Illinois Attorneys to Watch
2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
DEANDRE
TILLMAN 40 under
This well-deserved recognition reflects DeAndre’s dedication, integrity, and commitment to serving our clients and community. We are incredibly proud to celebrate this achievement and all that DeAndre brings to the firm.
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for being named to Law Bulletin Media’s 40 Under Forty List of Illinois Attorneys in 2026 Sterling Williams
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.
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Congratulations to Lauren Rankins for being named a 40 Under Forty honoree by Law Bulletin Media.
Lauren Rankins Partner Construction/Litigation
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GORDON REES SCULLY MANSUKHANI PROUDLY CONGRATULATES on being honored among the 2026 40 Under Forty Illinois Attorneys to Watch Brian Roth
Brian Roth represents companies in high-stakes litigation in Illinois and across the country. Clients turn to Brian when the issues are complex, the consequences are substantial, and they need a lawyer who will take ownership of the problem and see it through. He brings a
practical, results-oriented approach to significant disputes, combining deep substantive experience with sound judgment, responsiveness, and a relentless focus on achieving results.
As the only full-service law firm with offices and attorneys in all 50 states, Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani delivers maximum value to our clients by combining the resources of a national firm with the local knowledge of a regional firm. With more than 2,000 lawyers nationwide, we provide comprehensive litigation and business transactions services to public and private companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 100 corporations. TOP 10 Largest Law Firms by U.S. Headcount Law360 TOP 70 Largest Law Firms by Global Headcount American Lawyer OFFICES 85 + Locations across the nation and continuing to grow
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For 27 years, the 40 Under Forty Committee at Law Bulletin Media has sifted through piles of nomination forms to select 40 of the most tal- ented 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 the ever-changing legal profession, the competition featured in these pag- es has remained intense. In 2026, more than 1000 nominations for at- torneys throughout Illinois were received. While the method of how we receive nominations has evolved; choosing who to include was just as challenging as the previous 26 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 was no easy task. We solicited nominations from across the state. We then worked with our nominated attorneys to fine-tune their profiles. We hope the result provides 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 ever one of the 40 young attorneys featured in this publication has accomplished.
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Copyright © 2026 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.
