Illinois Attorneys to Watch
2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
CONGRATULATIONS! Christopher H. Dietmann On Being Named to the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin 40 UNDER FORTY 2025 Illinois Attorneys to Watch
Tough. Trusted. Trial-Ready.
312.425.1900 • 161 N. Clark Street, Suite 2070 • Chicago, Illinois 60601 www.CavanaghLawGroup.com
C.Dietmann Ad.indd 1
8/20/25 4:46 AM
Much congratulates
for being named to Law Bulletin Media’s 40 Under Forty List of Illinois Attorneys in 2025 Sean Wagner
We’re Much. Attorneys who embrace passion and pragmatism in equal parts. Champion big ideas over big law and high-touch service over high cost. Care deeply about people’s quality of work and their quality of life. Remain laser-focused on taking you to the next level. We’re a law firm that gets your business.
muchlaw.com
CONGRATULATIONS TO Eirene N. Salvi on being named to Law Bulletin Media’s “40 Under Forty” List of Attorneys to Watch in Illinois
Eirene Nakamura Salvi esalvi@salvilaw.com 312.372.1227
salvilaw.com
Personal Injury
Medical Malpractice
Wrongful Death
n
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SMITH LaCIEN LLP is proud to congratulate ANDREW MASON On his selection to 40 Under Forty .
Andrew Mason is a founding associate lawyer at Smith LaCien LLP. He has earned major legal victories for his clients including a $11.5 million settlement in a case involving a grain elevator explosion, a $10 million settlement in a spinal cord injury case and a $7.375 million medical malpractice case. Supporting lawyers praised his dogged work ethic, an ability to successfully navigate complex legal issues, and an abundance of thoughtful, tactful interpersonal skills.
$3+ BILLION RECOVERED 150+ RESULTS THAT EXCEED $1 MILLION
SMITH LaCIEN LLP 70 W Madison Ste. 2250 Chicago, IL 60602 (312) 509-8900 | www.smithlacien.com | info@smithlacien.com
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
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OUR TEAM Peter Mierzwa President & Publisher pmierzwa@lawbulletinmedia.com Adam Hrejsa Director, 40 Under Forty ahrejsa@lawbulletinmedia.com Julie Leuck Design Manager jleuck@lawbulletinmedia.com John Sadowski Production Designer jsadowski@lawbulletinmedia.com Amanda Monto Marketing Manager amonto@lawbulletinmedia.com OTHER LEGAL PUBLICATIONS Chicago Daily Law Bulletin Chicago Lawyer Magazine Women In Law Lawyers Handbook Jury Verdict Reporter
For 26 years, the 40 Under Forty Committee at Law Bulletin Media has sifted through over piles of nomination forms to select 40 of the most talented young attorneys working in Illinois. This publication is the result of this work. Since the inaugural issue of 40 Under Forty in 2000 and despite ever changing legal profession the competition to be featured in these pages has remained intense. In 2025 more than 1000 nominations for attorneys throughout Illinois will be received. Choosing who to include was just as challenging as the previous 25 editions. What does it take to earn recognition as one of the best young lawyers in the state? Intelligence, passion, success in the office, a desire to help the community and, most importantly, a willingness to work hard at one of the country’s most important professions. Putting together this issue is no easy task. We solicited nominations from across the state. We then worked with our nominated attorneys in fine tuning their profiles. The results, we hope for both an entertaining and educational read. Success at any age is impressive. But to achieve it at an early age is even more of a feat. This is exactly what the 40 young attorneys featured in this publication have done.
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Copyright © 2025 by Law Bulletin Media. This is a product of the Legal Advertising Department. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form by any means, electronic or mechanical including photocopying, recording or by any information storage and retrieval system. Reproduction available from the publisher.
Adam Hrejsa Director, 40 Under Forty
40 Under Forty 2025
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Margaret Battersby Black 2011
