Our Team
At Vasselli Law, LLC, we are committed to providing you with personalized and exceptional legal counsel. Our team brings decades of expertise across a wide range of practice areas, from municipal law and public finance to real estate transactions, economic development, and litigation. We take pride in delivering tailored legal strategies that help you navigate complex challenges with confidence and clarity.
James M. Vasselli
Founding Partner
With over 20 years of experience, Jimmy Vasselli is a highly respected attorney specializing in municipal law, real estate law, public finance, land use and planning, and labor and employment law. Throughout his career, he has worked closely with municipalities, businesses, and private clients, guiding them through intricate legal matters, from multimillion-dollar real estate transactions to regulatory compliance and government incentives.
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Jimmy has played a critical role in securing tax increment financing (TIF), enterprise zone incentives, and real estate tax rebate programs, including a project that received the prestigious Excellence in Tax Increment Finance Award from the Council of Development Finance. His deep knowledge of land use and zoning has helped facilitate the successful development of industrial facilities, commercial properties, educational institutions, and religious establishments.
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As a trusted legal advisor, Jimmy has served as municipal attorney for numerous Illinois municipalities, providing guidance on fiscal policy, governance, and regulatory compliance. In the realm of public finance, he has served as issuer’s or underwriter’s counsel for debt issuances exceeding $1 billion, ensuring that municipalities and organizations secure the financial resources they need for growth and sustainability.
​In the area of labor and employment law, Jimmy has extensive experience negotiating collective bargaining agreements, handling employment disputes, and advising clients on workplace policies to foster positive and compliant work environments. His ability to balance legal precision with practical business solutions makes him an invaluable asset to clients across both the public and private sectors. Jimmy is also frequently sought after by the media for his insights on legal and economic issues and serves as a regular correspondent and contributor to WRMN 1410 AM radio.​
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Jimmy earned his Juris Doctorate and Master of Business Administration from DePaul University and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Sociology from Drake University, graduating cum laude. He has also pursued advanced studies in financial services and financial markets, further strengthening his expertise at the intersection of law, business, and finance.
Erin K. Kiernat
Founding Partner
For nearly 20 years, Erin Kiernat has been a trusted legal advisor to municipalities, government agencies, and private businesses, specializing in municipal law, economic development, zoning, regulatory compliance, and employment law. Known for her sharp negotiation skills and meticulous legal strategy, she has guided clients through complex transactions and regulatory challenges with a focus on aligning development initiatives with community needs.
As an assistant municipal attorney for multiple Illinois municipalities, Erin has provided strategic counsel on governance, land use, tax increment financing (TIF), environmental compliance, and employment policies. She has played a key role in high-profile projects, including the $150 million development of a Wal-Mart supercenter, a $450 million redevelopment initiative incorporating environmental remediation and affordable housing, and the construction of municipal complexes valued at over $50 million.
Her expertise in transactional law ensures that public and private projects comply with financial and regulatory requirements. Erin also has extensive experience in employment law, drafting collective bargaining agreements, workplace policies, and compliance measures to help businesses and municipalities navigate labor regulations effectively.
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A cum laude graduate of Loyola University Chicago School of Law, Erin also holds degrees from Northwestern University and the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Her deep understanding of municipal operations and economic development makes her a valuable advocate for your legal needs.
Eric T. Stach
Partner
For over two decades, Eric Stach has been a trusted legal advisor to municipalities and local government entities across Illinois, bringing deep expertise in municipal law, zoning, land use, real estate, and litigation. With a unique blend of legal acumen and firsthand legislative experience, Eric provides comprehensive counsel that aligns legal compliance with practical governance and community development.
Eric has served as municipal attorney for numerous local governments, drafting and reviewing more than 100 ordinances and resolutions annually. He has developed and implemented affordable housing plans, rewritten zoning ordinances and special service agreement templates, and guided municipalities through complex property transactions, tax exemptions, and title disputes. His litigation experience spans state and federal courts, defending governmental clients in civil rights actions, commercial contract disputes, administrative reviews, and personal injury claims.
As a former Village Trustee for Clarendon Hills and a seasoned state government professional, Eric brings an insider’s understanding of the political and regulatory landscape. He has provided strategic lobbying services, coordinated PAC operations, and successfully advocated for legislation benefiting real estate professionals, healthcare providers, and the tourism industry. His government service includes staff roles within the Illinois General Assembly, where he analyzed multi-agency budgets, advised on legislative consolidations, and supported the General Services Appropriations Committee.
