James A. Martinkus

Although the law is based on logic, the practice of some areas of the law can be emotional and very personal. Jim Martinkus, an attorney with Erwin, Martinkus, & Cole, Ltd. in Champaign, IL, concentrates his practice in personal injury, medical malpractice, divorce and real estate, and his work has shown him just how personal the law can be.

A 1972 magna cum laude graduate of the University of California at Los Angeles and a 1977 graduate of the University of Illinois Law School, Jim chose a field that demands compassion. His first duty is to protect his clients' interests. He often becomes a friend as well as a counselor, offering guidance through difficult periods in his clients' lives. His role as advocate matters most at trial, where many people find themselves in a courtroom for the first time. Using his skills, he guides clients through that process and seeks the greatest benefit the law allows.

Jim believes the law's primary obligation is to benefit the people it serves. He stays current on new legal developments and is always prepared to do what is necessary to represent his clients well.

About Jim

Born

Chicago, Illinois, May 7, 1950

Admitted to bar

1977 (Springfield, Illinois)

Education

University of California at Los Angeles (B.A., 1972, magna cum laude); University of Illinois (J.D., 1977)

Member

Champaign County, Illinois State, and American Bar Associations

Languages

Lithuanian, Russian, Spanish