Cari Silverman 2014
Michael Bonamarte 2010
Jaime Koziol Delaney 2016
Megan O’Connor 2022
Nicholas Emerson 2024
AJ Thut 2017
Daniel Goldfaden 2019
Kelly Sabo Gaden 2021
Honorees Table of Contents
16 John Ablan Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
17 Grant Bosnich Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman
18 Eunice Buhler G2
19 Manuela Cabal McAndrews, Held & Malloy
22 Jonathan Cavins Brennan Burtker LLC
23 Priscilla Centeno Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath
24 Huiyi Chen Jenner & Block LLP
25 Paul Connery Levin & Perconti
28 Neil Conrad Sidley Austin LLP
29 Kyle Cooper Tabet DiVito Rothstein LLC
32 Janet Coscino Ropes & Gray
33 Brian Crump Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
34 Lauren Dayton MoloLamken LLC
35 Christopher Dietmann Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
38 Gail Eisenberg Loftus & Eisenberg, Ltd.
39 Anthony Abou Ezzi Ezzi Law LLC
40 Jesse Footlik Peck Ritchey, LLC
41 Cole Garrett Illinois Workers’ Compensation Commission
44 Cody Hartman Nyhan, Bambrick, Kinzie & Lowry
45 David Kalimuthu Hall Prangle LLC
40 Under Forty 2025
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
46 Nicholas Laird Barack Ferrazzano Kirschbaum & Nagelberg LLP
47 Andrew Mason Smith LaCien LLP – Trial Lawyers
50 Julia Mazur Katten
51 Kate Nuehring Su Marshall, Gerstein & Borun LLP
52 Alexander Passo Latimer Levay Fyock
53 Sarah Raisch Romanucci & Blandin, LLC
56 Eirene Nakamura Salvi Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C.
57 Rachel Schaller Blank Rome LLP
58 Kate Schnake Hinshaw and Culbertson
59 Bill Souferis Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani
62 Jonathan Steele Beermann, LLP
63 Melissa Turk Firmage Chuhak & Tecson
64 LeDeidre Turner Commonwealth Edison Company
65 Melanie VanOverloop
68 Katie Vaughan Smith Blake Hill LLC
Rapoport Sims Perry & VanOverloop, P.C.
69 Sean Wagner Much Shelist, P.C.
70 Abe Wehbi Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
71 Brian Welch Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C.
74 Peter Zagotta Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP
75 Jamie Zider Berger Schatz
40 Under Forty 2025
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CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN
CONGRATULATES
JONATHAN D. STEELE PARTNER
on his selection as one of Chicago Daily Law Bulletin’s 2025
ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
Rapoport Sims Perry & VanOverloop P.C. Congratulates our Partner Melanie VanOverloop Being named 2025 40 Under Forty
Small firm. Big results. Over $1 billion recovered
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
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Attorneys at Law TAYLOR SPESIA
Blank Rome LLP proudly congratulates Rachel L. Schaller on her selection for Chicago Lawyer’s 40 Under Forty Award . We applaud her commitment to the highest standards of achievement and are honored to call her our colleague.
Rachel L. Schaller Partner, Business Litigation
Blank Rome is an Am Law 100 firm with 16 offices and more than 750 attorneys and principals who provide a full range of legal and advocacy services to clients operating in the United States and around the world.
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
JOHN ABLAN
AGE 39
FIRM Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP
LAW SCHOOL Vanderbilt University Law School
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Capital markets, corporate and financial services
John takes every issue seriously, communicates effectively, and offers first-rate service.
”
J ohn Ablan has extensive experience advising both issuers and financial institutions in a broad range of domestic and cross-border capital markets transactions, including: invest- ment grade and high yield debt offerings; initial public offerings and follow-on equity offerings; de-SPAC transactions; preferred equity offerings; and liability management transactions. Ablan also advises companies and other market participants on the securities law aspects to mergers and acquisitions and restruc- turing matters. In addition, Ablan regularly provides counsel to public companies on their securities law compliance obligations, stock exchange listing requirements, corporate governance and other matters. Ablan has that rare but necessary skill that all top corporate and capital markets attorneys possess: the ability to quickly pro- cess the complex issues of a deal while simultaneously under- standing the big picture. And as his peers say, Ablan is fiercely dedicated to his clients. "John takes every issue seriously, communicates effectively and offers first-rate service," said one fellow attorney. During his career, Ablan has counseled some of the largest companies across the globe on complex capital markets trans- actions. A recent example? Ablan led the Willkie capital markets team in connection with Xerox's $800 million senior secured notes, offering to refinance existing debt to help finance the ac- quisition of Lexmark International II, LLC.
This transaction involved both first-lien and second-lien notes, each of which had to fit into Xerox's already complex capital structure that already included a first-lien term loan, asset-backed revolving credit facility and other secured indebt- edness. Despite these complexities, Ablan and his team helped Xerox smoothly close this deal. Ablan also co-led a team advising the underwriters in the registered public offering of $1 billion of senior notes by The Dow Chemical Company. He served, too, as a key member of the team that advised Saks Global on its Rule 14A/Regulation S senior secured notes offering for an aggregate principal amount of $2.2 billion as financing for the acquisition of Nieman Marcus in 2024 for a total enterprise value of $2.7 billion. Earlier in his career, Ablan advised Morgan Stanley on a $1.325 billion aggregate principal amount taxable high-yield notes offering for Brightline Trains Florida as part of a series of ground-breaking transactions that provided financing to sup- port the design, development and construction of high-speed- rail projects for Brightline. "Early in his career, John has already earned the status as a go-to advisor for some of the world's largest and most suc- cessful companies and organizations," said one nominator. "He has proven himself as an invaluable asset in advising clients on a broad spectrum of domestic and cross-border capital markets transactions."
40 Under Forty 2025
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
GRANT BOSNICH
AGE 30
FIRM Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman, LLC
LAW SCHOOL Loyola University School of Law
and his results show that. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Personal injury
His firm is lucky to have him,
”
G rant A. Bosnich is a rare talent in personal injury – a young attorney whose discipline and skill far exceed his years, and who is routinely entrusted with significant, complex cases. Some of Bosnich's 2024 and 2025 results include a $27.7 mil- lion settlement on behalf of six plaintiffs who were injured or killed by an explosion at a chemical manufacturing plant in Il- linois, and a jury verdict of $13.8 million in a trucking case on behalf of two minor children who lost their father in the colli- sion. In another case, Bosnich, as first chair, secured a $7 million settlement in a wrongful death negligent security case in which a minor was shot and killed in the Cabrini Green Row Houses in Chicago. He also led an effort resulting in a $4 million dol- lar settlement on behalf of the family of a man in his 20’s who was killed at work when a product exploded on the first day it was used. "Grant is an exceptional personal injury attorney," said Chi- cago attorney Jill Webb. "It takes a special person to handle the rigors of preparation for depositions and trial and the challeng- es of dealing with difficult opposing counsel, as well as having a good presence in the courtroom before judges and juries."