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
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Honoree Table of Contents
16 Benjamin Altshul Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC
17 Saurish Appleby- Bhattacharjee BCLP LLP
18 Tyler Born Willkie Farr & Gallagher
19 Peter Brady Peck Ritchey, LLC
22 Julie Busch Johnson & Bell
23 Joshua Cauhorn Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C.
24 Colleen Cavanagh Esbrook, P.C.
25 Zach Cohen Berger Schatz
28 Molly Condon Wells Wallace Miller
29 Judy Conway Cooney & Conway
32 Robert Curcio Curcio & Casciato
33 Aali Fidai Chuhak & Tecson, P.C.
34 Kimberly Flanigan Pretzel & Stouffer
35 Paris Glazer Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP
38 Jason Gluskin Barker, Castro & Steinback, LLC
39 Alexandra Greenberg Davis Friedman
40 Loren Gutiérrez Legal Aid Society
41 Patricia Hudson Taxman Pollock & Bekkerman
44 David Jasinski Clifford Law Offices, P.C.
10 40 Under Forty 2026 CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN
45 Kathryn Kaler Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg LLP
46 Matthew Kaminski Hall Prangle
47 Colleen Kilbride Chicago Laborers’ District Council
50 Ben Mahon McAndrews, Held & Malloy
51 Taylor Matichak Coleman Lynch & Partners
52 Michele Moreschi Dussias Wittenberg Koenigsberger LLP
53 Jennifer Niesen Christopoulos Law Group
56 Ken Notter MoloLamken LLP
57 Lauren Park Levin & Perconti
58 Stephen Phillips Phillips Law Offices
59 Austin Rahe Rock Fusco and Connelly, LLC
62 Lauren Rankins Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP
63 Jordan Rosenberg Beermann LLP
64 Brian Roth Gordon Rees Scully Mansukhani LLP
65 Kristine
Schanbacher Dentons US, LLP
68 Jaime Simon Sidley Austin LLP
69 DeAndre Tillman Odelson, Murphey, Frazier & McGrath, Ltd.
70 Emily Tripicchio BatesCarey LLP
71 Steven Vanderporten Gould Grieco & Hensley
74 Chlece Walker-Neal-Murray Chicago Advocate Legal, NFP
75 Sterling Williams Much Shelist
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“
BENJAMIN ALTSHUL AGE: 38 FIRM : Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC LAW SCHOOL : Chicago-Kent College of Law What distinguishes Benjamin from his peers is his ability to operate as both lawyer and business advisor. ”
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Real estate
B enjamin Altshul has built his career in real estate law around one truth: Clients don’t hire lawyers to paper deals, they hire advisors they rely on to help them make better business decisions. That philosophy has helped this partner in Levenfeld Pearl- stein’s Real Estate Group become a trusted advisor to institu- tional investors, private equity sponsors, developers and en- trepreneurial real estate operators across the country. The numbers tell the story: During the past two years alone, Altshul has handled transactions totaling more than $500 mil- lion in value, representing clients in acquisitions, dispositions, financings, joint ventures and leasing matters involving multi- family, retail, office, industrial and self-storage properties. “What distinguishes Benjamin from his peers is his ability to operate as both lawyer and business advisor,” said Deb Knupp, managing director with GrowthPlay. “He underwrites the economics of his clients’ deals alongside the legal docu- ments, anticipates the issues that will matter most at closing and beyond, and tailors his approach to each client’s invest- ment strategy.” His practice spans borrower-side financing, purchase and sale negotiations, title and survey review, liability structuring and complex leasing matters. Clients seek him out specifical- ly for his work negotiating nonrecourse carve-out guaranties, highly technical loan provisions.
Recent engagements show how that approach plays out. He served as lead attorney on the financing for the acquisition and redevelopment of a 615,000-square-foot landmark Chi- cago riverfront property, structuring a financing package that included an equity pledge, completion guaranty, carry guaran- ty, recourse carve-out guaranty and deferred equity guaranty. He also represented a real estate investment firm in a $173 million Florida multifamily acquisition. He guided one of the nation’s largest residential real estate owners through the acquisition of a Texas apartment complex. Altshul has also become one of Levenfeld Pearlstein’s lead- ers in the use of generative artificial intelligence. As a member of the firm’s AI Ambassadors program, he builds AI skills and transactional playbooks that compress the mechanical parts of the work, title and survey review among them, and pass the resulting time and cost savings to clients. His work in the field has earned recognition beyond his firm. In 2025, he was invited to speak at the Chicago Bar Associa- tion’s AI 2025 Symposium, where he shared practical insights on integrating AI into sophisticated transactional practices. Outside the office, Altshul is committed to community lead- ership. He serves on the board of the Jewish Council for Youth Services and became its board president in July 2026. It is the same role he plays for clients — the person in the room ex- pected to see the whole picture, not just his piece of it.
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“
SAURISH APPLEBY- BHATTACHARJEE He is the person teams turn to when the stakes are high, and he consistently delivers work that reflects both rigor and integrity. ”
AGE : 39 FIRM : BCLP LLP LAW SCHOOL : UCLA School of Law AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Complex civil and criminal litigation, government enforcement actions
S aurish Appleby-Bhattacharjee is no stranger to success in the courtroom, regularly earning significant wins for his clients in some of the most complex civil and criminal cases. Whether prosecuting billion-dollar fraud cases as a federal prosecutor or representing major corporate clients in complex disputes at BCLP, Appleby-Bhattacharjee has built a reputation for remaining composed when the stakes are at their highest. “Saurish brings a steady, thoughtful approach that inspires trust,” said a nominator, “He is the person teams turn to when the stakes are high, and he consistently delivers work that re- flects both rigor and integrity. Strategic insight, trial excellence and unwavering professionalism make Saurish’s lawyering not just strong, but exceptional.” Appleby-Bhattacharjee focuses his practice on complex civil and criminal litigation, government enforcement actions, whistleblower matters and internal investigations. He’s worked in both public service and private practice, giving him a per- spective that clients value when navigating investigations and high-profile litigation. Appleby-Bhattacharjee began his career as a federal pros- ecutor, first in Los Angeles and later in Chicago. During that time, he tried numerous cases to verdict and argued appeals before the U.S. Courts of Appeals for the Seventh and Ninth Circuits. One notable case during his time as a federal prosecutor was when he served as co-counsel in a 10-week, billion-dollar
fraud trial that resulted in guilty verdicts. At BCLP, Apple- by-Bhattacharjee has continued to build on that courtroom experience. He has served as lead trial counsel in multiple high- stakes arbitrations for one of the firm's largest financial institu- tion clients, compiling a perfect record in matters that made it to hearing. Appleby-Bhattacharjee has also taken on leadership roles beyond client work. In 2025, he led BCLP's efforts to file am- icus briefs on behalf of National Security Leaders for America challenging the federal government's deployment of National Guard troops in connection with immigration enforcement in Illinois. He also helped lead an amicus brief supporting organi- zations challenging the dismantling of the federal Community Relations Service. Mentorship is also important to Appleby-Bhattacharjee. He is among the youngest members of BCLP's core faculty for its internal Trial Academy and Deposition Academy, where he helps train litigators and advises junior associates on profes- sional development. He is also president of the South Asian Bar Association of Chicago Foundation, where he helps over- see grantmaking and initiatives designed to expand access to justice. “Saurish Appleby Bhattacharjee exemplifies the very best of Illinois’ rising legal talent,” the nominator said. “He is a formi- dable trial lawyer, a trusted advisor and a dedicated educator shaping the next generation of public minded attorneys.”
