“Helping People Achieve Their Goals—And Digging Deeper to Deliver Solutions”

John Elias is a seasoned legal strategist and community-focused leader with more than three decades of experience shaping outcomes across the legal, real estate, and entrepreneurial sectors. As the Managing Attorney at John Elias & Associates and a distinguished mentor within the nation’s largest business networking organization, BNI, he has consistently demonstrated a unique blend of legal acumen, business foresight, and civic commitment. His ability to navigate complex legal frameworks while catalyzing business growth and community development has earned him a reputation as a dynamic leader and trusted advisor.

Raised with a strong belief in justice and driven by the power of persistence, John’s professional journey began in earnest with his Juris Doctor from the University of San Diego, where he was a member of the Phi Delta Phi Legal Fraternity. Prior to that, he graduated Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a Bachelor of Science in Justice Studies and Sociology, laying the sociological and legal foundation that would come to define his career. These academic achievements were not just accolades—they were reflections of a deeper purpose: to use the law not merely as a tool for litigation, but as a vehicle for empowerment, equity, and impact.

His early career as a Senior Assistant Public Defender in DuPage County offered critical courtroom experience across felony, misdemeanor, juvenile, and traffic cases. John distinguished himself not only by his thorough trial preparation and litigation skills but also through his compassion for underserved populations. During this formative period, he honed his ability to work through high-stakes legal matters while never losing sight of the human stories behind the cases. He also gained exposure to involuntary commitment proceedings and abuse and neglect litigation—complex areas that shaped his nuanced understanding of legal responsibility and societal need.

In 2001, John founded John Elias & Associates, a Chicago-based law firm specializing in real estate and eviction litigation. Branded as Chicago’s official “Kick’Em Out Quick” eviction attorney, he quickly established himself as a legal authority for landlords and property managers navigating the intricate landscape of municipal housing law. John’s expertise spans the Chicago Residential Landlord Tenant Ordinance (RLTO), the Cook County Tenant Landlord Ordinance, lease negotiation and drafting, municipal violations, and litigation strategy. His courtroom prowess and motion practice have consistently delivered favorable outcomes—including dismissals and summary judgments—cementing his reputation as a client-first, result-driven advocate.

Beyond litigation, John has cultivated deep roots in Chicago’s real estate community. With an extensive background in residential and commercial closings, he’s guided countless property transactions with an attention to detail and integrity that clients have come to rely on. His licensure as a title insurance agent and former real estate and insurance broker underscore his multidimensional grasp of the real estate ecosystem. John’s understanding of property law is not siloed within the courtroom—it is enriched by a practical, operational understanding of the real estate market.

What further distinguishes John is his commitment to professional development and business mentorship. Since 2012, he has served as a Director Consultant with BNI, the world’s largest business networking organization. In this capacity, he mentors over 75 business owners across four Chicago business groups, coaching them on referral strategies, leadership development, and sustainable business practices. John’s role within BNI goes beyond facilitation—he is a catalyst for growth, often inspiring entrepreneurs to build stronger networks, expand their client base, and reimagine what success can look like.

John’s civic-mindedness is also evident in his longstanding board membership with Lakeside Community Development Corporation, a nonprofit focused on housing stability and equitable development. As a board member, he provides strategic oversight on financing, legal compliance, and grant application processes, demonstrating his belief that every professional has a role to play in uplifting communities. His advocacy extends into the realm of affordable housing and fair access, bridging his legal skills with a strong moral compass.

Even outside of his professional endeavors, John’s character shines through. He is an active supporter of animal welfare, dedicating time and resources to pet rescue and dog advocacy. He also enjoys coin collecting—a hobby that mirrors his professional ethos of detail orientation and thoughtful accumulation of knowledge. These personal interests offer a glimpse into a well-rounded individual whose dedication to purpose is matched only by his compassion for others.

With 33 years of cumulative experience, John continues to evolve while remaining grounded in the values that have guided his career: integrity, diligence, and a solutions-first mindset. Today, he is actively exploring opportunities to serve on advisory boards, particularly within real estate, finance, and startup ecosystems. John brings not only legal and operational expertise but a deeply human perspective—rooted in service, strategy, and an unwavering belief in helping others achieve their goals.

Character:
John Elias exemplifies character through a steadfast dedication to justice, ethics, and community uplift. His passion for mentorship, public service, and advocacy is woven into the fabric of his professional and personal pursuits, reflecting a life guided by integrity and empathy.

Knowledge:
With deep expertise in real estate law, litigation strategy, and business operations, John commands a multifaceted knowledge base that is both practical and principled. His ability to synthesize complex legal and business concepts allows him to deliver sound, strategic counsel in high-stakes environments.

Strategic:
John has consistently demonstrated strategic foresight, from founding and scaling a successful law practice to mentoring entrepreneurs and serving on nonprofit boards. His talent lies in seeing the broader landscape—identifying opportunities, navigating challenges, and implementing sustainable solutions.

Communication:
As a skilled litigator, mentor, and public speaker on real estate topics, John communicates with clarity, confidence, and credibility. Whether advocating in court, presenting to entrepreneurs, or collaborating with nonprofit stakeholders, he builds trust through transparent and effective dialogue.