Eric began his legal career at prominent municipal law firms in the Chicago area and is now a partner at Vasselli Law, LLC. He earned his Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law and holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Notre Dame. Known for his pragmatic problem-solving and collaborative approach, Eric remains a steadfast advocate for local governments navigating the intersection of policy, law, and community priorities.
Edward E. Campbell
Of Counsel
Ed Campbell is a skilled civil litigator with over 20 years of experience handling complex commercial disputes, municipal litigation, contract negotiation, estate administration, and appellate matters. As lead counsel, he has successfully represented businesses, municipalities, and individuals in multi-million-dollar contract disputes, municipal bond cases, and real estate litigation. His ability to develop winning legal strategies has led to significant victories, including securing summary judgment in a multi-million-dollar road construction dispute and successfully defending a municipality in a $16.3 million bondholder lawsuit.
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Ed’s dedication to public service is evident through his work with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services (CVLS), where he serves as a guardian ad litem and court-appointed counsel for disabled adults and caregivers. His outstanding contributions earned him a Distinguished Service Award and a feature in the CVLS Annual Report for his pro bono efforts. Whether handling high-stakes commercial litigation or guiding families through estate matters, he brings a compassionate and results-driven approach to every case.
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Ed earned his Juris Doctor from Northern Illinois University College of Law and holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science with a minor in Business. His strategic mindset, courtroom experience, and dedication to justice make him your trusted advocate.
Julie E. Diemer
Of Counsel
With 27 years of experience, Julie Diemer is a highly respected attorney specializing in labor, employment, and school law. She has spent her career representing labor organizations, public entities, and private employers in collective bargaining, dispute resolution, and civil litigation.
Julie is known for her practical and proactive approach to employment law, helping clients navigate challenges related to employee misconduct, wage and hour disputes, FMLA compliance, retirement benefits, and workplace policies.
Julie has successfully defended numerous clients against discrimination claims before the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Human Rights Commission, as well as litigated high-profile wage and hour class action cases in federal court. She is a seasoned negotiator, having worked on collective bargaining agreements and grievance arbitrations for police, fire, education, and municipal labor unions. In addition, she frequently advises organizations on employee handbooks, workplace policies, and liability prevention, conducting training seminars to help employers reduce legal risks.​
Julie is admitted to practice in Illinois, the U.S. District Court & Federal Trial Bar (Northern, Central, and Southern Districts), and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. She is a member of the Labor and Employee Relations Association, the American Bar Association, and the National Association of College and University Attorneys. A Chicago-Kent College of Law graduate, Julie also holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Iowa. With her deep expertise and commitment to client success, Julie is a trusted advocate for employers, municipalities, and educational institutions.
Michael S. Garrigan
Of Counsel
For over 30 years, Michael Garrigan has served as a highly respected attorney and certified urban planner, advising municipalities across Illinois on land use, zoning, historic preservation, and comprehensive community development. With dual expertise in law and planning, Michael brings a rare combination of legal insight and strategic vision to local governments navigating growth, revitalization, and regulatory complexity.
Michael has held senior municipal leadership roles, including Community Development Director and Planning Director, managing departments of up to 20 employees and overseeing multimillion-dollar budgets. He has led zoning, building, business development, and historic preservation initiatives in communities ranging from 15,000 to over 45,000 residents. His portfolio includes the entitlement of more than two dozen residential subdivisions, the creation of three master-planned communities exceeding 1,000 homes each, the drafting of comprehensive plans, and the establishment of historic districts that have reshaped local identities.
Earlier in his career, Michael operated a private legal practice focused on land use, real estate, fire protection, bankruptcy, and corporate law, gaining hands-on experience in municipal finance through the preparation of budgets, levy ordinances, and tax extensions. He also provided pro bono legal support to the Lake County Bar Association.
As an attorney with Vasselli Law, LLC, Michael draws on decades of legal and planning expertise to guide public entities through regulatory compliance, development negotiations, and long-range community planning. He holds a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School and a Master’s in Urban Planning and Policy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. A member of the American Institute of Certified Planners and the Congress for the New Urbanism, Michael’s thoughtful, community-centered approach makes him a vital asset to municipalities seeking sustainable, legally sound development.
