Jack D. Franks wanted to be an attorney since he was ten years old. He always admired his father Herb’s profession, but it wasn’t until he read the biography of Clarence Darrow that he set his sights on the legal profession. He was so moved by the famous lawyer’s biography he even gave himself the middle name, “Darrow.”
At the end of the day, being a lawyer was the position in which he thought he could help the most people and ultimately do the most good. His favorite part of being an attorney is helping people, but even more so helping them stand up for their rights to ensure they get what they are entitled to. As an attorney at Franks Gerkin Ponitz Greeley, he sincerely values his ability to level the playing field and fight against strenuous odds.
When he works with a client, he looks at the case as if it were his own. He does everything in his power to make sure his clients get what they deserve.
Jack has a background in multinational and commercial litigation as well as extensive federal court experience, both of which support his practice in personal injury law, complex commercial litigation, and general business law. Jack also served as Chairman of the State Bank Group which consists of 8 community banks in McHenry County.
Jack was the first elected Chairman of the McHenry County Board, serving since 2016 to 2020. Previously, Jack served as the Illinois State Representative of the 63rd District. He was Chairman of the State Government Administration Committee of the House of Representatives. He also served on the Special Investigative Committee and was instrumental in the impeachment of former Governor Blagojevich.
Jack is a huge Chicago sports team fan, and likes to spend time outdoors hiking and fishing.
Areas of Practice:
Commercial Litigation
Personal Injury
Banking Services
Real Estate
Collections
Bar Admissions:
Illinois, 1989
District of Columbia
U.S. Supreme Court
Education:
American University, Washington College of Law, Washington, District of Columbia, 1989 J.D., Cum Laude
London School of Economics, 1984
University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin, 1985 B.A., Cum Laude
Educational Awards & Recognition:
Graduated from law school with honors
Graduated from college, with a double major with honors
Articles editor of the Administrative Law Journal
Professional Associations and Memberships:
Illinois Bar Association
Member, Attorney Registration & Disciplinary Committee
McHenry County Bar Association
First Chairman of McHenry County Board
Former Illinois Legislature Representing the 63rd District- Chairman State Government Administration
Languages:
Portuguese
Hebrew
