About James T.
James T. Finegan built a career that bridges private practice and firm leadership. He began his academic path at the University of Illinois–Chicago, where he earned a B.S. in Political Science. He went on to earn a J.D. from Northwestern University School of Law, completing the legal training that would underpin a multi-decade practice in Illinois.
Finegan opened his own practice in 1999 under the name Finegan Law Office. He ran that office through the early years of his career, handling an array of client matters and managing the day-to-day demands of a solo practice. In 2018 he established Finegan & Rinker, taking on the role of owner and continuing his work as a trial and transactional lawyer. That shift reflected an evolution from a single-attorney shop to a broader practice structure.
Colleagues describe him as methodical in court preparation and deliberate at the negotiation table. He has experience managing cases from initial intake through resolution. His work has required running discovery, arguing motions, and guiding clients through settlements and trial. He also took on the administrative tasks that come with running a law office, including client relations and firm operations.
Over the years Finegan remained tied to the Illinois bar and its local practice environment. He maintained professional memberships that kept him connected to continuing legal education and peer networks. He has balanced courtroom work with counseling clients on legal strategy, and he has overseen associates and support staff as his practice grew.
Today he practices through Finegan & Rinker in Illinois. He has steered the firm since 2018 and retains responsibility for case management and client advisement. He continues to accept matters in the state where he is licensed and to handle both litigation and transactional work as needed. He currently practices law in Illinois through Finegan & Rinker.
