Founder of Ottenheimer Law Group and fourth-generation attorney Lester A. Ottenheimer, III possesses a depth and breadth of legal experience that allows him to serve the needs of individuals and businesses facing a wide range of legal issues. With a commitment to client service and an emphasis on providing clear, practical advice, Les is a trusted counselor and dependable ally for clients throughout Chicagoland.
Our Attorneys
Lester A. Ottenheimer, III
Senior Partner
While Les focuses his practice on bankruptcy and commercial litigation, he also brings his talents to bear on behalf of clients involved in residential and commercial real estate transactions, corporate law and business matters, and estate planning and administration. He prides himself on the long-term relationships he has built with those he serves, helping them reach their objectives or resolve their issues efficiently and cost-effectively.
Prior to establishing Ottenheimer Law Group in 2005, Les acted as general counsel for a local leasing and finance company. He also was a partner at a mid-sized Chicagoland law firm, where he served as chair of the firm’s bankruptcy and litigation committees. He has shepherded countless clients through Chapter 7, 11, and 13 bankruptcy proceedings, obtained favorable outcomes in commercial and consumer disputes, facilitated complex commercial real estate acquisitions and residential closings, and represented clients in several jury trials. He is also a certified mediator.
Les’s accomplishments and professionalism have earned him the trust of his clients as well as the respect of his peers, who have honored him with multiple inclusions on annual Super Lawyers and Leading Lawyers lists. Les regularly gives presentations on bankruptcy matters, has authored numerous articles, and delivers continuing legal education seminars on a variety of subjects.
Active in the community where he lives and raised his three children, Les was the chairman of the Village of Buffalo Grove Plan Commission from 1998-2010 and currently serves as a Buffalo Grove Village Trustee. Lester is involved in several philanthropic endeavors as well, including serving as past president of the United Way of Buffalo Grove.
A graduate of Indiana University, Les earned his law degree from Indiana University School of Law. He is a member of several professional organizations and is admitted to practice in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois, where he is also a member of the Trial Bar, as well as the Northern and Southern Districts of Indiana. He also regularly practices in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Illinois and Eastern District of Wisconsin.