Outside the courtroom, Bosnich enjoys giving back to his community. He believes that a well-balanced life is part and par- cel to positive performance for his clients, and that community service offers important lessons in empathy which, according to him, is an under-recognized skill of a good trial lawyer. Bosnich volunteers as the secretary of the Commercial Park Advisory Council in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood, as President of St. Bede Academy Alumni Association in Peru, Illinois, and Direc- tor of the DePue Men’s Club in his hometown, DePue, Illinois. He also serves as an adjunct faculty at his alma mater, Loyola University Chicago School of Law, teaching professional identity formation to first year law students each fall. "I've worked on several cases adverse to Grant and he has handled himself above and beyond his years of experience," said Joe Carini, president of Chicago's Johnson & Bell. "He has shown exceptional skills handling complex issues; exceptional demeanor dealing with the court, counsel and witnesses; and compassion for his clients. His firm is lucky to have him, and his results show that."
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
EUNICE BUHLER
AGE 35
FIRM G 2
LAW SCHOOL Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
legal community. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Technology law
She is a true leader in the
”
A t just 35, Eunice Buhler has emerged a leading figure in Chicago’s legal and technology sectors. When G2—the world’s pre-eminent software-review marketplace (founded and headquartered in Chicago)—sought its first general counsel, it turned to Buhler, a proven dealmaker from the mergers-and-ac- quisitions ranks of Kirkland & Ellis and a Northwestern Pritzker School of Law and two-time Stanford University alumna. Today she leads G2’s legal operations with the rare blend of strategic foresight and pragmatic judgment that exemplifies in-house ex- cellence in the tech sector. Thomas Demetrio of Corboy & Demetrio, P.C. observes that Buhler’s “extraordinary aptitude for combining precise legal analysis with broader business strategy” has been instrumental in her accomplished career. Demetrio notes that Buhler’s “com- mitted to the ethical practice of law, and her ability to integrate her sharp legal expertise with business strategy” has allowed her to be an impactful leader at G2 and beyond. Inside G2, a respected Chicago tech “start-up” that reached “unicorn” status in 2021, Buhler’s impact has been immediate and culture-shaping. She has recruited and mentored a cad- re of top legal talent, instituted rigorous yet business-friendly compliance protocols, and spearheaded company-wide dis- cussions on responsible artificial-intelligence deployment— initiatives that have sharpened G2’s competitive edge while
cementing its reputation for ethical innovation. Her peers cite an integrity that is every bit as meaningful as her intellect. “Eunice commands trust due to the high quality of her work,” says Maria Fay Karras of Kirkland & Ellis. Buhler is also fair: Tackling legal issues with a sense of integrity that all those with whom she deals appreciate. "She is able to comprehend the human element in law and commercial engagements," Kar- ras said, and adds, "She follows through in building agreements. She is a true leader in the legal community." Beyond the boardroom, Buhler’s dedication to service is equally distinguished. Through the PanHellenic Scholarship Foundation, she mentors first-generation college students, ex- emplifying the Greek ideal of philotimo: giving without expec- tation. She is also an active champion of the American Cancer Society, The Hellenic Initiative, and founded Culture for Youth, a nonprofit focused on expanding cultural access for under- served communities. "While her intellectual brilliance is unmatched, it is her desire to mentor and give back that makes her so deserving of this recognition," Demetrio said. Lisa Carroll of FisherBroyles captures Buhler’s multifaceted achievements well: "She has exhibited as much leadership acu- men as legal capability in her approach to her role, generating an impact that extends beyond pure legal insight to industry savvy."
40 Under Forty 2025
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
MANUELA CABAL
AGE 33
FIRM McAndrews, Held & Malloy
LAW SCHOOL Valparaiso University School of Law
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Intellectual property
She brings a level of strategic insight and leadership you would expect from someone far more senior.
