Why Dan Webb Isn’t Representing Ill. Gov: Alleged Unpaid $500K Legal Tab

As a stunning federal corruption case was unveiled this week against Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, many wondered why he is being represented by a well-regarded Chicago attorney rather than a nationally known big-name white-collar criminal defense lawyer such as, say, Winston & Strawn's Dan Webb.

The answer to that question may now be clear: According to the Wall Street Journal, Winston & Strawn stopped representing Blagojevich after he failed to pay some $500,000 in legal fees.

"Earlier this year, Mr. Blagojevich, strapped for cash and burdened by a years-long federal investigation into his administration, stopped paying a portion of the millions of dollars in legal fees owed to the law firm Winston & Strawn," the newspaper writes, citing as sources unnamed "people familiar with the matter."

Both the governor and his counsel declined to comment, the article states.

Earlier ABAJournal.com coverage:

Little-Known Chicago Lawyer Accompanies Ill. Gov. to Court

More Drama Over Ill. Gov’s Alleged Attempt to Barter Obama’s Senate Seat

Will Rezko or Tapes Prove More Damaging in Case Against Ill. Gov?