About Michael J. Polachek

Trusted legal counsel for businesses, families, and real estate clients across Northern Illinois.

For more than four decades, Michael J. Polachek has provided thoughtful, detail-driven legal counsel to closely held businesses, real estate investors, families, and financial institutions. His practice focuses on business transactions, the sale and purchase of companies, industrial and commercial real estate, zoning matters, and comprehensive estate administration and planning.

Clients value Michael’s clarity, responsiveness, and ability to simplify complex legal issues while protecting their long-term interests. He is known for his steady judgment, meticulous preparation, and the professional integrity that has defined his entire career.

Core Practice Focus

Michael’s work centers on helping clients navigate important business and personal transitions with confidence. His areas of focus include:

He has represented both buyers and sellers in transactions large and small, always with the same level of dedication and attention to detail.

Our History

Four Decades of Legal Leadership

1976 - 2000
Early Legal Foundations

Began his legal career as an Attorney and Partner at Darnall, Polachek & Associates, focusing on business law, transactions, and estate matters.

2000 - 2013
Building a Strong Transactional Practice

Joined Tressler LLP as a Business Attorney and Partner, expanding his work with closely held businesses, lenders, and real estate clients.

Community Engagement
Leadership & Community Service

Served in multiple civic roles, including Chair of the Zoning Commission of the Village of Bartlett, Illinois, a Commissioner of the Northwest Suburban Cook County Commissioners for METRA representing the Village of Bartlett, Illinois, President of the Franklin Park and Addison Rotary Clubs, President of the Franklin Park Chamber of Commerce, and on the Board of Directors of the DuPage Symphony Orchestra.

Accolades & Distinctions
Recognized for Excellence

Earned honors such as Leading Lawyer, Illinois Super Lawyer®, and the Martindale-Hubbell AV® rating for professional excellence.

2013 – Present
Founding His Own Firm

Established the Law Office of Michael J. Polachek, Ltd., continuing to serve businesses, families, and real estate clients across Northern Illinois.

Awards & Professional Recognition

Michael has received multiple peer-nominated honors throughout his career, including:

Leading Lawyer – Closely Held Business Law

Recognized by peers for exceptional skill in advising and representing closely held businesses and their owners.

Illinois Super Lawyer® – Mergers & Acquisitions

Selected for demonstrated excellence in business transactions, including the sale and purchase of companies.

AV® Preeminent Rating – Martindale-Hubbell

Awarded the highest rating for professional excellence, legal ability, and ethical standards as judged by fellow attorneys.

Blog

Insights & Legal Guidance

Resources

Golden Parachute Payments

What are Golden Parachute Payments? The phrase “golden parachute” refers to an agreement between a company and a high ranking executive which calls for the executive to receive a large predetermined amount of compensation in the event there is a

Resources

Corporate Bankruptcy Overview

Bankruptcy is the process by which a business that is insolvent may eliminate or modify its existing obligations.   Corporate bankruptcy means any bankruptcy entered into by an entity organized as a corporation, a limited liability company, partnership, limited liability partnership

Resources

Partnership

What is a Partnership? A partnership is a business entity formed by two or more people who operate a business for profit as co-owners.  For the purposes of creating a partnership, a “person” is any entity with its own legal

Toll Free
1-885-245-45635
New York
1-455-245-45623
Toronto
1-657-544-45623