”
M anuela Cabal has built a reputation as a patent litigator whose depth of experience and leadership far exceeds her years. A Partner at McAndrews, Held & Malloy, Cabal has played pivotal roles in complex, high-stakes intellectual property disputes. Most notably, Cabal was a key member of the team repre- senting a Fortune 500 medical device company in one of the largest and most complex global patent litigations in recent history, encompassing more than 70 disputes across U.S. and international forums and over 50 patents. Manuela’s responsi- bilities included team and case management, and she actively contributed to all phases of the litigation—including IPRs and trial—helping secure critical victories in federal court and be- fore the Patent Trial and Appeal Board. Her work has drawn praise from clients at the highest levels. “Manuela has exceptional case management skills and deep litigation experience compared to other attorneys at similar seniority,” said Diana Luo, Divisional Vice President and Asso- ciate General Counsel at Abbott. “She brings a level of strategic insight and leadership you would expect from someone far more senior.” Cabal’s ability to balance technical depth with strategic fore- sight also makes her a valued partner to clients and colleagues. They note her innate ability to see the forest for the trees and think creatively to achieve client goals. Known also for her
diligence and attention to detail, she is often asked to take on leadership responsibilities, coordinating complex litigation strat- egies and cross-functional collaboration with in-house legal and technical teams. Manuela’s McAndrews colleagues describe her as an attor- ney whose enthusiasm and collaborative spirit energizes teams and strengthens the firm’s culture. She has served in leadership roles on the firm’s Diversity, Recruiting, and Professional Devel- opment committees, reflecting her commitment to fostering inclusion and mentorship. Her contributions extend outside the firm. Manuela has held committee leadership roles with the Coalition of Women’s Ini- tiatives in Law (Chicago), helping foster inclusion and network- ing between women attorneys. Manuela has also shown a deep commitment to pro bono service, delivering life-changing victo- ries for clients. Drew Curle, supervisory attorney with the Great- er Chicago Legal Clinic, said that Cabal’s exceptional work with the clinic’s Criminal Records Program provided clients a second chance at employment, housing, and stability. For almost ten years, Manuela has also volunteered with the National Immigrant Justice Center (Chicago), representing a family of four in a complex asylum case. The combination of legal skill, strategic vision, and social im- pact makes Cabal stand out as one of the leading young voices in intellectual property law today.
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From all of us at Marshall Gerstein, Congratulations to Kate Nuehring Su! Law Bulletin ’s 2025 “40 Illinois Attorneys Under Forty to Watch” Honoree, Partner, and a truly talented individual. We hold you in the highest regard, and your clients do too: “Clients need practicality, common sense, creativity, and thoughtfulness. They want someone who listens and understands. This is where Kate’s superpower enters.” - Client quote
CONGRATULATES GRANT A. BOSNICH
ON BEING SELECTED TO 40 UNDER FORTY
Congrats to Grant on joining the other 40 Under 40 Alumni from Taxman, Pollock, Murray & Bekkerman
Gerald Bekkerman
Colleen Mixan
Jim Lynch
Julie Pustilnik
Jonathan Treshansky
Mac Mahony
2018
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
Over $750 million recovered for our clients since opening in 2017 Chicago’s Fastest Growing Plaintiffs Personal Injury Firm WRONGFUL DEATH/MEDICAL MALPRACTICE/NURSING HOME NEGLECT/ TRANSPORTATION/PREMISES LIABILITY/WORKERS COMP
TPMBLEGAL.COM
2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
JONATHAN CAVINS
AGE 39
FIRM Brennan Burtker LLC
LAW SCHOOL DePaul University College of Law
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Professional liability, medical malpractice defense
He is fearless and a tireless advocate for his clients, and does whatever it takes to provide exceptional legal work.
”
H is fellow attorneys describe Jonathan Cavins as a highly motivated, smart and driven attorney, one who is mature beyond his years. He also boasts a keen legal mind, a strong courtroom presence and a fierce commitment to providing the best representation to his clients. This combination of traits explains how Cavins has earned so many successful results for his clients, and why he is considered a young star in Chicago's professional liability and medical mal- practice defense field. "He is fearless and a tireless advocate for his clients, and does whatever it takes to provide exceptional legal work," said Cath- erine Garvey, associate general counsel with the University of Chicago Medical Center. "He is well respected by judges, medi- ators, his clients and peers in the legal community, and is most certainly a rising star." Garvey said that Cavins works early, late and often, and is me- ticulous when it comes to communication, meeting deadlines and attention to detail. During his still-young career, Cavins has successfully defend- ed his clients in several high-exposure medical malpractice
trials. His work on the defense team on a 2020 trial earned him the 2023 Jury Verdict Reporter Defense Trial Lawyer Excellence Award. In one of Cavins' highest-profile cases, he worked on the de- fense team for the University of Chicago Medical Center in a case involving the death of a 2-month-old boy who died a day after being discharged from the center's emergency room with cold and flu symptoms. A Cook County jury, thanks in part to Cavins' work, found that the hospital was not liable for the in- fant's death. The complaint alleged that the University of Chicago Medi- cal Center and its doctor failed to order the correct tests, lab work and medication and failed to recognize the seriousness of the infant's illness. Cavins and the defense team argued that the medical center was not liable for the death as autopsy results found that the child died under "unclear circumstances." The plaintiffs sought $15 million in damages. Outside the courtroom, Cavins is a frequent lecturer about issues related to medical malpractice in both hospital settings and for professional organizations.
