The Courtroom Is Not a Negotiation Table. It's Where We Fight.
Litigating in
the Courtroom Since
2006
Trial Attorney Shay T. Allen
The Courtroom Is Not a Negotiation Table. It's Where We Fight.
Proven in the Courtroom. Backed by Science. In high-stakes legal matters — a serious criminal charge, a catastrophic personal injury claim, a complex commercial dispute, or a critical civil rights issue — the trajectory of your case depends on your attorney’s readiness to go the distance.
A fourth-generation Chicagoan who began his career as a prosecutor, Attorney Shay Allen brings a rare combination of courtroom experience and technical insight to Chicago and Chicagoland clients. With over 20 years of practice and more than 1,000 trials across Illinois state and federal courts, Shay builds every case for the courtroom from day one, with a clear, definitive strategy. And because he is federally licensed, he can take select cases nationwide — not only in Illinois.
Why Choose Shay Allen?
A Scientific Approach to Evidence.
Shay holds a degree in biology with a minor in chemistry and originally prepared for a career in medicine. He analyzes medical records, forensic documentation, and DNA evidence with the precision of a scientist — a decisive edge in criminal cases built on forensic proof and in medical-malpractice and injury claims alike.
A True Record of 1,000+ Trials.
While many firms push quick settlements, Shay’s career is defined by formal trial advocacy. From local courtrooms to high-profile federal cases, he has spent two decades winning verdicts in front of judges and juries in nearly every courthouse in Illinois.
Federally Licensed Nationwide Reach.
In addition to Illinois state and federal courts, Shay is federally licensed and available to take select cases anywhere in the country, not just in Illinois.
A Former Prosecutor in Your Corner.
Shay began his career as a prosecutor, so he knows firsthand how cases are investigated, charged, and tried. He uses that insight to anticipate the other side’s strategy and defend his clients at every stage.
Practice Areas
Personal Injury
Auto accidents, medical malpractice, nursing-home neglect, and wrongful death. Shay's scientific command of medical records...
Criminal Defense
State and federal criminal defense — DUI, drug offenses, weapons charges, violent crimes, domestic battery,...
Civil Rights
Police misconduct and Section 1983 claims, unlawful arrest, malicious prosecution, and workplace discrimination — including...
Our Case Results
A selection of civil recoveries across wrongful death, employment, civil rights,
and personal injury matters:
$1,180,000
Wrongful Death
$500,000
Workplace Discrimination
$190,000
Excessive Force recovery against the City of Chicago, reported by WTTW News
$135,000
Malicious Prosecution
$105,000
Unlawful Arrest
$100,000
Discrimination
$100,000
Excessive Force
$100,000
Excessive Force
$100,000
Malicious Prosecution
Recent verdicts in serious criminal cases:
Murder & Attempted Murder
Nolle Prosequi and Not Guilty on All Counts 26th Street Courthouse
Attempted Murder
Not Guilty Markham Courthouse
Murder
Mistrial / Hung Jury Markham Courthouse
Aggravated Battery
Not Guilty 26th Street Courthouse
Aggravated Battery
Not Guilty on All Charges 26th Street Courthouse
Firearm Discharge
Not Guilty Maywood Courthouse
Battery
Not Guilty Will County Courthouse
Automatic Weapon
Not Guilty Bridgeview Courthouse
Battery
Not Guilty Markham Courthouse
Results depend on the specific facts of each case. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Jury Selection Consulting for Trial Attorneys
Jury selection is one of the most important — and most overlooked — parts of any trial. Attorney Shay Allen works with other attorneys and firms during trial as a jury-selection consultant: he travels to assist with voir dire, applies methods developed over 20+ years for quickly reading and evaluating potential jurors, and helps seat a jury receptive to your case.
For attorneys and firms on trial who need jury-selection support.
Award Accolades
In the Blog
What to Expect
When You Work With Us
Free, confidential
consultation
Tell us what happened. We discuss the facts of your case and explain your legal options with no obligation.
An honest case
assessment
You get a straightforward evaluation — realistic outcomes and a clear strategy, built for the courtroom from day one.
Trial-ready
representation
We prepare every case as if it will be tried, and we take it to verdict when that’s what your case demands.
For personal injury cases, you pay no attorney fee unless we recover for you.
For criminal and civil-litigation matters, we'll explain fees clearly at your consultation.
Reviews From Our Clients
Good morning I am here to tell you that Mr. Allen and his team are the best defense attorneys I’ve ever witnessed I wouldn’t even be here to write this review if it wasn’t for them when you think of what great lawyers look like think Mr.Allen and his team
-Dionte W.
Attorney Allen is a great attorney. I always refer him to anyone who has legal needs in his areas of expertise. He will not disappoint!