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
Tyler is known for his exceptional legal skills and his willingness to always go the extra mile for his clients. ”
TYLER BORN
AGE: 39 FIRM : Willkie Farr & Gallagher LAW SCHOOL : University of Chicago Law School AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Corporate and financial services
T yler Born has built a reputation for guiding his clients through high-stakes corporate transactions with a steady hand, even when unexpected events threaten to derail a deal. His peers credit this ability with making Born one of Chicago's rising corporate attorneys, one who works with his clients on some of the market's most complex mergers and acquisitions. A partner in the Corporate & Financial Services Department at Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, Born concentrates his practice on structuring, negotiating and managing complex business transactions for private equity sponsors, publicly traded com- panies and privately held businesses. Born's client roster reflects how varied his practice is. He has advised businesses across industries ranging from logistics, manufacturing and transportation to life sciences, technology, insurance, financial and business services, infrastructure and real estate. Some notable deals he’s helped his clients close? He repre- sented Blue Wolf Capital Partners in its $1.2 billion take-private acquisition of LOGISTEC Corporation and the subsequent sale of LOGISTEC's marine terminal division to Enstructure. He also advised NanoString Technologies in the bankruptcy-supervised sale of its assets to Bruker Corporation and represented Bridge Growth Partners in its sale of Accedian to Cisco. And that’s just a small sampling of Born’s work. His fellow attorneys point not only to the complexity of Born's work but
also to his ability to keep transactions moving when unexpected surprises hit. One attorney recalls working alongside Born on the sale of a large family-owned company to a private equity buyer. After months of carefully managing a competitive auction process, the parties had reached agreement just as the COVID-19 pan- demic brought dealmaking to a near standstill. When financing markets froze and uncertainty threatened to scuttle the trans- action, Born remained calm, reengaged the parties and ulti- mately helped close the acquisition. His fellow attorney said that this deal showcased Born's ability to balance strategic thinking with practical problem-solving while keeping both clients and deal teams focused. Promoted to partner in 2024, Born has become a central figure in developing Willkie Farr & Gallagher’s Chicago trans- actional practice. He serves as a hiring partner overseeing re- cruitment for the office's transactional group, has co-led the firm's summer associate program for the past three years, and helped launch a corporate professional development program designed to accelerate associate training and mentorship. Craig C. Martin, Chairman, Americas of Willkie Farr & Gallagh- er, notes that, “Tyler is known for his exceptional legal skills and his willingness to always go the extra mile for his clients and his partners. He is an invaluable asset to our Chicago office and the broader Willkie platform.”
