Our History
Neal & Leroy, LLC, one of the oldest minority owned and operated law firms in the United States, was founded in 1938 by Earl J. Neal, who was later appointed a Circuit Court Judge. Judge Neal's son, Earl L. Neal, joined the firm in 1955. Together, father and son tried jury cases throughout Illinois, and quickly gained a reputation as distinguished trial lawyers. The practice burgeoned, and the firm expanded to become Earl L. Neal & Associates, LLC. Earl L. Neal's son, Langdon D. Neal, joined the firm in 1981.
​
In 2005, the firm became Neal & Leroy, LLC in recognition of the firm's expanded practice areas and the contributions of its dedicated and committed group of Managing Partners, Langdon D. Neal, Michael D. Leroy, Richard F. Friedman, Anne L. Fredd, Jeanette Sublett, and Terrance L. Diamond. In 2018, the firm celebrated 80 years of excellence.
​
​
Our Practice
The firm's practice is focused in real estate matters including zoning, development and land use, real estate transactions and finance, public and project finance, and eminent domain/condemnation. The firm also practices in construction law, historic preservation, litigation, municipal law, bankruptcy, and labor and employment. In addition, the attorneys of Neal & Leroy have successfully handled a wide variety of more specialized matters for the firm's clients.
Our Approach
In all its endeavors, Neal & Leroy is committed to providing the resources necessary to meet the needs of its clients, no matter how large or small. Mindful of the firm's genesis, and with respect for its history and the high standards it has always attained, Neal & Leroy pledges to exceed expectations of all clients in providing superior quality legal services. Also, we pledge to remain sensitive to the issues of cost containment, accountability, and the unique business concerns of each of our clients.
​