Samuel R. Serpe

Samuel R. Serpe, known as Sam, joined Atlas Law Center in 2023 and has played an important role in helping grow the firm’s consumer protection practice since that time. Sam focuses his practice on consumer protection matters involving the Consumer Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA), Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA), Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA), Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA), Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA), and state unfair and deceptive acts and practices (UDAP) laws. He brings a multidisciplinary background in legal research, corporate law, communications, and digital marketing to his practice and is committed to protecting consumers’ rights and helping clients navigate complex legal issues involving unfair or unlawful business practices.

Experience & Approach

Sam earned his Juris Doctor from Northern Illinois University College of Law in May 2023, graduating cum laude. During law school, he served as a Student Attorney with the Northern Illinois University Business Law Innovation Clinic under a 711 License, where he interviewed clients, conducted legal research, and compared laws across jurisdictions. His work in the clinic provided him with practical experience addressing legal issues involving business and consumer matters.

Since joining Atlas Law Center, Sam has dedicated his practice to consumer protection and has contributed to the growth and development of the firm’s Consumer Practice. His work includes matters involving CROA, FDCPA, EFTA, ECOA, FCRA, TCPA, and UDAP laws. He is committed to conducting thorough legal research, understanding each client’s circumstances, and developing thoughtful strategies to protect consumers and hold businesses accountable when they violate the law.

Sam also brings valuable experience in communications and digital marketing to his legal practice. While attending Northern Illinois University, he served as a Digital Marketing Graduate Assistant, where he developed his skills in writing, interviewing, communications, and Adobe Creative Suite.

Before becoming an attorney, Sam also worked as an instructor and coach through the City of McHenry Parks and Recreation Department, teaching high school students the fundamentals of water polo. His experience as a coach strengthened his ability to communicate complex concepts clearly, adapt to different circumstances, and work collaboratively with others.

Why I Practice Law

Sam’s decision to pursue a career in law was deeply influenced by his father, who strongly encouraged him to attend graduate school and, in particular, law school. During Sam’s senior year of college, his father passed away unexpectedly in September 2019. Pursuing a legal career became a meaningful way for Sam to honor his father’s vision for his future.

That experience continues to influence Sam’s approach to his profession. He values the opportunity to use his legal education and skills to help people understand and protect their rights, particularly when they are facing unfair or unlawful treatment. For Sam, practicing law is not only about understanding the law but also about using that knowledge to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people he represents.

Education

Northern Illinois University College of Law
Juris Doctor, cum laude — May 2023

Northern Illinois University
Bachelor of Arts, Journalism — May 2020
Minor in Communications
Graduated cum laude

McHenry County College
Associate of Arts — June 2018

Bar Admissions

Illinois — 2023
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois — 2024
U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois — 2024
U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois — 2024

Areas of Practice

Consumer Protection
Consumer Credit Repair Organizations Act (CROA)
Fair Debt Collection Practices Act (FDCPA)
Electronic Fund Transfer Act (EFTA)
Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA)
Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA)
Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)
Unfair and Deceptive Acts and Practices (UDAP)

Outside the Office

Outside of work, Sam is a diehard Chicago sports fan and proudly supports the White Sox, Bears, and Blackhawks. He is also an avid concertgoer, with Green Day, Stone Temple Pilots, and Collective Soul among his favorite bands.

Sam plays both guitar and bass and enjoys spending time with his wife watching their favorite television shows, including The Pitt, It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson.

Favorite Quote

“If you don’t stick to your values when they’re being tested, they’re not values. They’re hobbies.”
— Jon Stewart