In this investigative edition of The Governance Ledger, Common Interest Advisors examines the role of association attorneys in condominium governance disputes across several large Chicago condominium associations.

The analysis reviews multiple legal conflicts involving emotional support animal accommodations, records access disputes, election litigation, and controversial fee policies. A recurring theme appears across these cases: significant litigation was pursued despite little or no evidence of formal board votes authorizing the underlying actions.

The article explores how disputes involving books and records access, forensic financial review requests, and election administration escalated into prolonged litigation funded by condominium owners. The report also examines issues related to financial transparency, tax compliance questions, and the potential consequences of restrictive legal interpretations of owners’ statutory rights under the Illinois Condominium Property Act.

Based on this review of litigation filings, correspondence, and publicly available records, Saul Ewing Arnstein & Lehr LLP receives the First Annual Worst Community Association Law Firm Award, with Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C. appearing in a supporting role following attorney transitions between the firms.

This article is part of an ongoing investigative series examining systemic governance issues within the condominium industry, including prior analyses of reserve study firms and CPA practices.

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