Serving
Clients
Nationwide
For Over
40 Years
We are a litigation firm with a national practice focused on two core areas: commercial/business disputes and trust and estate litigation. On the commercial side, we frequently represent shareholders in closely held companies and handle breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duty, partnership disputes, and related claims. On the trust side, we handle high-stakes will contests, claims of self-dealing or mismanagement, and other disputes involving trustees and beneficiaries.
About the Firm
Our firm was founded in 1985 by Jay A. Canel, a legendary Chicago trial lawyer whose insight and unique approach to litigation continue to influence the way we practice today.
Each of us has different perspectives and complementary strengths. This balance allows us to see cases from every angle and give our clients advice that is both thoughtful and practical.
Peter and Bill have decades of experience trying a wide variety of cases across the country. Their judgment, steady hand, and deep familiarity with courts and the law provide a strong foundation for every matter we take on. Jeff and Paul are younger but bring a wide range of experience that few attorneys their age have. They add energy, efficiency, and a fresh perspective.
We are selective in the matters we take on, which allows us to give each one the time and attention it deserves. We approach litigation with care and discipline, combining thoughtful analysis, creative strategy, and efficient execution to advance our clients’ goals. Our ultimate goal is always the same: to achieve favorable outcomes through strategies that are efficient, practical, and aligned with what matters most to the client
Peter King joined the firm in 1986, bringing experience as both a CPA and a trial lawyer. He offers a sharp analytical perspective and a depth of courtroom experience developed over decades of trying cases nationwide.
“My experience, attention to detail, and high energy will be brought to bear on my client’s problems.”
Bill Jones joined in 1991 after clerking for the Illinois Supreme Court. He brings a deep understanding of the law, balancing a big-picture mentality with the knowledge and discipline necessary to ensure that no detail is overlooked.
“Hard work breeds success. We pride ourselves in never being outworked in a case.”
Jeff Mathis came aboard in 2019 after clerking for the Hon. Sanjay Tailor in the Cook County Chancery Division. He draws on extensive time in the courtroom and experience handling a broad range of cases to focus on the issues that will truly matter in each case.
“Foresight, creativity, and a ‘details matter’ mentality are the keys to resolving disputes.”
Paul King joined in 2022, bringing a background as a CPA and experience as an associate at two respected Chicago litigation firms. He brings strong business acumen and a methodical, solutions-oriented approach to litigation.
“Good legal counsel is about asking the right questions, listening carefully, and building a strategy rooted in what matters most to the person across the table.”
I hired Peter to represent my co-directors and me in a breach of fiduciary duty dispute with a co-owner. Peter and his partner Bill joined our trial team just prior to trial and helped us obtain a complete victory at trial. Peter had an uncanny ability to focus on what was important to succeed at trial. Peter was well prepared, organized and thoughtful.
Complete Victory
Oliver Nicklin
I have known Peter King and Bill Jones in this business for decades, and have been involved in cases with them. They are tenacious, exceptionally bright, practical, ethical, and have formidable trial and appellate skills. I have also referred friends and family to King & Jones for commercial and estate litigation and they have always gotten outstanding results.
Outstanding Results
Chuck Hornewer
After 2 life experiences with major legal malpractice, the nicest thing happened when I contacted your firm. I got excellent advice from a brilliant caring lawyer. My faith in lawyers has been renewed, thanks to Peter King. Hire this law firm and you will get honest, caring legal professionals that will right a wrong — not cause the wrong.
Brilliant Caring Lawyer
Mary Heneghan