18 40 Under Forty 2026 CHICAGO LAWYER & CHICAGO DAILY LAW BULLETIN
2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
In my view, he is a gifted litigator and one of the most impressive young attorneys to appear before me in trust and probate matters. ”
PETER BRADY
AGE: 39 FIRM : Peck Ritchey, LLC LAW SCHOOL : Loyola University Chicago School of Law
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Estate and trust litigation
P eter Brady’s practice focuses on some of the most emo- tionally charged disputes in the legal profession. Estate and trust litigation often pits family members against one another in high-stakes legal matters. Brady though, has built a reputation for navigating those difficult cases, easing much of the stress for his clients, thanks to his legal knowledge, preparation and fierce advocacy. Whether a dispute involves allegations of financial exploita- tion, breach of fiduciary duty, contested wills or inheritance claims, colleagues and judges say that Brady combines techni- cal legal knowledge with an ability to explain complex issues in straightforward terms that his clients and judges can understand. As noted by one Cook County Judge, “He demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the unique procedural and sub- stantive issues that arise in probate proceedings. He also exer- cises sound judgment, recognizing when litigation is warranted and when practical resolution may better serve the interests of the parties involved. In my view, he is a gifted litigator and one of the most impressive young attorneys to appear before me in trust and probate matters.” His courtroom results are evidence of his skill. In one mat- ter, Brady represented an executor defending her mother's will after half-siblings alleged that the document was forged and
included fraudulent signatures. Brady successfully challenged the plaintiffs' handwriting expert and secured summary judg- ment, preserving the validity of the will. He also obtained summary judgment on behalf of a widow ac- cused by her late husband's daughters of interfering with their inheritance by allegedly influencing trust amendments and IRA beneficiary changes while their father was cognitively impaired. Brady has demonstrated equal success at trial. Representing the administrator of an estate, he prevailed in claims against a sibling who breached fiduciary duties by taking money from an elderly, disabled mother before her death, winning monetary damages and attorney fees. Brady has shown a willingness to litigate aggressively while recognizing when settlement serves clients best. He has also negotiated favorable resolutions in fiduciary-duty disputes that substantially increased recoveries for beneficiaries and, in an- other matter, persuaded a plaintiff to abandon all claims after he filed a motion to dismiss. “Peter is a strong litigator and advocate for his clients,” said Mallory Moreno, principal with the Chicago office of Chuhak & Tecson. “He has an excellent grasp on trust and estates law, and he is reasonable and easy to work with in negotiating results for the betterment of a case.”
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Congratulations to our colleague for being honored as one of 2026’s 40 Under Forty Michele Moreschi
DWKLLP.COM Family lawyers dedicated to protecting what you value most - in business and in life
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
You can rely on Julie to nail down every detail and turn over every single stone in defense of her clients. ”
JULIE BUSCH
AGE: 39 FIRM : Johnson & Bell LAW SCHOOL : University of Illinois Chicago School of Law/ John Marshall Law School
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Transportation, general liability, personal injury
J ulie Busch has quickly built a career as a top personal injury and general liability specialist in the Chicago area, serving as second chair in multiple trials for Fortune 500 companies in the technology, transportation and hospitality sectors. And those who have litigated cases against Busch? They say that she is a fierce advocate for her clients who boasts a com- manding courtroom presence and a deep knowledge of the law, making her a formidable opponent. “I have the utmost respect for Julie Busch,” said Michael Mead, attorney with Chicago's Faklis, Tallis & Mead. “She is a highly skilled litigator who handles cases with top-tier profes- sionalism. I know this firsthand from having litigated against her.” Busch has already earned several impressive victories for her clients. Recently, she secured a summary judgment win for a large trucking company in a wrongful death case, something that her peers say is a rarity in the jurisdiction in which the trial was held. While defending her client, Busch noticed a tree that could obscure a driver’s view at the scene of the accident. Her dog- gedness led to obtaining settlement funds from the municipality responsible for maintaining the foliage in the area and resolving the matter favorably for her client.
“You can rely on Julie to nail down every detail and turn over every single stone in defense of her clients,” said Jaynee Tyler, general counsel with K&B Transportation. Busch also suspected that a claimant might have been com- mitting fraud in a collision. She tracked down the records for every insurance policy and claim he had submitted, a number close to 50, and completely undermined his credibility during the deposition. “Her clients trust her and count on her,” said Kehl Friesen, an attorney with the Kansas City office of Baker Sterchi Cowden & Rice LLC. “She continues to deliver great results. Julie has a unique ability to anticipate opposing party's tactics at trial and put on the best case for her client.” Chris Lawler, a retired judge with the Circuit Court of Cook County, first met Busch when she and her partner tried a case in front of him. Busch led the medical testimony and presented all motions in limine for the trial. “Her presentation was excellent,” Lawler said. “She handled herself as if she was a veteran trial attorney.” In addition to defending Fortune 500 companies in high- stakes trials, Busch has handled catastrophic excess matters for large insurance carriers.
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
JOSHUA CAUHORN AGE: 39 FIRM : Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C. LAW SCHOOL : Loyola University Chicago School of Law AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Business litigation, outside counsel to businesses Having been an attorney myself for almost 45 years, I would not hesitate to trust Josh with my own personal matters. ”
H is peers call Josh Cauhorn a jack of all trades. Not only has this business litigator successfully tried and settled several multi-million-dollar trials, he has also become a trusted advisor to entrepreneurs and mid-market companies. Geneva Ramirez, an attorney with Chicago's Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP office, has seen this firsthand. She credits going to trial with Cauhorn while she was a junior associate as setting the benchmark for the type of litigator she wanted to become. “He is a storyteller and a teacher,” Ramirez said. “He is able to communicate complex legal nuances to jurors in a compelling and understandable manner. He puts witnesses and his clients at ease. Judges defer to him because he is a clear and level-headed communicator.” Ramirez said that Cauhorn's clients trust in his counsel when it's time to make difficult decisions. That's because he takes the time to learn his clients' histories, businesses and challenges. Not surprisingly, given his legal skills and courtroom pres- ence, Cauhorn has notched several big wins for his clients. An example is when he represented the buyer of a Small Busi- ness Administration licensee entity after the seller alleged breaches of a purchase contract. About $9 million was at issue
in this case, and the seller also sued an affiliate of the buyer. Cauhorn achieved a complete judgment in favor of the affiliate. Cauhorn also represented the seller of a rehabilitation and nursing home business in a case against the buyer's principals, alleging that they engaged in fraud and breached the purchase contract. Cauhorn helped navigate the case through a jury trial and earn a judgment in the amount of $51.8 million. “Josh is an exemplary lawyer,” said Eric Bernard, an attor- ney with the Downers Grove office of Petrarca, Gleason, Boyle & Izzo. “His litigation skills from intake through appeal are top-notch. He is an excellent writer capable of distilling extremely complex issues into digestible briefs that are persua- sive and effective. He also has excellent soft skills, which many attorneys lack.” Stuart Gordon, attorney with Chicago's Mattenson & Gordon, Ltd., said Cauhorn possesses a winning combination of intelli- gence, skill, integrity and ingenuity when handling cases. “Not only does he know the law, he is able to use and interpret the law in unique ways to further his clients' interests,” Gordon said. Having been an attorney myself for almost 45 years, I would not hesitate to trust Josh with my own personal matters.”
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
COLLEEN CAVANAGH She has achieved results that many litigators spend decades striving to attain. ”
AGE: 32 FIRM : Esbrook, P.C. LAW SCHOOL : DePaul University
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: College of Law Commercial litigation
D uring her legal career, Colleen Cavanagh has embraced the high-pressure assignments that many young attor- neys spend years waiting to tackle. Whether preparing expert witnesses for trial, arguing substantive motions in federal court or uncovering overlooked documents that change the course of a lawsuit, this 32-year-old commercial litigator has developed a reputation for meticulous preparation and practi- cal problem-solving. Now an attorney with Esbrook P.C. in Chicago, Cavanagh draws on experience gained at two of the nation's largest law firms. After graduating from DePaul University College of Law and serving as a judicial extern for Cook County Circuit Court Judge Michael T. Mullen, Cavanagh joined Winston & Strawn be- fore moving to Kirkland & Ellis, where she practiced from 2021 through 2024. She joined Esbrook in September of 2024. During those years, Cavanagh worked on complex litigation across state and federal courts in Illinois, Indiana, New Jersey and Florida. Early in her career at Winston, she represent- ed DePaul University in litigation stemming from the school's transition to remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. After briefing the dismissal motion and assisting during oral ar- guments, the court dismissed the proposed class action, finding the defense arguments persuasive. “Colleen Cavanagh is precisely the type of attorney this award was created to recognize: accomplished, principled,
client-focused, and already shaping the future of the Illinois bar,” said Matthew Tully of Chicago’s Tully & Associates. “She has achieved results that many litigators spend decades striving to attain. At Kirkland & Ellis, Cavanagh gained extensive trial experience as part of the defense team representing 3M in two bellweth- er trials within one of the nation's largest multidistrict litigation matters. She prepared pretrial motions, motions in limine and jury instructions while also preparing a key medical expert for testimony and serving as second chair during two days of trial testimony. Both cases ended with unanimous defense verdicts. Her multidistrict litigation work also included representing Sanderson Farms in antitrust litigation and Syngenta in product liability matters. “A vital part of Colleen’s practice is seeking the most efficient and effective results for her clients, particularly when that re- quires her to think outside the box,” said Tim Cavanagh with Chicago’s Cavanagh Sorich Law Group. At Esbrook, Cavanagh represents a large corporation defend- ing claims under the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act, successfully preserving key affirmative defenses and managing significant portions of discovery. She also currently represents a father and son in their pursuit of FTCA claims against the Unit- ed States stemming from their separation at the United States border while seeking asylum.
