action for Unpaid Overtime

Judgment in favor of client.

See More Legal Cases

Education

2003

Loyola University Chicago School of Law

JD - Juris Doctor

2000

Loyola University Chicago

BA - Bachelor of Arts

Speaking Engagements

2012

Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education

Non-competes in the Electronic Workplace: Solicitation in the Age of Social Media

2012

Chicago Bar Association

Non-Statutory Employment Claims: Employer-Employee Privacy Concerns in Social Media,

2010

Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education

Social Media – Using It For Litigation, IICLE 14th Annual Labor and Employment Law Update

Publications

2012

American Bar Association publication Treatise On The Family And Medical Leave Act

2012

JD Supra Illinois Supreme Court Recognizes Privacy Tort and Bold Employer Liable Under Agency Law

2009

Chicago Bar Association “Preparing For Unprecedented Absenteeism In The Wake Of H1N1: ‘I'm Not Coming In Today.’”

2008

Practicing Law Institute (PLI) Cross Border Practice: Protecting The Class - Reconciling Gulf Oil With The Realities Of The Workplace”

2002

Loyola Consumer Law Review The Sarbanes-Oxley Act: Accounting for Corporate Corruption?

Languages

English

Activity

Top Contributor

Ethan earned significant contribution points in 2015.

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Avvo Rating Levels
10.0 - 9.0 Superb8.9 - 8.0 Excellent7.9 - 7.0 Very Good6.9 - 6.0 Good5.9 - 5.0 Average4.9 - 4.0 Concern3.9 - 3.0 Caution2.9 - 2.0 Strong Caution1.9 - 1.0 Extreme Caution