E. Z. Ilionsky, Esq.

Managing Attorney

Eli Zev “E. Z.” Ilionsky is the managing attorney behind Ilionsky Law, PLLC. Born in the former Soviet Union, E. Z. was a child refugee whose family lived as stateless persons in Europe before eventually settling in the United States. This experience has given E. Z. a genuine and lasting appreciation for the rights and freedoms our legal system provides. He zealously employs these beliefs in his law practice.

E. Z. has an extensive experience in and out of the courtroom and is licensed to practice law in the State of Texas and the federal United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas. E. Z. has successfully represented both clients in jury and non-jury trials, hearings, mediations, arbitrations, and administrative hearings. He is an active member of multiple prominent professional legal associations and has been included in the “2021 Texas Rising Stars” list, a distinction reserved for 2.5% of attorneys in Texas. In addition, E. Z. has a Lead Counsel Rating in four areas of law: International Law, Business Law, Family Law, and Civil Litigation. In order to qualify for this, an attorney has to demonstrate that he or she has ample legal experience, a spotless record free of any disciplinary actions, and has been endorsed by peers in the legal profession. E. Z. also speaks Russian on a native level and Hebrew on a proficient level, and his Spanish… leaves a lot to be desired.

Outside of his legal practice, E. Z. enjoys strength training, rugby, and historical fencing. He also engages in amateur study of ancient history, linguistics, anthropology, and ethnography – enough to sound initially interesting but ultimately boring at dinner parties

Education

University at Buffalo Law School
–Juris Doctor, 2006
–Editor, Buffalo Environmental Law Journal

University of Strasbourg, France
– European Union and Continental European Law Program, 2004

University of Houston Law Center
-Visiting Scholar, 2005

University of Houston
–Bachelor of Arts, 2003

Bar Admissions

State of Texas, 2007
United States District Court For The Southern District Of Texas, 2007

Professional Affiliations & Recognitions

SuperLawyers – Rising Star of 2021
Client Champion 2019 Martindale-Hubbell (Platinum Rating)
Client Champion 2018 Martindale-Hubbell (Silver Rating)
Client Champion 2017 Martindale-Hubbell (Gold Rating)
Lead Counsel Rated by Thomson Reuters (Family Law, Business Law, Litigation, and, International Law)
American Bar Association (Committee Member)
Garland R. Walker American Inn of Court (Master)
Houston Bar Association (Member)
Texas Trial Lawyers Association (Member)
Texas Bar Family Law Section (Member)

Maddie Kessler

Paralegal

Maddie is a born-and-raised Texan who had returned home after a long stint in North Dakota, where she developed a deep appreciation for snow boots, white Christmas, and the kind of bone-chilling cold that builds character. While she’s happily reacclimated to the Texas weather, she still holds a soft spot for frosted windows and holiday lights.

With the loyal assistance of her two cats, Mikey and Ellie, as well her regal hamster Ham Boleyn (whose lineage may or may not include Tudor royalty), Maddie keeps this office running smoothly as its paralegal. Her dedication, precision, and efficient organization make her an indispensable part of the team.

Outside the office, Maddie is a true crime aficionado and a murder mystery novelist in the making.

"Our family is grateful for the preparation, patience, and hard work Ilionsky Law did to help my family win asylum. Thank you."

Aleh Balabin

"Words cannot express how thankful I am to have had E.Z. take on my case. From the beginning of my case all the way to the end, he answered all of my questions, handled all obstacles, and defended at all times. You can say he is a Professional Bulldog in court! E.Z. took care of me and my family and we will always be thankful for his help! We highly, highly recommend E.Z! All the way!"

Monique Perez

"I was referred to Ilionsky Law and could not be happier with the service. E.Z. took my case on in a less than an optimal time frame, yet made me feel like I was in good hands throughout. There was excellent communication/responsiveness and counsel was straightforward with everything explained thoroughly (and with a lot of patience!). E.Z. was kind and thoughtful and I felt at ease knowing I had him going into the situation. I wholeheartedly would recommend this establishment!"

Neda Haggag

"Words cannot express the gratitude I feel toward Ilionsky, it was a blessing to have found him. Since the minute I was on the phone with him, I had nothing but total support and guidance. Had it not been for Ilionsky, I probably would have lost my case and my sanity, to be honest. He was always reachable, communicative, smart, straightforward, confident, and extremely competent. He is a truly compassionate human being, who cared for my case as if I was part of his family. Putting my trust in him was the best decision I have made. I felt confident and secure with him on my side through the whole case, not once did I doubt him. I know it's you said you are just doing your job, but it's my life- and I feel you went above and beyond and I just want to express my appreciation."

Karla Venegas

"We had an asylum case based on religion from Egypt and Mr. Ilionsky did everything right. He was prepared, the papers were properly translated, and he even lined up an expert witness, so the judge understood everything properly. Thank you, forever from the Abdelmesseh family!"

B. Abdelmesseh