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2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
What makes Zach stand out is that he also has the kind of innate talent for litigation that the very best trial lawyers possess naturally. ”
ZACH COHEN
AGE: 36 FIRM : Berger Schatz LAW SCHOOL : University of Minnesota Law School
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Family, matrimonial law
Z ach Cohen is a family law attorney that guides his clients through some of the most difficult moments of their lives with both legal skill and compassion. It’s why Cohen at the young age of 36 has already built a thriving family and matri- monial law practice at Chicago’s Berger Schatz. Colleagues say Cohen possesses the rarest of combinations: natural courtroom talent and an unmatched work ethic. While many successful litigators rely on instinct, Cohen has always believed that preparation is the foundation of success. Early in his career, Cohen routinely spent weekends in the office study- ing case law, refining legal arguments and ensuring he was fully prepared for every hearing. That dedication has never faded. “Zach is incredibly thoughtful, intelligent and always excep- tionally prepared. He works extremely hard, but so do many attorneys. What makes Zach stand out is that he also has the kind of innate talent for litigation that the very best trial law- yers possess naturally,” said Ashley Wood, partner with the Chicago office of Katz & Stefani. “Some attorneys with that level of natural talent can rely on it and still achieve strong results. Zach has never approached his career that way. He is always striving to improve.” Peers say that one of Cohen's greatest strengths is his command of the law. They point to his exceptional memory,
often recalling cases, statutes and supporting legal authority without referring to notes. That depth of knowledge allows him to develop innovative legal arguments that others may overlook while ensuring those arguments are firmly rooted in established legal principles. His preparation extends beyond legal research. Cohen care- fully studies every aspect of a case, enabling him to anticipate opposing arguments and tailor strategies that reflect each cli- ent's unique circumstances. Whether negotiating a settlement or litigating a contested matter, he approaches every case with the same level of diligence. Cohen’s versatility is another hallmark of his practice. Not only is Cohen is an accomplished litigator, but he is equally effective in negotiations when staying out of court is the best option for his clients. Peers say that Cohen adapts his approach to meet the specific needs of each case and each family. “Zach excels in all aspects of family law, in the courtroom litigating evidentiary and summary matters and also out of the courtroom by working diligently to represent the client's best interests by way of out-of-court settlement,” said Alexandra Greenberg, partner with Chicago’s Davis Friedman. “He priori- tizes the needs of his client in every case.”
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Cooney & Conway, LLP Congratulates Judy Conway
on being selected as one of the Law Bulletin Media’s 2026 40 Under Forty Illinois Attorneys to Watch
Representing injured persons and their families for 67 years (312) 236-6166 191 N Wacker Dr Ste 1500 Chicago, IL 60606 www.cooneyconway.com
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Welcomes Our Partner Taylor R. Matichak
Matthew Coleman Class of 2018 40 Under Forty
Dennis Lynch Class of 2021 40 Under Forty
Working lawyers for working families. clptriallaw.com
2026 ILLINOIS ATTORNEYS TO WATCH
“
What struck me immediately and has continued to impress
MOLLY CONDON WELLS AGE: 36 FIRM : Wallace Miller LAW SCHOOL : Chicago-Kent College of Law me is how naturally she commands a room. ”
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Mass tort, personal injury, sexual abuse
M olly Condon Wells has built a career that covers two of the most demanding areas of plaintiff-side litigation: national mass torts and trauma-informed advocacy for the sur- vivors of sexual abuse. In both, she has earned a reputation as a lawyer who combines courtroom skill with compassion and strategic leadership. Wells has quickly become a trusted figure in complex prod- uct liability litigation. She serves as liaison counsel in the federal Tepezza marketing, sales practices and products liability litiga- tion and is a member of the Leadership Development Commit- tee in the hair relaxer multidistrict litigation, one of the country's largest mass tort cases. She is also in leadership in the hair relax- er consolidated litigation in Cook County. Wells has also served on leadership committees in several other national litigations, including cases involving Paragard, Essure, Gilead Tenofovir and Roblox, and has helped prepare MDL bellwether trials involving women allegedly harmed by de- fective medical devices. "Molly is a phenomenal trial lawyer who is not only wise be- yond her years in her already illustrious career, but also a zeal- ous advocate for the clients she represents,” said Rob Kohen, partner with Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard, P.C. Wells has shone outside the courtroom, too. At Wallace Mill- er, she founded the firm's Survivor Advocacy practice, creating a trauma-informed practice focusing on survivor empowerment