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
PRISCILLA CENTENO
AGE 32
FIRM Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath
LAW SCHOOL Depaul University College of Law
beyond her years. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Municipal, township, school, labor and election law
Priscilla is certainly a lawyer
”
I t's taken Priscilla Centeno just four years to become the lead attorney representing multiple governmental entities in Illi- nois, serving as the village attorney for Park Forest, township at- torney for Rich Township and board attorney for Lyons School District 103. Holding these key positions is evidence that Cen- teno has earned the respect and trust of government officials. It's also proof that Centeno understands the nuances of mu- nicipal law and is a trusted advocate of her municipal clients. Centeno also possesses a deep understanding of Illinois elec- tion law, including handling matters before electoral boards and in the circuit and appeal courts. Arlene Al-Amin, clerk of Rich Township, has worked closely with Centeno on a range of legal matters. She says that Centeno routinely assists the township with the most complex legal is- sues, including matters related to the Open Meetings Act, Free- dom of Information Act, personnel questions and procedural guidance for public meetings. "Priscilla demonstrates exceptional wisdom, profession- alism and deep knowledge of township law," Al-Amin said. "Her expertise extends across municipal and labor law, making
her an invaluable resource to my office." Calvin Jordan, supervisor of Rich Township, said that Centeno has represented the township in forming agreements with other municipalities. And when it's time to defend the township, Cen- teno acts as a fierce advocate for the government body. "She takes an aggressive posture in defending the township and her efforts have saved precious dollars that have been used for services benefiting our citizens," Jordan said. "Her tactical defense work coupled with her knowledge of township and mu- nicipal law provided expert legal representation." Steven Laduzinsky, founder and owner of Laduzinsky & Asso- ciates, has worked with Centeno on complicated election cases that resulted in litigation before electoral boards. Centeno has also assisted Laduzinsky in handling administrative hearings for a local high school district. "Priscilla is certainly a lawyer beyond her years," Laduzinsky said. "Having been a teacher, being bilingual and having extraor- dinary skills, she has quickly become a leader in the election law field. She is already viewed as an outstanding litigator and au- thority in the Election Bar."
40 Under Forty 2025
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
HUIYI CHEN
AGE 36
FIRM Jenner & Block LLP
LAW SCHOOL University of Chicago Law School
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Complex commercial litigation, insurance coverage litigation
Huiyi's achievements reflect a lawyer who possesses strong analytical reasoning and advocacy skills.
”
H uiyi Chen consistently delivers favorable results for clients facing high-stakes legal challenges in matters involving complex commercial litigation. During her career, Chen has es- tablished herself as a key member of litigation and trial teams handling some of the most intricate and consequential com- mercial disputes. A good example? Chen during a three-week jury trial served on a team representing a policyholder seeking more than $100 million in cyber insurance coverage against an insurer. Thanks in large part to Chen's work, the client earned a settlement that protected the client's financial interests while also helping to es- tablish important precedent in the rapidly developing field of cyber insurance litigation. Chen is part of a team now defending one of the coun- try's largest broadcast station owners in an ongoing antitrust class-action lawsuit. Those familiar with the case, say that Chen has developed sophisticated legal strategies that protect her cli- ent's business interests while navigating the complex regulatory landscape. Equally impressive? Chen's role in representing the owners of a large pumped storage power plant seeking more than $ 800 million in damages and prejudgment interest from its contrac- tor. This case shows Chen's ability to understand specialized
technical subjects while maintaining her focus on the core legal and factual issues of a case. Chen will be part of a trial team in the upcoming jury trial later this year. Chen also successfully represented a national railroad com- pany in an indemnification lawsuit filed by a former employee. Chen and colleagues secured an early dismissal with minimal discovery after an evidentiary hearing. "Huiyi's achievements reflect a lawyer who possesses strong analytical reasoning and advocacy skills," said Hannah Reed with Jenner & Block. "She has consistently earned the trust of clients and colleagues by delivering superior results across complex matters." Phillip Mohr, deputy director with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, said that Chen combines analytical precision with ex- ceptional advocacy skills. That, Mohr said, is a winning combi- nation. Mohr said that Chen's peers say that this young attorney is confident without being overconfident and careful while still being persuasive. "Her work on cutting-edge issues in cyber insurance, antitrust law and complex commercial contracts has both served her cli- ents well and contributed to the development of legal prece- dent," Mohr said.
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
PAUL CONNERY
AGE 37
FIRM Levin & Perconti
LAW SCHOOL Loyola University School of Law
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Plaintiff personal injury
He has a keen sense of analyzing a case and clearly defining the legal and factual issues in complex cases.
”
P aul Connery has earned several impressive results for his clients, results that have helped him craft a reputation as a top plaintiff personal injury specialist. An example? Connery earned a $2 million settlement against a hospital and rehabilitation center for failing to prevent the development and deterioration of sacral pressure injuries to a quadriplegic patient. Connery also helped secure a settlement of $700,000 on be- half of a nursing home resident who developed pressure injuries that were later healed by her daughters who provided her with home care. He earned another $700,000 settlement this time for a nursing home resident who suffered a fall from her wheel- chair, causing intracranial bleeding that became a contributing cause to her eventual death. In addition, Connery helped secure a $500,000 settlement for a client who slipped on black ice in a suburban Chicago park- ing lot, a slip that resulted in a trimalleolar fracture and left ankle dislocation that required surgery. "Paul has resolved many cases for his clients where I felt he easily exceeded what the case was worth," said Daniel Broderick,
partner with Morrissey Legal Group. "Paul is tireless in his pur- suit of justice. We worked on a case together in which Paul took the lead with all discovery. He got the client more than I ever thought he could." Michael Shanahan, partner with Gallagher Law Offices, worked closely with Connery on a complex medical malpractice case in a difficult venue. Shanahan said that Connery's handling of the case led to a successful settlement for the client. "Paul is known for his pragmatism and reasoning," Shanahan said. "He has a keen sense of analyzing a case and clearly defining the legal and factual issues in complex cases." Others praise Connery for the quality of his written work. This isn't surprising: Connery has written more than 25 appellate briefs and represented the state of Illinois in front of the First District Appellate Court. "This is a rare quality in a trial lawyer," said Joseph Murphy, partner with Clifford Law Offices. "Paul has a great courtroom presence but can also write and research with the very best of lawyers."
