Michael F. Zimmermann concentrates his practice in government law, human resources and commercial litigation. For more than 20 years, he has served as general counsel to Chicago-area municipalities and their leaders, representing them in day-to-day legal issues and as municipal prosecutor. Mike is chair of Tressler’s local government law group.
In addition, Mike represents a variety of businesses and individuals in commercial litigation evolving from disputes related to business transactions; land development; commercial real estate and related contract, liability and administrative licensing; as well as regulatory matters. He also represents both private and public clients in the creation and operation of projects designed to spur economic development.
With respect to his local government law practice, Mike advises elected officials and administrative staff on general business matters, development, personnel, Tax Increment Finance (TIF) Districts and other tax incentives, code enforcement and public policy issues. He also defends and prosecutes a full range of matters that often involve unique local government concerns, including the following:
- Zoning and development, land use and eminent domain
- Personnel and employment discrimination claims
- Civil rights issues
- Administrative review law
- Police department liability
- Police and fire department disciplinary commission matters
- Premises liability and personal injury, and
- Local liquor licensure
Mike assists clients in a wide variety of employment matters. These include policy creation, investigations, discipline and defense of discrimination claims.
Mike brings to all of his clients a commitment to proactive, effective representation that reflects his familiarity with the requirements of sound public policy, good business judgment and reliable trial advocacy.
Mike joined Tressler LLP in March 2012 when his then-current firm, Raysa & Zimmermann LLC, merged with Tressler.
In 2008 and 2009, he was named to the Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star® list in the category of Government/Cities/Municipalities and Civil Litigation Defense.
International Municipal Lawyers Association, Member
Illinois Municipal League, Home Rule Attorneys’ Committee, Member
Illinois Institute for Local Government Law, Member
Chicago Bar Association, Member
Illinois State Bar Association, Member
