James Creppel

James Creppel is a seasoned civil litigator and real estate attorney who protects the interests of condominium and community associations across Illinois. Boards turn to James when a dispute threatens their community's finances, operations, or governance — and when they need an advocate who understands both the law and the practical realities of running an association.

James's litigation practice covers the full range of disputes associations encounter: enforcement of declarations, covenants, and rules; contract disputes with vendors and contractors; access and possession actions; defense of boards, directors, and officers against claims brought by owners and third parties; and emergency injunctive relief when swift court intervention is required. He counsels boards on their obligations under their governing documents and Illinois law, with an emphasis on resolving problems efficiently — and positioning the association to prevail when litigation cannot be avoided.

James also maintains a substantial property tax practice, representing owners of residential, multifamily, commercial, and industrial properties in assessment appeals before boards of review and in the circuit court. He advises clients on exemptions, reassessments, and prorations arising from sales and refinancings. Handling several hundred tax appeals each year has instilled a discipline that benefits every client he serves: rigorous attention to valuation, command of unforgiving deadlines, and a sharp focus on the bottom-line economics of every dispute.

James earned his J.D. from Mitchell Hamline School of Law and his B.A. in Philosophy from Arizona State University. He is licensed to practice law in Illinois.