Johanna Bukowski
1 month ago
Ed and Maggie have both been a pleasure to work with! They keep you up to date on your case, clearly explain the process and next steps along the way, respond quickly to any questions and always offer different options to discuss details (email, phone, text, Zoom, etc.). What I appreciate more than anything, is their genuine compassion and concern for you as a person. They both demonstrate true empathy for what is most likely one of the most unexpected and traumatic events in a person’s life and do everything they can to ensure justice is served. I highly recommend Collins Law!
Jeff Matticks
2 months ago
I became aware of Collins Law Group after I was involved in a motorcycle, several years ago. Since that time I have reached out to Ed Manzke, at Collins Law Group, for assistance in a couple of other areas. In each instance, I have found Ed and his team to be very helpful with great communication, keeping me informed every step along the way. Everyone who I have interacted with, at Collins Law Group, demonstrated that they are interested in building relationships so that you know who you can turn to for any of your legal needs.
Ella Folson
3 months ago
Chris and John were attentive and thorough to my needs throughout my entire case. I appreciate the all the time and effort they took. I will be recommending their services going forward to family and friends! Thank you so much for all your help!
J. Savv
3 months ago
Ed Manzke was very patient and kind with helping me and my sister with our mom’s case. He often took the time out his day to explain everything to ensure we understood what was going on. The law firm itself is organized making our whole process run smoothly. I appreciate Ed and his team.
Unique Morris
3 months ago
Ed Manzke was very informative, clear and honest when it came to my mother and father’s case. He took his time with all of my questions and concerns, making sure that no questions went unanswered and that there was no room for confusion with our case. I’m forever grateful for Ed and everyone at the law firm.
Nick Erlenbaugh
3 months ago
Collins Law was recommended to me after I was involved in an accident with a semi-truck. Amber Blevins was exceptional to work with. She is a total pro at what she does and made the process as easy as she could for me. Ed ensured I received the best outcome possible and exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend this firm to anyone who might be shopping around for an attorney!
Dwayne Kurfirst
3 months ago
I want to take a moment to recognize John at Collins Law for the incredible work he did in helping my mom secure her settlement. It wasn’t a quick or easy process—it took time, patience, and persistence—but John stayed committed every step of the way. What stood out most was his professionalism, attention to detail, and genuine care for getting the best possible outcome. He kept us informed, navigated the complexities with confidence, and ultimately delivered results that truly made a difference for our family. If you’re looking for someone who will put in the work, stand by you through a long process, and follow through, I highly recommend John and the team at Collins Law.
Helen Montague
5 months ago
We are fortunate to have had the chance to work with John Risvold as he represented my brother in his case. Professional, personable and authentic in his manner, John kept us informed throughout the long process, and was always available to respond to my many questions. Having never been involved with a law suit, I really appreciated John's patience (especially since I am 1,000 miles away) and his genuine care for my brother's well being. We are forever grateful, John. Thank you.
Matthew Malone
6 months ago
I had an excellent experience being represented by Collins Law Firm. Ed Manzke and Amber Blevins were amazing to work with and truly helped me in my time of need. Both were extremely personable and knowledgeable throughout every step of the way. I would absolutely recommend them for anyone’s legal needs.
Ronnie Sanchez
6 months ago
I had an excellent experience with The Collins Law firm. Amber was extremely helpful, kind, and friendly throughout the entire process. She took the time to explain everything clearly whenever I didn’t understand something, which meant a lot to me. I truly felt supported and informed. I will absolutely seek Collin’s help again if I ever need legal assistance in the future. Thank you again :)
Maddie Scheele
6 months ago
I cannot say enough wonderful things about Ed Manzke and Amber Blevins. They are truly the best of the best. The efficiency and professionalism throughout the entire process of my case has been unmatched. What I really want to point out, though, is the empathy and compassion both Amber and Ed hold. That was the true difference maker. I knew they both prioritized my well-being and made that their number one priority. They represented me to their highest capabilities through every step of my case, and I cannot thank them and Collins Law Firm enough.
Leticia Pink
7 months ago
Ms. Maggie Galka is an experienced environmental (radon) attorney who prioritizes her clients' health and safety in her legal practice. She maintains thorough records and offers strategic advice while working with government agencies. Ms. Galka demonstrates key values such as integrity, expertise, respect, empathy, and compassion essential for positive outcomes. Her professionalism, follow-up and communication skills are excellent. Ms. Galka's guidance extends beyond legal issues, and the Collins Law Firm advocates strongly and effectively for clients. We sincerely thank Collins Law Firm, and in particular Ms. Galka, for helping our family reach a successful outcome and for their meaningful impact on our community. I strongly recommend Ms. Galka and Collins Law Firm as an outstanding legal firm.
