Dark marble texture representing strength and foundation

Who We Are

Built on principle. Driven by precision.

Our Foundation

The Story of Obsidian & Vale

Established in 1998 by the indomitable Eleanor Vale, Obsidian & Vale LLP was forged with a singular mission: to provide uncompromising advocacy in the most challenging legal arenas. We began by taking on complex, high-profile criminal defense cases that others deemed unwinnable, quickly earning a reputation for resilience and strategic brilliance.

Our early victories in landmark federal trials solidified our standing not just in Chicago, but nationally. We became known for meticulous preparation, fearless courtroom presence, and an unwavering commitment to our clients' futures.

Today, Obsidian & Vale has grown into an elite five-member team, carefully curated for diverse expertise yet united by a shared ethos. We remain fiercely dedicated to handling high-stakes litigation across criminal defense, white-collar crime, civil disputes, and reputation management, bringing the same intensity and precision that defined our beginnings.

Our Compass

What Drives Us

Integrity

“We don’t flinch. We don’t fold.”

Precision

“Every move is calculated.”

Courage

“We take the cases others won’t.”

Discretion

“Your case stays yours. Private. Always.”

Portrait of Eleanor Vale, Founder of Obsidian & Vale LLP

“I built this firm for the ones who can’t afford to lose.”

The Visionary

Eleanor Vale

Eleanor Vale is a titan in the Chicago legal landscape. Renowned for her sharp intellect, commanding courtroom presence, and relentless pursuit of justice, she founded Obsidian & Vale with the conviction that elite legal defense should be accessible for the most complex and demanding cases.

With decades of experience navigating high-stakes federal trials and intricate negotiations, Eleanor sets the standard for strategic thinking and unwavering advocacy within the firm. Her legacy is not just in the cases won, but in the culture of excellence and integrity she continues to champion.

The Architects of Defense

Meet Our Elite Team

Portrait of Eleanor Vale

Eleanor Vale

Founder & Senior Partner

Veteran litigator with a national reputation.

Portrait of Jasper Quinn

Jasper Quinn

Managing Partner

Known for courtroom composure and relentless logic.

Portrait of Reina Khatri

Reina Khatri

Head of Civil Litigation

Corporate disputes are her chessboard.

Portrait of Leo Marshall

Leo Marshall

Strategic Client Advisor

Crafts the narrative that wins outside court.

Portrait of Ava Dominguez

Ava Dominguez

Legal Investigator

Sees patterns no one else does.

Recognition

Acknowledged Excellence

Our commitment to exceptional legal practice is consistently recognized by peers and leading legal organizations.

Top Tier Firm Ranking

[Legal Publication Name]

Super Lawyers Honorees

[Number] Attorneys Selected

Bar Association Leadership

Active Committee Members

96% Case Success Rate

In Complex Litigated Matters*

*Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.

When Your Future is On the Line, Don’t Settle.

Experience the difference that principled advocacy and precision strategy make. Contact Obsidian & Vale for a confidential assessment of your case.

Request a Consultation