FAQ: Liquor Law

The Liquor Law Attorneys of Ciesla & Ciesla, P.C. is a Chicago area law firm that concentrates on representing businesses and organizations that seek to obtain or are currently holding liquor licenses. We are familiar with the unique legal issues liquor licensing and regularly counsel clients on a variety of those issues.

Getting a Liquor License - Frequently Asked Questions

Isn't the process simple, why do I need a lawyer?

Obtaining a liquor license can be a complicated and time consuming process that differs from State to State, and municipality to municipality. It's not as simple as filling out a form and paying a fee. Hiring experienced council can prove to be a valuable asset in the process, and is likely to save you money in the long run. Remember, establishments that serve and sell alcoholic beverages can add value to a community by increasing sales tax revenues, employment opportunities and enhancing community offerings, but they and their owners and operators are heavily scrutinized because of the serious risks involved, for example, over service, service to minors, etc. The Liquor Law Attorneys of Ciesla & Ciesla have experience in advising businesses and not-for-profits on how to best proceed when moving to obtain a liquor license.

How much does it cost to get a liquor license?

Liquor license fees vary by municipality and are largely dependent upon a business' use. An important fact to consider is that in many communities, liquor license application fees are non-refundable; therefore, those that present incomplete or technically defective applications that are rejected may be out a substantial amount of time and money - a situation which may have been avoided by hiring experienced counsel. Attorneys fees vary for different municipalities and the complexity of the issues presented. At your initial visit, after we gain an understanding of what your plan involves, we will be better able to provide you with a fee estimate.

How long does it take to get a liquor license?

The time it takes to get a liquor license varies just as the fees do. Timing is dependent initially upon how prepared the client is, for example: has a location been selected, has the business been formally established, etc. Next, much is dependent upon the specific circumstances of the business plan and contemplated location, for example: has a lease been negotiated, is the location properly zoned, are there enough parking spaces, will there be live entertainment, will there be a beer garden or outdoor service, etc. In some cases, an applicant may have to address some of these issues prior to or in conjunction with the liquor license application. Then, once those middle steps are addressed, how long will it take for the City or town to process the application through all governmental levels, which may include staff reviews or Board actions. Again, learning the details of a business plan and understanding the local rules and regulations will help in gauging how long the process will take.

How do I get an Application?

Many communities will not provide an individual or a business with a liquor license application unless you first personally meet with staff to present your plan, or in some cases, you may be required to make a presentation before an entire village board prior to being issued an application. The Liquor Law Attorneys of Ciesla & Ciesla have experience preparing and making effective and informative presentations to staff, appointed and elected officials. The first impression you and your business makes when exploring the possibility of entering a community can be key to your continued progress and success in the application process.

What else is involved in the process?

The process of obtaining a municipal liquor license may involve other necessary steps, like clearing zoning codes, obtaining special use permits, variances, etc. or even securing additional licenses and permits. Background checks and financial disclosures are also involved. So, while you may have the impression that a liquor license is all you need, an experienced analysis of your complete business plan is essential in determining whether you need to obtain other licenses and permits. Unnecessary delays in opening your establishment on-time can cost a significant amount of money.

What if all of the "available" liquor licenses are issued where I want to open my business?

In some situations, this may not be a significant obstacle in your process. Under some circumstances, it may be possible to appear before a Municipality to request that another license be issued for your use. The Liquor Law Attorneys of Ciesla & Ciesla have experience working with Municipalities on these type of special applications.

Contact Our Experienced Liquor Law Attorneys

We have experience with clients in a variety of businesses throughout Illinois, including the counties of Cook, Lake, DuPage, Kane, Will and McHenry.

When you need a Liquor Law Attorney who is dedicated to meet the needs of your business, please contact the Liquor Law Attorneys of Ciesla & Ciesla, P.C. Contact us or call us at (847) 412-1988 to schedule an initial consultation. We offer evening and weekend hours upon special request.