Megan
7 months ago
I can’t say enough good things about John Risvold at The Collins Law Firm. From start to finish, John was professional, responsive, and incredibly knowledgeable. He took the time to explain everything clearly, kept me informed throughout the process, and always made me feel like my case truly mattered. His dedication, attention to detail, and genuine care made a stressful situation much easier to handle. John’s expertise and clear communication built a lot of trust, and I’m very grateful for his hard work. I would highly recommend John Risvold to anyone looking for a reliable and skilled attorney.
David Bretti
7 months ago
(Translated by Google) They are very responsible in what they do, they were able to resolve my case quickly and efficiently, I especially recommend Mr. Chris for always being in contact and being honest throughout the process 👏🏻 (Original) Son muy responsables en lo que hacen, pudieron resolver mi caso de forma rápida y eficaz, recomendando, especialmente el Se Chris por siempre estar en contacto y ser sincero en todo el proceso 👏🏻
Jas R.
7 months ago
Amber was very thorough, informative, and made this process very easy for me, which I greatly appreciated considering all the events that led up to this point. Justice isn’t always served, but working with Collin’s Law Firm really me feel that my injuries were tangibly worth something, and that to some degree, justice was served. Would highly recommend this law firm to anyone seeking out a personal injury firm/attorney.
Amy Ressen
8 months ago
I wana say a huge thank you to the Collin’s Law firm and Chris Gauthier for helping me with my Complicated case. They helped me put my life back together after a horrible incident that I didn’t think I could over come. Chris was always good about communicating and he made sure I got what I deserved! I highly recommend this law firm they were so kind and reassuring that things would work out. Thank you again for all the hard work and being there to help me through the process when I didn’t know where to turn to for help! Thanks again Chris and The Collin’s Law firm!
Lauren Dryanski
9 months ago
I had an exceptional experience with Collins Law Firm . A special thank you to Chris, my lawyer, and Patti, the legal assistant. They helped me navigate my car accident proceedings from start to finish, and I always felt like I was in great hands. Chris was incredibly knowledgeable, easy to talk to, and explained everything in a way I could understand. He always made sure I felt informed and supported, especially when it came to legal details I wouldn’t normally know. Patti was also wonderful—very helpful, communicative, and always made sure I had everything I needed throughout the process. I never once doubted this team. They made everything easy and stress-free. I would absolutely recommend Collins Law Firm to anyone in need of legal support!
Will Brooks
10 months ago
John brings impressive expertise and heartfelt dedication to every matter he handles. His thoughtful approach and clear communication make it easy to trust his advice, and it’s evident he is committed to fighting for what’s right with both professionalism and empathy. John’s balance of insightful expertise and warm, personal attention truly sets him apart.
Icela Hernandez
11 months ago
If ever needed. I will gladly go to the Collins law firm again. They were always quick to respond any questions. Happy to say case is closed and all went well .
Sharif Maadi
1 year ago
I’ve had the opportunity to co-counsel with John Risvold and he is a great attorney. He brings a high level of experience, strategic insight, and tenacity to every case. Truly an asset to the personal injury field. Rest assured, your case is in good hands with this firm
In your home and neighborhood, you should not have to fear toxic chemicals making you sick. Exposure to substances like PFAS, ethylene oxide, benzene, vinyl chloride, TCE or PCE can leave you with devastating long-term health effects like cancer, respiratory ailments, and birth defects, which is why you need to be protected from these dangers.
Get a free, no-obligation case review. We're available 24/7 and you pay nothing unless we win.
At Collins Law Group, we are relentless in our pursuit of polluters who endanger your health with toxic chemical contamination. We won’t stop fighting until you get clean air, clean water, toxin free homes, and compensation for your injuries. Contact us to arrange a free initial consultation with an experienced toxic chemical exposure attorney who cares about your health and your home.
Over the last 25 years, we have built a reputation throughout the Chicago area and the country for our ability to protect the rights and secure needed compensation for our toxic exposure clients. When you need a champion to go to battle for you, we are ready and willing to fight.
A large portion of our practice focuses on representing individuals and families who are the victims of environmental contamination due to corporations' negligent and reckless actions. This practice has grown nationwide, and we have helped thousands of families get the safe homes, drinking water and neighborhoods they deserve.
This environmental law work has given us a strong understanding of the science behind toxic chemical exposure. Moreover, we know the strategies big corporate polluters use to try to escape responsibility for their actions and twist the science, and we refuse to let them get away with it. We use the law and science to fight these Goliaths and hold them accountable. As a victim and as our client, you can be sure that you are being represented by toxic chemical exposure attorneys who know what you are going through and are dedicated to getting you the protection and compensation you deserve.
We know how to conduct a thorough investigation, prepare witnesses and experts, and build a solid case for trial so you can focus on your family’s health and safety.
Below is a list of some of the most common chemical contaminants in the United States. These toxic chemicals can be a threat to your health and should be taken seriously. If you have gotten a notice about any of these contaminants in your neighborhood air or water supply, you should contact our toxic chemical exposure attorneys for advice on what to do next to protect your family.
