The McKeown Law Firm's rich history began over a century ago when John H. Savage opened a law office in downtown Joliet's Cutter Building. He began a long partnership with James Holbrook, the man credited with developing the first codified City of Joliet ordinances. The law firm expanded in the 1930s with the addition of Charles J. McKeown. Paul O. McKeown joined the law firm, known before World War II as Savage, Holbrook and McKeown, after his four-year service in Europe with the Army Corps of Engineers. Joseph C. Fitzgerald became a partner in 1958 and is the only surviving member of the original firm. Joseph C. Fitzgerald became a partner in 1958 and retired in 1997.

Growth of the McKeown Law firm continued in the 1960's with the additions of Max E. Zollner, former Congressman George E. Sangmeister, Richard T. Buck, Douglas P. Hutchison and his father, retired judge, Stewart C. Hutchison. In 1977 the firm pioneered to western Joliet, where it built its current office located at 2455 Glenwood Avenue and added a branch office in Frankfort, Illinois.

The McKeown Law Firm maintains a tradition of volunteering and community service. Our attorneys and staff have served on the boards of numerous local institutions including: the Joliet YMCA, the Will County Center for Economic Development, Cornerstone, the Joliet Region Chamber of Commerce, Joliet Hospice, United Cerebral Palsy of Will County, the Will/Grundy Medical Clinic, Joliet Rotary, Kiwanis and Lions Clubs, and the George Werden Boys and Girls Club.

In 2000 the firm celebrated its 100th anniversary under its current name of McKeown, Fitzgerald, Zollner, Buck, Hutchison, & Ruttle. While proud of our history, we refuse to rest on our reputation. The McKeown Law firm is committed to providing the highest standard of service and integrity. Each member of the firm pledges prompt, effective legal representation for each and every client.