40 Under Forty 2025
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CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN
Ropes & Gray congratulates Janet Coscino Partner, Private Equity and all of this year’s 40 Under Forty honorees.
Congratulations to our Partner and Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy practice group Vice Chair Brian P. Welch on his selection among 40 Illinois Attorneys Under Forty to Watch in 2025
330 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2100 | Chicago, IL 60611 | burkelaw.com
2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
NEIL CONRAD
AGE 39
FIRM Sidley Austin LLP
LAW SCHOOL University of Chicago Law School
N eil H. Conrad has built a reputation as one of Chicago’s most versatile and client-focused litigators. A partner at Sidley Austin LLP, Conrad stands out for his ability to guide matters seamlessly from early strategy through trial and appeal. Conrad’s practice spans commercial litigation, securities and shareholder disputes, and appellate law, where his strategic acu- men and steady presence have delivered significant results. Eric Dodson Greenberg, General Counsel of Cox Media Group, recalls working with Conrad on a major matter threat- ening the viability of the business. With Conrad’s creativity and tenacity, the company turned a defensive position into strate- gic leverage. “Neil mastered the media ecosystem, its peculiar jargon, regulatory nuances, legacy contract conventions, and business realities, then distilled those into coherent, persuasive and enforceable claims,” Greenberg said. The strategy paid off: CMG was able to protect its interests, underscoring the power of Conrad’s approach. Walter Carlson, CEO of Telephone and Data Systems, worked with Conrad on multi-billion-dollar securities litigation and shareholder suits. Carlson noted that Conrad’s written and oral advocacy, combined with his unfaltering client service, led to extraordinary results—including a rare complete summary judgment victory in a sprawling federal securities class action that was affirmed on appeal. “Neil is the consummate team player,” Carlson said. “He knows how to work effectively with Neil's performance on this matter stood out as one of the finest of any associate I ever observed while at Sidley. “ ”
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Commercial litigation and disputes, securities and shareholder litigation, Supreme Court appellate law
others to accomplish the objective. And most importantly, he is committed to the client’s success.” Clients and colleagues alike highlight Conrad’s ability to gen- erate innovative strategies while keeping sight of business re- alities. Constantine Trela, a longtime appellate partner, empha- sized Conrad’s judgment even early in his career: “Neil inevitably came back with ideas and suggestions that offered creative ways of advancing the client’s interests that hadn’t occurred to others on the team.” Trela credits Conrad’s briefs with helping reverse a $30 million judgment against one client, and with sav- ing another hundreds of millions in a high-stakes trade secret appeal for another client. Another colleague described Conrad’s performance in a multi-year arbitration as “one of the finest of any associate I ever observed.” From complex discovery through a week-long trial, Conrad’s calm advocacy and sharp judgment earned praise not just from clients but also from opposing counsel. His career reflects the qualities that clients value most in their outside counsel: intelligence and creativity, balanced by judgment and humility; fierce advocacy, tempered by civility and collaboration; and, above all, an unwavering focus on advancing client interests. In the words of one colleague, he is “a unicorn: a young partner who provides the judgment and strategic sense of a seasoned counselor.”
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
KYLE COOPER
AGE 37
FIRM Tabet DiVito Rothstein LLC
LAW SCHOOL Boston University School of Law
to his clients. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Business litigation
He is fiercely devoted
”
A partner at Tabet DiVito Rothstein LLC, Kyle Cooper has built a reputation as a trusted advisor and skilled business litigator. "Kyle is widely regarded for his ability to quickly grasp com- plex issues and navigate interpersonal dynamics," said one nom- inator, and he is “fiercely devoted to his clients,” said another. How much respect has Cooper earned during the early stage of his career? In 2023, he became the youngest person ever to serve as president of the Chicago Police Board, the civilian oversight body responsible for reviewing and deciding the most serious cases of alleged police misconduct, a role that comes with enormous responsibility and requires frequent interaction with the Mayor’s Office, the Superintendent of Police, and the general public. “Kyle Cooper exemplifies the kind of lawyer we hope every young attorney will become, sharp, ethical, effective and genu- inely committed to justice,” said Hon. Ann Claire Williams (Ret.), former Judge of the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and now of counsel in the Chicago office of Jones Day. Cooper’s leadership and judgment in high-profile civic mat- ters are matched by his proven capabilities in both the court- room and the boardroom, where he combines deep litigation expertise with strategic business insight. Widely regarded for handling the most complex business disputes, he recently
secured a trial victory in a breach-of-guaranty case and won summary judgment in a breach-of-contract action. Cooper also served as local counsel for McKesson Corpo- ration, where he helped secure the dismissal of more than 40 cases throughout Illinois relating to opioid supply practices, a result that helped shape the statewide litigation landscape on public nuisance claims. In addition to his litigation work, Cooper serves as outside general counsel to several businesses. In this role, he provides strategic legal and business advice on a wide range of corporate, regulatory and litigation matters. Cooper’s commitment to the legal community and the pub- lic extends well beyond client work. He is a frequent speaker and author on litigation topics, has traveled to Kenya to provide pro bono assistance as part of a Lawyers Without Borders pro- gram, and supports the Primo Center, a nonprofit that provides housing, health care, and other services to unhoused families in Chicago. In every facet of his career, Cooper has demonstrated a rare blend of intellect, integrity, and dedication. His record of achievement at such an early stage of his career suggests that his influence, both in the legal profession and in the broader Chicago community, will only continue to grow.