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals used in various industries and in consumer products like firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics. PFAS contamination is commonly found in water sources near industrial sites, military bases, and areas where firefighting foam has been used. People can be exposed to PFAS through contaminated drinking water, food, and consumer products. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has evaluated the carcinogenicity of two types of PFAS and has classified PFOA as “carcinogenic to humans” and PFOS as “possibly carcinogenic to humans,”. Exposure to these toxic chemicals has been associated with kidney and testicular cancer. Numerous lawsuits are pending against manufacturers like 3M and DuPont, alleging they knew about the risks of PFAS contamination but failed to warn the public.
TCE is a volatile organic compound (VOC) used primarily as an industrial solvent for cleaning metal parts. It can be found in soil and groundwater near industrial sites where TCE was used or disposed of improperly. People can be exposed through vapor inhalation, contaminated drinking water, or occupational contact with TCE. The Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), the EPA, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have all classified TCE as carcinogenic to humans. TCE exposure has been linked in human studies to liver cancer, kidney cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. We have settled major TCE lawsuits against companies like Lockformer, Honeywell, and Kraft Foods on behalf of families and neighborhoods affected by TCE vapors and groundwater contamination.
PCE, also known as tetrachloroethylene, has been widely used in dry cleaners and as a metal degreaser in factories. For this reason, PCE contamination is often found in soil and groundwater near dry cleaning facilities and industrial sites. Exposure can occur through inhalation of contaminated air, drinking contaminated water, and occupational contact. In 2023, due to the health risks associated with PCE, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) proposed a 10-year phase-out of PCE in dry cleaning, and a ban on manufacturing PCE for consumer uses within two years. IARC has classified PCE as a probable human carcinogen based on studies linking it to bladder cancer, multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
Ethylene oxide (ETO) is a flammable gas used to sterilize medical equipment and in the production of chemicals. It can be found in the air near sterilization facilities and industrial plants that produce or use ethylene oxide. People can be exposed when they inhale air emissions from industrial facilities or work with ETO in their occupation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified ethylene oxide (ETO) as a group 1 carcinogen, meaning it is carcinogenic to humans. The US EPA also classifies ETO as a “known human carcinogen”. Ethylene oxide exposure is associated with breast cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma, leukemia, other lymphomas, and miscarriages. Sterilization companies have faced lawsuits from individuals living near their plants, who have alleged that ETO emissions have caused their cancer or other health issues.
Vinyl chloride (VC) is a colorless gas used to produce PVC (polyvinyl chloride) plastic. VC can also be formed when TCE and PCE degrade in groundwater. Contamination can be found in the air and groundwater near manufacturing plants and hazardous waste sites. People can be exposed to vinyl chloride through inhalation of contaminated air and drinking contaminated water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have classified vinyl chloride as a known human carcinogen. Exposure to vinyl chloride can cause an increased risk of a rare form of liver cancer (hepatic angiosarcoma), as well as primary liver cancer (hepatocellular carcinoma), brain and lung cancers, leukemia, and lymphoma.
Benzene is a widely used industrial chemical found in products such as plastics, resins, and synthetic fibers. Since benzene is a natural part of crude oil and gasoline, it is found in emissions from burning coal or oil, motor vehicle exhaust, and evaporation from gasoline service stations. Benzene contamination can occur in the air, water, and soil near industrial sites, oil refineries, and gas stations . People can be exposed to benzene through inhalation of polluted air, drinking contaminated water, and occupational contact. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have both classified benzene as a group 1 carcinogen, i.e., known to cause cancer in humans. Benzene exposure has been linked with acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), multiple myeloma, and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
PCBs are synthetic organic chemicals once used in electrical equipment, heat transfer fluids, light ballasts, caulking. PCBs persist in the environment and can be found in older buildings as well as soil, water, and air near manufacturing sites. People can be exposed through ingestion of contaminated food (especially fish), inhalation of polluted air, and occupational contact. Based on sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans and animals, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified PCBs as carcinogenic to humans. PCB exposure is associated with liver cancer, melanoma, and some class II and class III PCBs are associated with breast cancer. Companies like Monsanto have faced numerous lawsuits for PCB contamination and its environmental and health impacts.
Toxic chemical exposure lawsuits aim to hold polluters accountable for the harm caused by exposure to hazardous chemicals. Here are three basic types of toxic chemical exposure lawsuits:
Our toxic chemical exposure attorneys know how to win when pursuing a toxic tort personal injury or property damage claim. We also have a record of winning environmental class action claims. We have the experience and resources to take these complex cases to trial and beat the corporations that pollute without fear of consequences. Our successes include:
We are also currently representing thousands of people in a class action case involving an industrial explosion and a toxic plume of contamination.
Contact our law firm today if you or a family member is suffering due to toxic chemical exposure. Our experienced and aggressive trial lawyers are ready and willing to fight for you. We take all our environmental cases on a contingency basis, meaning you will not owe us anything unless we recover compensation for you. So, you have nothing to lose by calling us at (630) 527-1595 to schedule a free consultation.
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