Giffin, Winning, Cohen and Bodewes, P.C.

About

Paulette uses a team approach to problem solving and will take the time to find out exactly what you need. She will analyze the situation, explain the various options and expectations, then develop a cost-effective and efficient strategy to achieve your goals. She believes it is important for clients to understand the risks of their current legal situation. After deciding on a strategy, Paulette will work aggressively to ensure the best possible outcome for you.

Medical Malpractice, Defense, Medical Risk Management, HIPAA, and Healthcare – Paulette regularly works with physicians and physician groups in evaluating the exposure to malpractice claims and defending multimillion dollar malpractice claims. She is knowledgeable regarding the risks and benefits of electronic health records, and issues affecting disclosure of patient records. She established peer review guidelines for a local physician group and worked with the group to implement the guidelines and ensure the information was protected from disclosure.

Special Investigation, Bad Faith Claims, and Insurance Defense - Paulette often advises insurers in the handling of claims before a decision is made to proceed with an examination under oath and provides opinion letters on various matters. She successfully handles special investigations of first party claims for insurance companies. She uses a level-headed cooperative approach to obtaining the necessary information from the insured and related individuals. Paulette also defends insurance carriers in bad faith litigation, coverage issues and claims matters.

Probate – Paulette has drafted wills, trusts and powers of attorney for clients to help them achieve their financial goals in the most tax efficient manner and protect their assets for retirement and the next generation. She has also worked with her clients to ensure their minor children and other family members are cared for in the event the client becomes unable provide such care. Asset protection is frequently a concern of her client’s faced with malpractice or other litigation, and Paulette has successfully protected clients from personal financial exposure.

Corporate – Paulette works with both businesses and non-profit organizations to assist with the many issues that may arise in the course of business. Her clients have benefited from advice regarding incorporation, real estate (whether buying, selling, leasing), loans, contracts, possible liability, tax issues, creditor and collection matters, shareholder/partner disputes, insurance, administrative proceedings, and other issues.

Education:

Washington College of Law, The American University,
Washington, DC, JD, 1997
- Graduated cum laude

State University of New York, Albany, NY, BA, 1992
- Graduated cum laude

Admissions to Practice:

Illinois

U.S. District Court
- Central District of Illinois

US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit

Previous Professional Experience:

Drake, Narup & Mead, PC
- Partner, 2002-2007
- Associate Attorney 1997-2002

Representative Cases:

Welton v. Ambrose, 351 Ill. App. 3d 627 (4th Dist. 2004)

Professional Associations: