Derek W. Strain
About Derek W. Strain
Derek W. Strain is a lawyer based in Oak Park, IL and has been recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® since 2012. Derek W. Strain is recognized in the following practice area:
- Oak Park, Illinois
- Immigration Law
Current Firm: Law Office of Derek W. Strain LLC
Education: DePaul University, J.D., graduated 1996
Location: Oak Park, IL
Nearby Lawyers
Megan New is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Patent. Megan, who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Megan is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Jack Rovner, an attorney, is a founding member of Health Law Consultancy. Health Law Consultancy is a Chicago health law boutique that provides strategic legal counsel for the business of health care to enable health industry participants to capitalize on opportunities and manage challenges in the evolving health system. Rovner is Best Lawyers 2014 Chicago health care law "Lawyer of the Year." For four decades, Rovner has represented clients on health law, health reform, antitrust, business s...
Michael J. Zdeb is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Closely Held Companies and Family Businesses Law. Michael J., who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2016. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Michael J. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
John M. Dickman is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employment Law - Management. John M., who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2026. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which John M. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Paul T. Fox focuses his practice in commercial litigation for more than 30 years. He regularly represents litigants in federal and state courts at both the trial and appellate level, as well as before arbitration panels, mediators and other alternative dispute resolution forums. An experienced trial lawyer, Paul typically tries cases every year. He has been a member of the Trial Bar for the United States District Court in Chicago for the past 20 years. He also teaches trial advocacy at Northw...
Gretchen Scavo is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Litigation - Mergers and Acquisitions. Gretchen, who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2025. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Gretchen is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Beata Leja is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Immigration Law. Beata, who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2020. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Beata is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Jon Ballis is Chairman of the Executive Committee of Kirkland & Ellis, one of the world’s leading law firms with 6,500 professionals (including more than 3,000 attorneys) around the world committed to the highest quality legal advice and unparalleled client service. In his role, Jon is responsible for establishing and executing upon Kirkland’s strategic priorities, including advancing business initiatives and promoting a culture of performance, collaboration and collegiality. ...
Joe Madonia is leader of the firm’s Environmental Litigation team. For more than 25 years, Joe has defended and counseled clients on a wide array of toxic tort and environmental matters at the local, regional and national levels. Joe delivers strong skills as a litigator, multifaceted trial experience, and the regulatory know-how and scientific depth needed to problem-solve at virtually any level of sophistication or difficulty. His experience includes serving as national trial counsel ...
Anne S. Becker is a top attorney recognized by Best Lawyers in the practice area(s) of Employee Benefits (ERISA) Law. Anne S., who practices law in Chicago, Illinois, has been recognized since 2022. This recognition is based on an exhaustive peer-review survey, reflecting the high esteem in which Anne S. is held by other top lawyers in the same geographic and legal practice area.
Explore and Learn
2026 Best Lawyers Awards: Recognizing Legal Talent Across the United States
by Jamilla Tabbara
The 2026 editions highlight the top 5% of U.S. attorneys, showcase emerging practice areas and reveal trends shaping the nation’s legal profession.
Gun Rights for Convicted Felons? The DOJ Says It's Time.
by Bryan Driscoll
It's more than an administrative reopening of a long-dormant issue; it's a test of how the law reconciles the right to bear arms with protecting the public.
2026 Best Lawyers Awards in Canada: Marking 20 Years of Excellence
by Jamilla Tabbara
Honoring Canada’s most respected lawyers and spotlighting the next generation shaping the future of law.
How to Sue for Defamation: Costs, Process and What to Expect
by Bryan Driscoll
Learn the legal standards, costs and steps involved when you sue for defamation, including the difference between libel and slander.
Best Lawyers 2026: Discover the Honorees in Brazil, Mexico, Portugal, South Africa and Spain
by Jamilla Tabbara
A growing international network of recognized legal professionals.
The Family Law Loophole That Lets Sex Offenders Parent Kids
by Bryan Driscoll
Is the state's surrogacy framework putting children at risk?
Holiday Pay Explained: Federal Rules and Employer Policies
by Bryan Driscoll
Understand how paid holidays work, when employers must follow their policies and when legal guidance may be necessary.
How to Choose a Good Lawyer: Tips, Traits and Questions to Ask
by Laurie Villanueva
A Practical Guide for Your First-Time Hiring a Lawyer
Unenforceable HOA Rules: What Homeowners Can Do About Illegal HOA Actions
by Bryan Driscoll
Not every HOA rule is legal. Learn how to recognize and fight unenforceable HOA rules that overstep the law.