Crane and Norcross, LLC, a Chicago-based real estate tax law firm, announced that Cristin Duffy has joined the firm. Duffy previously served as deputy supervisor in the real estate tax division of the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, where she oversaw 14 assistant state’s attorneys in the civil division.
Duffy’s hire is a continuation of the firm’s restructuring and expansion that was initiated last fall, with James P. Boyle being named managing partner and Thomas J. Boyle joining as partner.
“As the rules and procedures related to tax rates and assessments continue to fluctuate in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cristin’s extensive experience and insights gained at the County will no doubt benefit our clients during this challenging time,” said James Boyle. “We are extremely excited to add her to our ranks of talented practitioners as we enhance our service offerings for our clients.”
As deputy supervisor of the State’s Attorney’s real estate tax division, Duffy represented Cook County government agencies, including the Assessor, Treasurer, Collector, Cook County Board, Board of Review and County Clerk. She developed the State’s Attorney’s current administrative hearings process, and she defended the indemnity fund, tax injunction matters, specific objection lawsuits, tax rate objections and PTAB appeals. Among her most high-profile cases, Duffy secured a multi-million-dollar award against the Chicago Bears for outstanding amusement taxes owed by the team. She also previously chaired the State’s Attorney Office’s training and professional development committee.
Earlier in her career, Duffy served in the criminal trial division, representing crime victims and pursued offenders in the traffic, municipal and domestic violence divisions, as well as the felony trial division. Duffy received her undergraduate degree from Indiana University and her law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law.
“I am extremely excited to be joining one of the region’s most preeminent real estate tax firms and this incredible team of attorneys and staff, and I am eager to help our clients navigate the rapidly shifting and always complex tax systems during this tumultuous time,” said Duffy.
