Illinois Utility Laws Attorney
At Phillips & Bathke, P.C., we represent landowners, businesses, and community groups in a wide range of utility law matters throughout Illinois. With offices in Chicago and Peoria, our attorneys understand the legal and regulatory frameworks that govern utility projects across the state. From transmission lines running through farmland to wind and solar developments in rural counties, we help Illinois clients protect their property rights, maximize compensation, and navigate complex negotiations.
Unfortunately, we require this initial consultation fee before reviewing and discussing your case. So, we are unable to assist you and wish you the best of luck.
Transmission Lines, Pipelines, and Energy Projects in Illinois
Large infrastructure projects—such as high-voltage transmission lines, natural gas and CO₂ pipelines, and other utility corridors—are a growing presence across Illinois. Companies pursuing these projects often push for quick easement agreements, option contracts, or even threaten eminent domain proceedings under Illinois law.
Our role is to level the playing field. We help landowners and landowner groups:
- Review and negotiate easement agreements
- Understand long-term impacts on property use and value
- Push back against unfair or aggressive utility company tactics
- Leverage collective representation to strengthen negotiating power
We know how these agreements can impact farming operations, development opportunities, and long-term land values in Illinois. Our attorneys bring both regulatory knowledge and negotiation experience to every case.
Wind and Solar Farm Development in Illinois
Illinois has seen rapid growth in renewable energy projects, driven by initiatives like the Illinois Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA). With that growth comes new legal challenges for landowners approached by developers.
Wind farms and solar projects typically involve:
- Long-term lease or easement agreements
- Access roads and transmission line rights-of-way
- Zoning and permitting compliance under county ordinances
We represent Illinois landowners in negotiating agreements that protect their rights, ensure fair compensation, and account for future land use. We also advise on local zoning and permitting matters that often shape renewable energy development in Illinois counties and municipalities.
Easements, Options, and Land Use Agreements
Utility companies frequently use easements and option agreements to secure access across private Illinois land. While these documents may appear simple, hidden provisions can limit land use, reduce property value, or create burdens for future owners.
Our attorneys carefully review and negotiate these agreements to:
- Ensure fair compensation
- Clarify boundaries and access rights
- Limit overreach by utility companies
- Protect long-term property value
We also represent clients in disputes over existing easements, including misuse, boundary conflicts, or violations of prior agreements. When negotiations fail, our litigation background ensures that our clients’ rights are vigorously defended in Illinois courts.
Municipal Utility Billing and Ordinance Issues
Our work in utility law isn’t limited to large developers. We’ve also assisted clients with billing errors, service disputes, and ordinance compliance involving municipal utility providers. These issues often arise unexpectedly and require an experienced legal eye to resolve effectively—especially when dealing with local agencies or administrative review boards.
At Phillips & Bathke, P.C., we help clients face utility-related challenges with confidence, clarity, and strong legal support rooted in real-world experience.
