Richard T. West's educational background and experience make him ideally suited to a legal practice concentrating on business and financial matters, with a strong emphasis on complex litigation.

A 1969 graduate of the University of Illinois College of Law, Mr. West also holds a bachelor of science degree in finance from the University of Illinois. Born and raised in Chicago, he has practiced law in the Champaign-Urbana community since 1971 and is licensed to practice in both Illinois and Indiana. Prior to beginning his legal career, he served two years as an officer in the U.S. Army, including a tour of duty in Vietnam.

In his legal career, Rick has handled matters on behalf of both plaintiffs and defendants in state and federal courts and at all appellate levels. He has handled matters involving such diverse areas as intellectual property, computer software, health care law, construction disputes, products liability, class actions and banking, corporate and fiduciary duty obligations.

Clients involved in non-litigation matters also benefit from Mr. West's experience in litigation. His ability to recognize potential problems and recommend steps to avoid them lessens the possibility of conflicts in the future.

Mr. West is a member of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America, as well as the American, Illinois State and Champaign County Bar Associations. He has been a contributing author to the Illinois Bar Journal.

In the civic arena, Mr. West has been Chairman of the Champaign Chamber of Commerce, founding chairman of the Champaign-Urbana Convention and Visitors Bureau, and a past director of a national educational foundation. In addition, he has served on a variety of boards and committees within and without the Champaign-Urbana community.

Rick and his wife, Marsha, reside in Champaign. For relaxation, they enjoy boating, golf, travel and fine dining.