Maher, Brannigan & Heywood P.C.’s dedicated paralegals, tax analysts, and support staff assist the attorneys to complete an in-depth analysis of the firm’s clients’ properties. Our friendly and knowledgeable staff are ready to assist our clients or make sure that the client’s needs are brought before one of our attorneys for a prompt response.
Our Staff
Michael Brannigan, Property Tax Analyst
Michael is a real estate tax consultant where he assists in all areas of real estate tax reduction and analysis.
With more than 25 years of experience in the real estate tax industry, Michael has extensive knowledge in matters of valuation, assessment and taxation for real property in Cook County and various collar counties. Assignments have included assessment and valuation for industrial buildings, commercial buildings, apartment buildings, vacant land and residential properties. In addition, Michael oversees the application and submission of real estate tax refund applications.
Michael graduated from Loras College in 1996, earning his B.A. in Speech Communications.
In his free time, Michael enjoys traveling with his family, sports and being a volunteer coach for track and field, baseball and basketball.
Kim Pakus, Administrative Assistant
Introducing Kim Pakus, who has been the office manager at our firm since 2015. With her keen organizational skills and unwavering dedication, Kim ensures the smooth day-to-day management of the office, keeping everything running efficiently.
Born and raised in the charming town of Buffalo Grove, IL, Kim’s roots run deep in Illinois. After graduating from Illinois State University and then moving to Orland Park in 1998, she embarked on her professional journey, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and a passion for efficiency.
Kim’s greatest pride and joy lie in her role as a mother. Raising two wonderful children in Orland Park has been her most rewarding accomplishment. Balancing the demands of parenthood with her career has taught Kim the value of patience, resilience, and time management.
When she’s not diligently managing the office, Kim enjoys spending quality time with her family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy gathering at home, a fun-filled day out with friends, or a relaxing retreat to her beloved lake house, Kim cherishes every moment spent in the company of those she holds dear.
Christoper Scumaci, Property Tax Analyst
Meet Christopher Scumaci, a property tax analyst since 2018. He received a bachelor’s degree in international relations/business from the University of Iowa in 2017 and an MBA from Lewis University in 2020, he’s armed with academic know-how and real-world experience.
Being an Orland Park native, Christopher has personal knowledge of the local neighborhoods. This familiarity allows Christopher to perceive nuances in properties, such as changes in development, infrastructure, and community dynamics, which significantly impact property assessments. All these aspects give him a better understanding of the surrounding areas and how they can best be utilized in determining property assessments.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Christopher enjoys spending quality time with his family and friends. Outside of this, Christopher also finds fulfillment in exploring the world, discovering new cultures, and having unforgettable experiences.