-Vergis E.
Thank you, S.T Allen! Words can't express my most sincere thanks for the highly professional representation you've provided. You have stuck by us through a very stressful case, bring it to a successful end, and we will forever be grateful to you. I admire your composure, work ethic, and most of all excellent representation. Thank you, Attorney, Shay T. Allen!!!
-J T.
Navigating The DuPage County Court System is not easy! Attorney Shay Allen used his understanding, expertise and the patience necessary to insure we complied with all the “hoops” our daughter was tossed- due to receiving two traffic violations. Our advice? Add his number in your phone.
-Carmella S.
The service I’ve had at S.T. Allen Law has been nothing but professional. Despite COVID-19 delaying the courts, and the prosecutors prolonging my case, S.T. Allen handled it with attentiveness. S.T. Allen was responsive to the court and myself. If and when I had questions, S.T. Allen responsiveness was nothing but honest and effective. I am grateful for S.T. Allen’s knowledge and efforts that went into my case.
-Ronald C.
I hired this Law firm to take care of a very delicate matter that meant the world to me, and they handled everything so professionally, with clear communication, and responsiveness, expertise and diligence and I received a successful outcome in a timely manner. I Highly recommend S.T. Allen Law, P.C.
-Net O.
S.T. Allen Law , provided exceptional council during an unfortunate occurrence. Mr. Allen provided step by step process of the judicial system and process involved in resolving my case.Mr. Allen provided detailed information in every moment of my case. Mr. Allen set expectations and met every one of those goals set by the practice . ST Allen Law will be my first call if I ever need council in the…
-Raf P.
G0D morning Attorney Allen was very attentive to my case he listened to every detail and understood the situation based on his legal discernment I highly recommend that when you want help reach out to Attorney Allen he has a saying that I like he said I am good with puzzles and he is. Amen
-Bryant D.
Mr. Shay T. Allen is an amazing lawyer. Mr. Shay Allen and his entire team did a great job with my case. I was facing 76 years to life in prison. I am now a free man. Not guilty on all charges! I am very thankful for my freedom.
-Lamont C.
It is with great pleasure that I leave this post for Attorney Shay T Allen! He represented my Dad and was able to get his case reduced to a misdemeanor and given the evidence that the state had against my father we are extremely grateful & satisfied with the outcome of the case! Attorney Allen was with us the entire duration of the case which lasted an entire year, so…
-Julian E.
Attorney Allen is one of the best Attorneys in Illinois and that was spoken right out of the judges mouth! He has helped my Son beat several cases that without his expert representation, the charges could save landed him in prison. My family is so grateful for him. Even during trying financial times, he worked with us. Raising and guiding young adults isn't a easy task. They make mistakes and…
-Shuntashia
Allen and his staff are extremely professional. I feel I was represented very well from beginning to end. I can’t thank them all enough for such a such a wonderful experience.
-Miranda G.
I highly recommend The Law Offices of Attorney S.T. Allen and his beautiful team. The level of professionalism, their skilled and experienced legal expertise and representation were top tier. I witnessed firsthand a well respected judge highly commend Attorney S.T. Allen on his representation. To me that speaks volumes. 10/10. Highly Recommend.
-Cannye E.
I highly recommend this firm. They have assisted my company with several civil matters and did an excellent job every step of the way. Attorney Allen was extremely knowledgeable and able to help us navigate multiple legal issues with professionalism and confidence. Their staff was also amazing very responsive, helpful, and easy to work with throughout the entire process. We truly appreciated their guidance and support.
-Michael Q.
EXCELLENT!! EXCELLENT!! EXCELLENT ATTORNEY!! I hired Attorney Shay Allen for a Domestic Violence case out of Bridgeview, IL. My ex-girlfriend lied to the police and stated “I punched her in the eye”. They even had pictures of her with an black eye…Mr. Allen did an AMAZING job with representing me in this case! Mr. Allen destroyed her upon cross examination! He was able to demolish her credibility! I didn’t even…
-Ralph B.
Attorney Allen have always shown professionalism with our case. What important to my family is the lawyer being there when you need them. No matter the time or day he return calls with in minutes, always explaining in detail the next step to calm us down. Having a human side in business is so important and Attorney Allen is like a family member. Very honest and caring and giving he…
-Deidra C.
He’s by far one of the greatest lawyers in the country all across the board. He’s straightforward, efficient and a winner. Attorney Allen has represented my family for almost 10 years. We’ve never lost a battle! Law is his perfection!
-Mario A.
Attorney Shay Allen is Ana Amazing lawyer. He was professional, attentive, knowledgeable, friendly and patient throughout this entire case. And the results that follow are Absolutely Positive. I would use he and his services in all of my endeavors. Thank YOU Mr. Allen.