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GORDON REES SCULLY MANSUKHANI PROUDLY CONGRATULATES on being honored among the 2025 40 Under Forty Illinois Attorneys to Watch Bill Souferis
Bill Souferis concentrates his practice on professional liability defense, employment law, and healthcare-related matters, with a focus on complex litigation. He represents individual professionals as well as local and national organizations, delivering strategic and comprehensive defense strategies across a wide range of claims. With extensive litigation experience, including numerous trials, Bill manages cases from early investigation and risk assessment, through trial and verdict. His clients value his practical insight, steady judgment, and deep understanding of the complicated and often burdensome litigation process.
As the only full-service law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, GRSM delivers maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. We provide comprehensive litigation and business transactions services to public and private companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations.
TOP 15 Largest Law Firms by U.S. Headcount Law360
TOP 75 Largest Law Firms by Global Headcount American Lawyer
1600 + Attorneys across the nation with experience in more than 90 practice areas
85 + Offices and continuing to grow
Bill Souferis bsouferis@grsm.com 312.796.2393 One North Wacker, Suite 1600 Chicago, IL 60606
grsm.com
2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
JANET COSCINO
AGE 38
FIRM Ropes & Gray
LAW SCHOOL Loyola University Chicago School of Law
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Private equity
Janet is solution-oriented and always made us feel like she had thought through every angle.
”
T he world of private equity investments can often be a cha- otic one. But Janet Coscino, a private equity partner with Ropes & Gray, provides her clients with confident, strategic and wise counsel no matter how complicated a transaction is. An example is Coscino's work advising Chicago-based private investment firm The Vistria Group in its investment in Ora Clin- ical. Max Vielmetti, principal with The Vistria Group, said that Coscino provided the steadying influence and savvy legal advice that the firm needed to navigate the complex transaction. "Janet was always available to address our concerns and made sure we understood every step of the transaction," Viel- metti said. "Janet is solution-oriented and always made us feel like she had thought through every angle, presenting counsel in a timely and concise manner." In another example of Coscino's expert guidance, she led a team representing Xerox Holdings Corporation in its agreement to acquire Lexmark International, a creator of cloud-enabled imaging and Internet-of-Things technologies. This $1.5 billion cross-border deal combined two leading companies in the print industry and was extremely complex. Coscino, though, made sure the deal proceeded smoothly.
Nicole Martinez, senior managing associate with Sidley Austin LLP, worked with Coscino to represent Astellas Pharma Inc. in its acquisition of iota Biosciences, another significant and com- plex deal. "Janet acted as a true leader, guiding the associates on the team and keeping the deal on track," Martinez said. Guiding this transaction was no simple task. The deal involved intricate negotiations and the integration of innovative technol- ogy for ultra-small implantable medical devices. "Leading this transaction to a successful resolution is just one of the many examples demonstrating that Janet has all the hall- marks of a leading lawyer," Martinez said. Coscino drafted the merger agreement, negotiated the terms of a complex earn-out and supervised and reviewed the work of junior associates. Coscino is also dedicated to her community. She is actively involved with Compass Pro Bono, an organization that connects local nonprofits with business professionals to foster equitable and resilient communities. She also offers pro bono services through the Goldman Sachs small business program, providing small business owners with key legal advice.
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
BRIAN CRUMP
AGE 39
FIRM Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
LAW SCHOOL Chicago-Kent College of Law
over roadblocks. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Venture, startup, and corporate law
Brian prioritizes solutions
”
W hat makes Brian Crump such a successful lawyer? His peers point to his deep knowledge of the law, strate- gic thinking and unwavering commitment to his clients. Add his ability to forge winning results for these same clients, and it's clear why Crump is a rising star in the areas of venture and corporate law. "Brian prioritizes solutions over roadblocks, aligning legal strategies with business objectives to drive meaningful results," said David Brown, principal with the Chicago office of Much Shelist. "From the outset of his career, he distinguished himself with his ability to earn client trust." Crump is also a visionary, a lawyer unafraid to adapt and work in new fields. An example? Crump became an expert in cannabis law when that field was in its infancy in Illinois. Brown said that Crump played a key role in a complex cannabis-related transac- tion that resulted in a $1 billion rollup and exit, the largest in the industry at that time. Crump has since applied his legal knowledge to represent cli- ents in other emerging industries such as crypto and the use of psychedelics for medical purposes. "While many attorneys hesitate to engage with unchart- ed legal territory, Brian embraces the challenge, continuously
seeking innovative ways to help clients succeed where others see obstacles," Brown said. Katherine Danial, counsel at the Washington, D.C. office of Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP, said that Crump consis- tently delivers results that exceed the expectations of his clients. When clients hire Crump, they know that they are not only gaining a sharp legal mind but also a strategic partner, Danial said. "He approaches complex, high-stakes matters with a rare combination of poise, determination and creativity," Danial said. "His counsel is clear, practical and impactful." Emily Dosch, claims manager with RLI Insurance Company, said that Crump has showcased an ability to handle complex, high-stakes transactions. Dosch said that Crump excels in ex- plaining complex legal concepts in a way that is clear to his clients, regardless of their backgrounds. Crump also relies on "outside-the-box" thinking, making him an invaluable asset to his clients. "Brian is down-to-earth and genuinely cares about the people he works with," Dosch said. "He has a natural ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life."
