About Howard East Business Law Firm
Big-firm skill. Boutique attention. Proven results for businesses in Illinois, Missouri, and New York.
Who We Serve
We work with businesses across:
- Illinois – Peoria/Bloomington/Springfield, Chicago Metro
- Missouri – St. Louis Metro
- New York – NYC, Buffalo, Rochester, and other major markets
Typical clients include:
- Established small-to-mid-sized companies ($5M–$50M annual revenue)
- Professional services firms
- Manufacturing, logistics, healthcare, and technology businesses
- Business owners preparing for succession or exit
Our Mission
At Howard East, we provide strategic, results-driven legal counsel to established small and mid-market companies navigating critical moments — from mergers and acquisitions to complex litigation and regulatory compliance.
We believe in delivering the skill of a big law firm with the responsiveness and personal touch of a boutique practice. Our clients trust us to handle pivotal business challenges with precision, discretion, and a focus on their long-term success.
Meet Our Howard EAST Attorneys
Our Core Practice Areas
- Mergers & Acquisitions – Buy-side, sell-side, and succession planning.
- Commercial Litigation – High-stakes dispute resolution.
- Regulatory Compliance – Federal, state, and industry-specific requirements.
- Administrative Review & Appeals – Challenging adverse agency actions.
- Shareholder Disputes & Fraud Litigation – Protecting ownership rights and investments.

Thomas Howard
Attorney - Illinois, Missouri, Wisconsin
Our Values
- Integrity: We put your interests first, always.
- Excellence: We deliver top-tier legal work without compromise.
- Accessibility: We are responsive and clear in communication.
- Partnership: We see ourselves as part of your business team.
Our Approach
Strategic. Responsive. Results-Oriented.
We start by understanding your business goals, then develop a legal strategy that aligns with your operational priorities. Every case is prepared as if it will go to trial — but we also seek practical, efficient solutions that protect your time, money, and reputation.
Results & Reputation
Our attorneys have achieved
- Multi-million-dollar M&A deals
- Successful defense in complex litigation
- Regulatory approvals in high-compliance industries
- Favorable outcomes in agency appeals