-Terry M.
Despite my issue having started just prior to COVID, Shay stuck with me for the nearly 3 years it took to resolve my case with a not guilty verdict. He did all this without adding fees for the many additional appearances that were required due to COVID delays. The trial was handled very professionally and had the desired outcome. I would highly recommend Shay for your legal defense needs.
-Paul F.
From the beginning, Shay Allen gave me a realistic expectation of the possible outcomes. Additionally, he kept me informed of all the details of my case. He was very responsive to me whenever I called or emailed. I was never left wondering what was going on with my case. While it was very difficult to go through, Shay Allen helped make the experience easier to manage. If you need legal…
-Cecil A. Jr.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the questions Chicago clients ask most — anchored to the Illinois statutes where they apply.
What types of cases does S.T. Allen Law handle?
The firm handles criminal defense (DUI, drug, weapons, violent crimes, domestic battery, theft, fraud, and other felony and misdemeanor charges), personal injury (auto accidents, medical malpractice, nursing-home neglect, and wrongful death), civil litigation (contract, commercial, and real-estate disputes), and civil rights and discrimination matters. Attorney Allen has tried cases across nearly every courthouse in Illinois.
What should I do if I've been arrested or charged with a crime in Chicago?
Politely invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney, and do not consent to a search or answer questions without a lawyer present. Write down what you remember as soon as you can, but only share those written notes with your attorney — not with police, family, or anyone else. Contact a criminal defense attorney before any questioning; early representation often shapes the outcome of a case.
What is the statute of limitations for criminal charges in Illinois?
Under 720 ILCS 5/3-5, most misdemeanor charges in Illinois must be brought within 18 months and most felonies within 3 years of the offense. Serious offenses such as first degree murder have no time limit. The deadline for your specific charge can vary, so confirm it with an attorney.
How much does it cost to hire a personal injury lawyer in Chicago?
S.T. Allen Law handles personal injury cases on a contingency fee — you pay no attorney fee unless we recover for you — and the initial consultation is free. Illinois attorneys must charge reasonable fees under Rule of Professional Conduct 1.5. Criminal-defense and civil-litigation matters use different fee arrangements, explained at your consultation.
How long do I have to file a personal injury claim in Illinois?
Most Illinois personal injury claims must be filed within 2 years of the injury under 735 ILCS 5/13-202. Some claims — including cases against government entities — have shorter deadlines, so it’s best to speak with an attorney quickly.
What is the deadline for a medical malpractice case in Illinois?
Under 735 ILCS 5/13-212, most Illinois medical-malpractice claims must be filed within 2 years of when the injury was or should have been discovered, and no more than 4 years after the act that caused it (the statute of repose).
Why does a science background matter in a criminal or injury case?
Shay Allen holds a degree in biology and originally prepared for a career in medicine. That training lets him analyze medical records, forensic documentation, and DNA evidence with a scientist’s precision — a decisive edge in criminal cases that turn on forensic proof and in medical-malpractice and injury claims.
What does 'a trial lawyer, not a settlement mill' mean?
Many firms are built to resolve cases quickly for a fast fee. Attorney Shay Allen prepares every case for trial from day one, with more than 1,000 trials over 20+ years in Illinois state and federal courts. Prosecutors and insurers negotiate differently when they know your attorney is ready to try the case.
What areas does S.T. Allen Law serve?
The firm is a Chicago and Chicagoland practice, representing clients throughout Cook, DuPage, and Will counties and the surrounding suburbs, including Naperville and Oak Brook. Because Attorney Allen is federally licensed, the firm can also take select cases nationwide.
How does Illinois comparative negligence affect my claim?
Illinois uses modified comparative negligence under 735 ILCS 5/2-1116. You can still recover if you were partly at fault, but your recovery is reduced by your percentage of fault, and you recover nothing if you are more than 50% at fault.
Where We Practice
S.T. Allen Law is a Chicago and Chicagoland practice. We represent clients throughout the city of Chicago and Cook County, and across the western suburbs — including DuPage County, Naperville, and Oak Brook.
Because Attorney Allen is federally licensed, the firm can also take select cases nationwide, not only in Illinois. If your matter is out of state, contact us to see whether it’s a fit.
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Chicago
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Maywood
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Evanston
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Berwyn
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Park Ridge
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Skokie
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Harvey
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Markham
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River Forest
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Evanston
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Wheaton
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Bolingbrook
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Joliet
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Romeoville
S.T. Allen Law, P.C., a Law Firm with Expertise in Criminal Defense, Civil Rights, Personal Injury and Civil Litigation, Represents Clients in Over 100 Municipalities in Illinois Across Cook, DuPage and Will Counties.
