James R. Hargrove

Attorney & Counselor

James R.
Hargrove

Born and raised in Chicago, James Hargrove has dedicated his career to the principle that exceptional legal representation should be built on unwavering integrity, meticulous preparation, and genuine care for every client. His practice reflects the city he calls home: direct, resilient, and deeply principled.

25+ Years Practice
500+ Cases Won
$2B+ Value Represented

Biography

A Career Built on Principle

1996 – 1999

Northwestern Pritzker School of Law

Graduated J.D. cum laude. Editor of the Northwestern Law Review. Recipient of the Dean's Award for Outstanding Achievement in Civil Advocacy. Clerked for Judge Patricia H. Sullivan of the Northern District of Illinois.

1999 – 2007

Associate, Kellerman & Drake LLP

Rose through the ranks of one of Chicago's most prestigious litigation firms, developing expertise in complex corporate disputes and high-stakes civil litigation. Named to Super Lawyers® Rising Stars four consecutive years.

2007 – 2014

Partner, Kellerman Drake & Hargrove LLP

Made partner at 35, one of the youngest in the firm's history. Led the civil rights practice group and expanded the firm's estate planning division. Argued before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals on six occasions.

2014 – Present

Founder, Hargrove & Associates

Founded an independent practice to provide clients with the personalized attention that larger firms cannot offer. Selective case load ensures every client receives James's direct involvement from intake through resolution.

Core Values

What Guides Every Case

I

Integrity Above All

Every representation is built on absolute honesty — with clients, with opposing counsel, and with the court. There are no shortcuts, no misrepresentations, no gray areas. The law demands it; our clients deserve it.

II

Relentless Preparation

Courtrooms are won in law libraries. We prepare for every conceivable angle, anticipate every opposing argument, and ensure no detail is left unexamined. Our clients walk into every proceeding with full confidence.

III

Client-Centered Counsel

Legal strategy must serve your actual goals — not abstract legal principles. We listen deeply to understand what success looks like for you, then build our approach around achieving that specific outcome.

IV

Clear Communication

You should never feel confused about your own case. We commit to plain-language updates, prompt responses, and ensuring you understand every development and every decision as it happens.

Bar Memberships

Admissions &
Affiliations

  • Illinois State BarSince 1999
  • U.S. District Court, N.D. IllinoisSince 1999
  • Seventh Circuit Court of AppealsSince 2003
  • U.S. Supreme Court BarSince 2010
  • Chicago Bar AssociationMember
  • Illinois Trial Lawyers AssociationMember

Recognition

Awards &
Honors

  • Martindale-Hubbell® AV PreeminentOngoing
  • Illinois Super Lawyers®2009–Present
  • Rising Star — Super Lawyers®2004–2008
  • Best Lawyers in America®2012–Present
  • Dean's Award for Civil Advocacy1999
  • Chicago Bar Pro Bono Award2016
"Every client who walks into my office brings with them something irreplaceable — a problem that matters deeply to them. I have never taken that trust lightly, and I never will."

— James R. Hargrove

Work with
James directly

All cases reviewed personally. All clients served with full attention.

Schedule a Consultation