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Leo Sokolov graduated from DePaul University in Chicago with a Bachelor of Arts degree in political science in 2012, and in 2015 he graduated from The John Marshall Law School now known as University of Illinois Chicago Law School with a J.D. in 2015. He received his LLM degree at John Marshall Law School concentrating in Tax in 2018. While in the Juris Doctor program at John Marshall, he also worked as a teaching assistant to Professor Julie M. Spanbauer and earned a CALI award in Constitutional Law. Prior to passing the bar, Leo gained nearly two years of experience working as a clerk for the Law Office of Michael P. Doman from January, 2014 through November, 2015. He then transitioned to an attorney with the firm and was sworn in as an Illinois Attorney in November, 2015. Leo is a member of the Chicago Bar Association and Illinois State Bar Association. He is fluent in Russian.

Family law attorney David Silberman is the founding attorney of Silberman Law Group in Northbrook, Illinois. Mr. Silberman has a long track record of success handling all types of family law matters. He provides clients with honest, reliable legal advice, protecting their best interests and helping to ensure successful, sustainable outcomes. With over 15 years of experience exclusively handling family legal matters, David is known among his clients and peers for his ability to negotiate favorable results outside the courtroom. In cases that don’t reach a settlement, David undertakes meticulous legal analysis to craft strategies to secure favorable outcomes in court. David views litigation as a form of science. He delivers top-tier legal counsel by delving into the intricacies of each case, paying attention to details, and staying updated on evolving laws. David collaborates closely with each client to safeguard their legal rights amid uncertain and trying circumstances. While divorce ranks among life’s most stressful experiences, David effortlessly connects with clients, fostering constructive dialogue with involved parties and legal representatives for the resolution of intricate parenting and financial matters. David’s measured, resolute advocacy and thorough preparation have earned him the admiration of legal professionals and judges throughout the Chicagoland area. While many attorneys claim to be “aggressive,” David distinguishes himself as a highly focused advocate who provides invaluable guidance and legal advice during emotionally taxing periods.

Sean Robertson is the Founder and CEO of Gateville Law Firm, a boutique practice specializing in sophisticated estate planning, tax strategy, business succession, and asset protection for high-net-worth individuals, business owners, real estate investors, and seniors. With over 22 years of experience and an advanced background in tax law and asset protection strategy, Sean is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and families who have built significant wealth protect their assets and transfer their legacy to the next generation. He loves what he does, and that passion comes from understanding that estate planning is not really about documents. It is about relationships, families, and being there when times get challenging—especially in moments of death, incapacity, or major life transition. Recognized as a Best Law Firm by Best of Fox Valley in both 2024 and 2025, Gateville Law Firm is proud to serve the Yorkville community. A Business-Minded Approach Unlike many attorneys who approach legal matters in isolation, Sean understands that business reality and practicality go hand in hand with legal strategy. He has worked extensively with entrepreneurs, business owners, and real estate investors navigating growth, scaling, and operational challenges. His extensive background in commercial real estate transactions gives him unique insight into how to structure and protect diversified assets while supporting business growth. More importantly, he understands the emotional weight of protecting what you have built. Practical Experience When It Matters During the 2008–2013 recession, Sean worked extensively with small business owners, families, real estate investors, and commercial property owners facing unprecedented creditor pressures. He witnessed firsthand the fear families experience when an economic crisis threatens decades of accumulated wealth. His experience demonstrated that asset protection is not theoretical. It is essential, life-changing work that preserves not only wealth but also peace of mind and family security. Sean brings over seven years of significant experience in divorce and family law matters. His hands-on experience with contested asset protection, child support and spousal maintenance issues, and custody matters gives him practical insight into asset protection that goes far beyond planning theory. As a married father navigating a blended family, he personally understands the unique complexities blended families face. This experience informs his deep commitment to helping families navigate complexity with clarity and care. Comprehensive Wealth Planning At the core of Sean's practice is comprehensive estate planning using wills, living trusts, and strategic structures designed to avoid probate, minimize taxes, and ensure families' assets transfer smoothly. Sean knows the real work happens when he helps clients think through their deepest concerns: How do I protect my children's future? What happens if I am suddenly incapacitated? He develops personalized estate plans that address these human concerns—whether protecting assets for beneficiaries, providing for blended families, ensuring business continuity, or planning for long-term care needs. His deep expertise in tax planning and asset protection—including Series LLCs, land trusts, and holding companies—combined with his rigorous tax background enables him to develop comprehensive plans that preserve wealth and position it for growth and efficient transfer. A particular focus is protecting seniors from the devastating financial impact of long-term care costs. He works proactively to develop strategies that preserve life savings while ensuring access to quality care. Building Lifetime Relationships Sean is committed to being a trusted advisor throughout your life—the attorney you call when circumstances change, when you face difficult moments, or when you need guidance. His goal is to become someone you depend on—someone who genuinely cares about your family's well-being and financial security. A graduate of DePaul University College of Law and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, Sean brings both intellectual rigor and genuine care to clients' most complex challenges. He is committed to providing the expert guidance and reliable counsel you need to protect your wealth, grow your business, and leave a meaningful legacy for the people and causes you love.

James A. Podgorny is a sole practicing attorney, which means he will be the only attorney you will deal with at the firm. You will not be shuffled amongst many associates who will not necessarily know the current status of your case, as is commonly found in large law firms. Mr. Podgorny will always know the status of your file, and you can always address your concerns directly with him. Mr. Podgorny will return your telephone calls in a timely manner, leaving you free from the stress and anxiety of worrying if you have an attorney focused on your matter at hand.