SUSAN BEST
AGE 38
FIRM Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani
LAW SCHOOL Northern Illinois University College of Law AREA(S) OF PRACTICE Employment law, education, litigation, counseling
2024 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
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S usan Best's colleagues say that she possesses a rare blend of authoritative confidence and warm collegiality. This combination means that Best ranks as a formidable and feared opponent, one who is passionate about achieving the best re- sults for her clients. She is also committed to her profession, devoting countless hours to mentoring and providing opportunities to new lawyers. "But don't mistake Susan's lovely personality for softness: She will out-prepare, out-wit, out-word and out-work any challenge or opponent," said Sarah Quinn, partner with the Chicago office of Husch Blackwell. "Susan is also a great friend and supporter of other lawyers. She makes space for others in all settings. She is generous with her time, her contacts and her mentorship. She is unapologetically authentic and her integrity is unmatched." “Susan has a remarkable ability to relate to her clients with compassion and empathy. She remains composed in the face of extraordinarily challenging and sometimes tragic fact patterns to guide her clients using thoughtful, creative solutions” said Elizabeth Barton, Managing Deputy General Counsel at Chicago Public Schools (“CPS”). Best's career includes a long list of victories for her clients. In the last five years, she has represented CPS in two high-profile federal jury cases, both of which resulted in full defense verdicts. In one case, the plaintiff alleged discrimination, inference and retaliation under the ADA and FMLA. The jury found in favor of
She will out-prepare, out-wit, out-word and out-work any challenge or opponent. ”
CPS on all counts. In the most recent trial, the plaintiff, a former high school principal, alleged that he was defamed when he was terminated amid several misconduct allegations that were high- ly publicized. The plaintiff asked the jury for $10 million. The jury found in favor of CPS on all counts and awarded zero damages. "Susan has acquired litigation experience beyond her years of practicing," said Alissa Griffin with the Coalition of Women's Initiatives in Law. In addition, Susan worked to start the Office of Student Protection & Title IX at CPS. This endeavor was historic as the District was at the forefront in creating an office designed to coordinate the response to all incidents of sexual misconduct under Title IX. “Susan never forgets the human element to her matters and works tirelessly to advocate for her clients,” said CPS’ General Counsel, Ruchi Verma. Douglas Henning, senior legal counsel with Siemens Mobility, praised not only Best's legal knowledge, but her work ethic. No one, he says, outworks Best.
40 Under Forty 2024
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CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN
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