Michael G. Horstman Jr.

Michael G. Horstman Jr. is a seasoned Illinois attorney whose practice focuses on real estate, business formation and transactions, taxation, and estate planning. A partner at Sorling Northrup Attorneys since 2003, he provides strategic counsel to businesses, developers, and tax-exempt organizations across Illinois. Known for his analytical skill and practical insight, Michael helps clients navigate complex legal matters involving commercial development, tax compliance, and business governance.

Michael earned his J.D. from Washington University School of Law and his B.A. with distinction in Finance and Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Prior to joining Sorling Northrup Attorneys, he served as Chief Counsel to the Jane Addams Hull House Association in Chicago, where he advised one of the state’s largest nonprofit social service agencies. His work there gave him deep experience handling regulatory, operational, and structural issues for 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(6) entities—a focus that continues to define much of his practice today.

At Sorling Northrup, Michael represents clients in major commercial and residential real estate transactions, including acquisitions, sales, zoning, annexation, and financing. He advises developers on public and private financing strategies, such as Tax Increment Financing (TIF) Districts and Special Service Areas, and provides counsel on entity structure and tax planning. His clients rely on his comprehensive understanding of both the legal and business dimensions of real estate and corporate operations.

In addition to his practice, Michael G. Horstman Jr. has lectured on tax-exempt law, real estate ethics, and business formation and co-authored a chapter in the IICLE Illinois Business Law volume. He is admitted to the Illinois Bar and the U.S. District Courts for the Central and Northern Districts of Illinois, serving clients with professionalism, precision, and trusted legal guidance.

Law Office Affiliations

• Attorney, Sorling Northrup Attorneys
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, Chicago Bar Association
• Member, Sangamon County Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association

Licensed State

• Illinois
• Chicago

Education

• Washington University School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Illinois
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Awards & Badges