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
LAUREN DAYTON
AGE 36
FIRM MoloLamken LLP
LAW SCHOOL University of Michigan Law School
“
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Business torts and antitrust
Lauren has an exceptional ability to understand and implement her clients' goals, not just spot legal issues.
”
L auren Dayton's peers praise her skills and ability to focus on what matters most to her clients. They also point to her cre- ativity and solution-oriented approach to resolving cases when explaining why this young attorney has become a rising star in business disputes. Just ask Josh Weisser, managing director at Contrarian Capital Management. He's worked closely with Dayton as she has represented Contrarian in high-stakes litigation related to sovereign debt. Weisser says that Dayton has been a key mem- ber of the company's legal team from the drafting of the com- plaint in 2019 through a judgment enforcement proceeding in Delaware to sell the debtor/sovereign's multi-billion-dollar U.S. company asset. "Lauren is a great counselor," Weisser said. "In a field where lawyers often think they know what the client wants better than the client does, Lauren has an exceptional ability to understand and implement her clients' goals, not just spot legal issues." Weisser said that Dayton's writing is top-notch, and that she effortlessly adjusts her style to fit her audience. "In a litigation with lots of big names and big egos, Lauren gets
things done," Weisser said. "She is good at getting other people on her side, even if they're not aligned. That's a huge asset." Erica Weisgerber, a partner at Debevoise, praised Dayton’s skills and judgment. Dayton played a crucial role on the team that represented her client’s subsidiary in a complex litiga- tion. Weisgerber noted Dayton’s “impressive facility with par- ticularly nuanced issues” around damages calculations.” She also praised Dayton’s ability to focus on the most important issues. “Because she prioritized the things that were truly mis- sion-critical, we trusted her advice when she said something was or should be top priority. That judgment can make all the difference.” Another nominator worked Dayton on what he says is one of the most complex commercial cases now pending in the United States. The case involved three different classes on behalf of millions of plaintiffs. Dayton has provided expert representa- tion, the nominator said. "Ms. Dayton exhibited exceptional skills," the nominator said. "I was particularly impressed with her legal insight and judgment and ability to play leadership roles."
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2025 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
CHRISTOPHER DIETMANN
AGE 36
FIRM Cavanagh Sorich Law Group
LAW SCHOOL Quinnipiac University School of Law
challenge. “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Plaintiff personal injury
He is always ready for the
”
C hristopher Dietmann is no stranger to earning big verdicts for his clients. His long record of success makes him one of the top rising stars in the plaintiff personal injury field. An example? Alongside his partners Tim Cavanagh and Mi- chael Sorich, Dietmann represented a man who was injured at a railroad yard in Chicago when the rear wheels of a crane ran over his pelvis area. This resulted in serious injuries and required the amputation of his left leg and the removal of a portion of the man's pelvis along with his spleen, bladder and rectum. Thanks in part to Dietmann's legal skills, the firm obtained a record $50 million settlement for the injured client. Dietmann was also part of a team that obtained a settlement of $11.1 million in a product liability case for a 25-year-old man who suffered the loss of the fingers on his left hand because of an unguarded pinch point. These results don't surprise Robert Bingle, attorney with Chicago's Wise Law Trial Lawyers. He points to a disputed liabil- ity car crash case in which the defense attempted to attribute the plaintiff's injuries to a prior condition. Despite the challenge,
Dietmann secured a verdict exceeding 10 times the claimed eco- nomic damages. "Chris exemplifies all the legal and personal attributes that the lawyers who have received this recognition have exhibited," Bingle said. "He is an effective, accomplished civil attorney and a caring and wonderful person." In another noteworthy case, Dietmann helped secure a $1.9 million settlement for a teen who was inadvertently shot by a Des Plaines police officer in a Chicago music school while the officer was pursuing a bank robber. He also was part of the team that secured a $3.25 million settlement in Springfield in a wrong- ful death premises liability case. Adam Kreuzer, an attorney with Esp Kreuzer Cores LLP, said that Dietmann regularly takes on the toughest depositions in a case, a testament to the respect that his fellow attorneys have for his legal talent. "Christopher is an exceptional attorney," Kreuzer said. "He is always ready for the challenge."
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