Anthony J. Onesto
Of Counsel
A seasoned criminal defense attorney with over five decades of experience, Anthony Onesto is a respected trial lawyer, former prosecutor, and legal educator. He has successfully handled jury and bench trials in both federal and state courts, representing clients in high-stakes criminal cases and municipal investigations. Anthony has served as special counsel for municipalities in grand jury and criminal matters and has addressed the Illinois legislature on criminal law issues.
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Beyond the courtroom, Anthony has dedicated his career to educating law enforcement and protecting civil rights. He has lectured for the U.S. Marshal’s Office in Chicago, trained peace officers on search and seizure laws, civil rights, and proper use of force, and led police professionalism courses. His extensive experience includes arguing before the Illinois Supreme and Appellate Courts, securing successful outcomes for his clients, while actively engaging in pro bono work, youth outreach, and veterans’ services. His legal excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including a lifetime achievement award from the Italian American Political Coalition and the declaration of "Anthony J. Onesto Day" by the City of Chicago.
Anthony has been practicing law since 1967, after earning his juris doctor from Northwestern University Law School and his Bachelor of Arts from the University of Detroit. A dedicated advocate, he will provide you with exceptional legal representation.
Amalia S. Rioja
Of Counsel
With 30 years of experience, Amalia Rioja is a strategic and innovative attorney specializing in government relations, public-private partnerships, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance. She has held key legal and executive leadership roles in state government, private practice, and nonprofit sectors, providing counsel on economic development, infrastructure, ethics, and diversity initiatives. Amalia has advised 24 Illinois state agencies, including transportation, finance, education, and environmental departments, ensuring legal compliance and operational efficiency at the highest levels of government.
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Amalia has successfully represented both governmental and private entities in major projects involving public-private partnerships, social services, technology, and transportation infrastructure. As deputy chief of staff and deputy general counsel for Illinois Governor Pat Quinn, she played a crucial role in overseeing economic inclusion, legal policymaking, and government efficiency initiatives. She also served as ethics officer for the Governor’s Office, where she led internal investigations and ensured compliance with state ethics laws. Her diverse experience includes practicing law at Baker McKenzie, where she provided counsel on litigation and corporate matters.
A graduate of Northwestern University School of Law, Amalia also earned a Bachelor of Science in Journalism with a minor in Economics from Northwestern University. Her deep understanding of law, business, and government affairs makes her an invaluable resource as you navigate complex legal and regulatory landscapes.
Douglas R. Roberts
Of Counsel
With over 40 years of legal experience, Doug Roberts is a highly respected attorney specializing in criminal defense, DUI and traffic violations, and personal injury litigation. He has successfully represented clients in jury trials, bench trials, and appellate cases at both the state and federal levels, earning a reputation for tenacious advocacy and strategic case management. His experience includes serving as lead counsel in death penalty cases before its abolishment in Illinois, underscoring his ability to handle the most serious and complex legal matters.
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Beyond criminal defense, Doug has a strong background in personal injury litigation, helping injured clients obtain just compensation, as well as defending clients against DUI and traffic-related charges. His thorough approach and deep understanding of the legal system ensure the best possible outcomes for those he represents. In addition to his practice, he has been an active member of the Lake County Bar Association, serving as Chairman and committee member, contributing to the advancement of legal standards.
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Doug holds a Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois John Marshall Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from Indiana University. Admitted to practice in both Illinois and Florida, he brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to your case, offering trusted legal counsel and vigorous defense.
Ethan M. Mora
Associate Attorney
Ethan Mora is a versatile attorney specializing in corporate transactions, municipal law, and civil litigation. He has successfully advised businesses and municipalities on contract negotiations, licensing matters, and employment disputes, combining legal expertise with strategic business insight. His background in negotiation and advocacy—recognized with top honors in Negotiation, Moot Court, Mock Trial, and Mediation—allows him to craft compelling legal arguments and resolve disputes effectively.
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With a strong foundation in business and law, Ethan has worked on corporate governance issues, municipal compliance, and labor-related cases, ensuring clients operate within legal frameworks while minimizing risk. His ability to analyze complex legal challenges and provide innovative solutions makes him a valuable asset to clients navigating regulatory and corporate matters.
Ethan earned his Juris Doctor and Master of Business Administration, magna cum laude, from Loyola University Chicago, equipping him with a deep understanding of the intersection of law and finance. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts in History, cum laude, from Denison University, where he developed strong analytical and research skills that enhance his legal services.