in sexual abuse litigation. Through that work, Wells has recov- ered millions of dollars in confidential settlements for survivors. “What struck me immediately and has continued to impress me is how naturally she commands a room while simultaneously putting everyone in it at ease,” said Sarah Raisch, partner with Romanucci & Blandin. “That rare combination of authority and warmth is a genuine and powerful litigation tool.” Wells’ advocacy has extended beyond individual cases. Wells authored an amicus brief before the Illinois Supreme Court in Geller v. Uber on behalf of the Women's Bar Association of Illinois, the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault and the Victim Rights Law Center, advancing legal arguments aimed at strengthening protections for survivors. Beyond her practice, Wells has invested heavily in the legal profession. Ms. Wells serves as a board member of the Lawyer’s Lend-a-Hand organization and on the Board of Advocates of the Illinois Trial Lawyer’s Association. She has spent nearly a decade serving the Women's Bar Association of Illinois in committee and executive leadership roles, and is now the organization's second vice president. “Molly’s lawyering skills are exceptional because she brings together sophisticated litigation strategy, deep empathy, careful judgment and the ability to lead in some of the most complex and sensitive cases in the country,” said Kelly Sabo Gaden, part- ner at Levin & Perconti.
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JUDY CONWAY AGE: 38 FIRM : Cooney & Conway LAW SCHOOL : University of Michigan Law School Judy's national presence sets her apart from her peers. ” “
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Toxic torts
J udy Conway never hesitates to take on the most challeng- ing of cases. It's not unusual, either, for Conway to earn major victories for her clients in them. It's one of the reasons why Conway has carved out a repu- tation as one of the top plaintiff's personal injury attorneys in the Chicago area. Conway successfully briefed and argued that amendments to Illinois’ Statute of Repose, Worker's Occupational Diseas- es Act, and Worker's Compensation Act were constitutional, which expanded access to justice for plaintiffs statewide. She has also recovered millions of dollars on behalf of catastroph- ically injured individuals, with an emphasis on clients who have suffered diseases from asbestos exposure. “Judith represents a wide range of clients across the coun- try and takes on massive corporations in her efforts to make the world safer,” said Eirene Nakamura Salvi with Chicago's Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. “The work that she and her firm do in holding these corporations accountable is truly phenomenal.” Conway's results speak for themselves. In a 2018 civil rights case, she helped secure a $20 million settlement on behalf of two plaintiffs after three weeks of trial with co-counsel Timothy Cavanaugh and Michael Sorich. In a 2022 personal
injury case, she recovered $9.2 million for a plaintiff whose was injured from chemical exposures at work. Conway recovered $5 million in a 2024 sexual abuse case in New York and in 2025 recovered $10 million for a client killed in a vehicle collision in Texas. She recently recovered $4.95 million from a single defendant in an asbestos case. “Judy is quite a remarkable woman,” said Jennifer Irmen with the Irmen Law Group. “It is truly impressive how she can juggle complex tort litigation, acting as a leader in multiple bar associations and motherhood.” Conway is past Chair of the Young Lawyer and Tort Law Councils of the ISBA and will be President of the Illinois Bar Foundation in 2028. She is regularly invited to speak at conferences across the country. During her career, Conway has worked on more than 50 in- jury cases that have resolved in excess of $1 million. She has also been the lead attorney on more than 100 matters that are past trial, recovering in excess of $110 million. “Judy's national presence sets her apart from her peers,” said Bruno Marasso of Chicago's Marasso Law, LLC. “While there are many accomplished and skilled trial lawyers helping individ- uals in our state, very few members of the Plaintiff's bar can translate our success with our rules, communities and laws into success in completely different venues. Judy does it regularly.”
