Mid-term elections may not be popular but they matter

“Our voices matter. Our participation matters.

Democracy works best 
when we all participate.”



- Attorney Howard Ankin

As an attorney who has spent decades standing up 
for the rights of injured workers and families across Chicagoland and Illinois, I have seen firsthand how public policy shapes our daily lives. That is why voting in the Chicago midterm elections is so important. Our city doesn’t run on headlines and speeches; it runs on decisions made by elected officials who determine funding for schools, public safety, transportation, and the courts. When we cast our ballots, we choose the direction of those decisions.

The courtroom has taught me that silence rarely leads to justice. The same principle applies to our democracy. If we do not participate, others will decide for us. Voting is how we speak collectively about the kind of Chicago we want for our children, our neighborhoods, and our local businesses.

Midterm elections may not attract the same attention as presidential contests, but they are just as critical. Local leaders influence property taxes, public transit, law enforcement priorities, and community development. These issues affect our everyday lives in tangible ways. When we stay home, we give up our opportunity to shape those outcomes.

We are fortunate to live in a free and democratic society where the right to vote is protected. Many around the world do not share that privilege. Participating in elections honors those who fought to secure that right and strengthens the foundation of our republic.

I urge every eligible voter in Chicago to register, learn about the candidates, and cast a ballot. Our voices matter. Our participation matters. Democracy works best when we all take part.

Through Injury and Loss, Adlai Found Support at Ankin Law

After a workplace injury and the sudden loss of his wife, Adlai knew he had someone in his corner—his attorney 
at Ankin Law. Injured on the job in August 2022, the Chicago resident found the firm through a TV commercial and called 312.600.0000. Attorney Phil Risley and Legal Assistant Jocelyn Perez helped him obtain medical care and
a settlement while supporting him through the loss of his wife during the case.

“It's easy for a person to say, 'I feel your pain,' but you can feel Phil's compassion toward the people he represents. That meant a lot to me." -Adlai

Watch Adlai

Meet Attorney Telly Liapis, one of Ankin Law’s first partners

A native of Chicago’s Bronzeville neighborhood is giving back to her hometown through a unique program that combines sports and science, and that's why Noma Shields is one of Ankin Law’s “Chicagoans You Should Know.”

In 2024, she incorporated the Youth Sports Science Institute, which teaches the science of sports using technology to students in Chicagoland. What started as a few boxing classes has evolved into YSSI, where Shields uses a two-track approach to support the youth in her programs. The system has caught the attention of several organizations in Chicago, from major hospitals to even sports teams like the Chicago Bulls. 

Shields is the latest to be featured in Ankin Law’s “Chicagoans You Should Know” series, which spotlights people across Chicagoland who are making positive contributions to our community.

Watch Noma's Story

Investigating Mass Torts

Social Media Addiction Lawsuits: A Brief Overview

Courts across the United States are now addressing lawsuits alleging that major social media

platforms were intentionally designed to be addictive and caused serious mental health harm —

particularly to children and teenagers. The cases are often compared to earlier tobacco litigation because they focus on whether companies engineered products to maximize use despite known risks.

The lawsuits claim platforms used features such as infinite scrolling, algorithmic content

recommendations, and persistent notifications to encourage compulsive engagement.

In other words, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and others use features that

effectively create an atmosphere that prevents one from just stopping.

Typical Case Criteria

While each claim depends on individual facts, courts generally evaluate cases involving young users

who meet the following factors:

 • Began using the platform before age 18 

 • 18• 25 years old or younger at the time suit is filed

 • High-volume use, commonly averaging 3 or more hours per day

Documented medical or psychological harm showing serious injury, such as:

 • Depression or severe anxiety

 • Eating disorders

 • Self-harm or suicidal ideation

 • Loss of money

 • Body image disorders

Evidence frequently includes app usage data, treatment records, and documented behavioral changes.

If you or someone you know has experienced any of the above issues, contact Ankin Law for information 

on whether you qualify. Call 312.600.0000.

For more informaiton on socal media addiction, click here.

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Do you have a question? We're here to help. Call Ankin Law at 312.600.0000 for a Free Consultation.