Xiaoyin Cao
Counsel
Xiao is specializes in franchise, dealership, and business law, providing strategic counsel to franchisees, dealers, independent franchisee associations, and other business clients. With deep experience in contractual, regulatory, and business planning matters, she helps clients navigate legal complexities, mitigate risks, and achieve their business goals.
Franchise & Dealership Litigation
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Legal strategy development and argumentation to strengthen clients’ positions.
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Working with expert witnesses to build strong, well-supported cases.
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Managing complex e-discovery and document-intensive litigation.
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Taking and defending depositions to uncover key evidence.
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Conducting mediations and settlement negotiations to resolve disputes efficiently.
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Jury trials and arbitration hearings, ensuring clients receive top-tier advocacy.
Her ability to handle multi-faceted, high-stakes litigation makes her a valuable advocate for franchisees and business owners seeking to protect their rights and investments.
International Business Transactions & Cross-Border Dispute Resolution
Increasingly, Xiao is focusing on international business transactions and cross-border dispute resolution, advising clients on both inbound and outbound investments.
With a strong understanding of both Western and Chinese business environments, Xiao is a key asset for Chinese companies looking to expand into North America, providing them with insightful legal guidance and practical solutions.
A Trusted Legal & Business Advisor
Xiao is known for her pragmatic, business-minded approach, ensuring that legal strategies are aligned with her clients’ business goals. She excels in spotting potential legal issues early, allowing businesses to proactively mitigate risks in contract negotiations, regulatory compliance, and dispute resolution.
Clients praise Xiao for her holistic perspective, as she takes the time to understand not just their legal needs, but also their business objectives and long-term aspirations. Whether providing day-to-day counsel, negotiating complex contracts, or resolving high-stakes disputes, Xiao is committed to delivering strategic, results-driven solutions.
Admissions
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State Bar of Illinois
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The United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
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China (P.R.C.) (National Judicial Examination certificate)
Education
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J.D., Chicago-Kent College of Law
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L.L.M., Chicago-Kent College of Law (International and Comparative Law)
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L.L.B., China University of Political Science and Law
Professional Contributions
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American Bar Association (Forum on Franchising and Sections of International Law and Business Law)
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Asian American Bar Association (AABA) of the Greater Chicago Area
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Chinese American Bar Association (CABA) of the Greater Chicago
Lectures/Writings
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“Advance Your Case by Analyzing Metadata: E-Discovery Practice Techniques for Solo & Small Firms,” Spring 2021 ABA Forum on Franchising.
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Speaker, 2021 IFA Legal Symposium on Managing Risks in Contract and Relationships due to COVID-19 ABA CLE Program.
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Speaker, Contract and Antitrust Remedies for Supply Chain Issues Facing Retailers and Distributors (Including Franchisees and Dealers), June 2022.