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“
Robert Curcio has the ever elusive and rare ‘it factor’ that truly successful and formidable trial lawyers must have to separate themselves as standouts. ”
ROBERT CURCIO
AGE: 34 FIRM : Curcio & Casciato LAW SCHOOL : University of Illinois Chicago School of Law/ John Marshall Law School AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Plaintiff's personal injury, wrongful death
R obert “R.J.” Curcio has built a reputation as one of Chi- cago's leading young plaintiff's trial lawyers while simulta- neously assuming responsibility for managing one of the city's well-established personal injury firms. As a leader of Curcio & Casciato, the firm founded by his father, Joseph R. Curcio, Curcio has succeeded in juggling the demands of running a law practice with maintaining a thriving plaintiff’s personal injury practice. This combination of legal skill, business know-how and court- room poise has helped Curcio establish himself as one of Chica- go's best young plaintiffs' attorneys. Curcio has earned a string of notable victories for injured cli- ents. This includes a $30 million settlement on behalf of a moth- er and daughter struck by a commercial vehicle, a $12.5 million settlement in a failure-to-diagnose medical negligence case, a $6 million wrongful death recovery, a $5.5 million trucking set- tlement and a $3.7 million jury verdict involving a fleeing vehicle. Colleagues say those outcomes are no accident. They credit Curcio's meticulous preparation and willingness to litigate every case as though it will ultimately be decided by a jury. “RJ does not take shortcuts,” said Stephen Phillips of Chi- cago’s Phillips Law Offices. “He works hard to find liability and
coverage on his cases with some exceptional lawyering.” Curcio has developed creative theories in challenging cases. In one matter, he transformed what initially appeared to be a routine pedestrian accident into a successful claim centered on negligent parking lot design. In another, involving a train that severed a client's leg, he developed a liability theory based on the angle of the tracks and surrounding terrain. “What ties these results together is a consistent standard: Every case is prepared as if a jury will decide it,” said Antonio Romanucci, with the Chicago office of Romanucci & Blandin. “That level of commitment is what compels real accountability from opponents and produces outcomes that genuinely reflect the harm his clients have suffered.” Curcio has built this thriving practice even as he has taken on more responsibilities at his firm. As managing attorney with Curcio & Casciato, Curcio oversees personnel, financial manage- ment, strategic planning and the firm's day-to-day operations while maintaining a demanding trial practice. “Robert Curcio has the ever elusive and rare ‘it factor’ that truly successful and formidable trial lawyers must have to sepa- rate themselves as standouts,” said Michael Cox with the Chica- go office of Goldberg & Goldberg.
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He is not a reactive attorney; he is proactive. His negotiation style reflects both confidence and pragmatism. ”
AALI FIDAI
AGE: 37 FIRM : Chuhak & Tecson, P.C. LAW SCHOOL : University of Illinois Chicago School of Law/ John Marshall Law School
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Commercial real estate
A father of two who immigrated from Pakistan to the United States in 2008, Aali Fidai has steadily built a commercial real estate law practice that has earned the trust of some of the biggest names in the real estate industry. How? This young attorney has developed a reputation for understanding compli- cated transactions, anticipating potential problems and helping his clients successfully navigate sophisticated legal issues. Peers say that Fidai’s ability to communicate sets him apart. He has a talent for breaking down complicated legal ques- tions into clear guidance, steering his clients toward the most cost-effective solutions. Rather than simply telling clients what they should do though, Fidai explains why a strategy makes sense and how it benefits his clients’ business objectives. “He is able to take very complex commercial real estate situ- ations and make them easy to digest for layperson clients while still being able to properly advocate for them with his depth of legal knowledge,” said Jeffrey Anderson with Houston-based JDA Trials LLC. Fidai’s real estate knowledge extends beyond the legal side of transactions. His prior experience in the construction and real estate industries gives him a practical understanding of how projects are developed, financed and completed, providing an important perspective when advising clients on complex transactions.
That combination of legal and industry knowledge has helped Fidai develop a reputation as a strategic counselor to his clients. He identifies risks before they become problems and develops solutions that keep transactions moving while protecting his clients’ interests. “What truly sets Aali apart is his ability to anticipate challeng- es before they arise,” said Jacqueline Matz, with Illinois-based YCharts. “He is not a reactive attorney; he is proactive. His nego- tiation style reflects both confidence and pragmatism.” Colleagues point to Fidai’s work on high-value transactions as evidence of the trust he has earned from his clients. He has led and closed sophisticated deals that might typically fall to more senior attorneys. “Aali is one of the most dedicated and caring attorneys I have ever met,” said Mo Dadkhah, founder of Illinois-based Dadkhah Law Group. “I have hired attorneys, worked with countless and have trained many others. Aali is one of the most knowledgeable and caring attorneys in the real estate sector. That is something people say often about people, but with Aali it’s not just a gen- eralized statement. He truly embodies an attorney who cares.” Fidai’s impact extends beyond his own practice. He has developed a reputation for helping other attorneys, including those outside his firm, and for supporting and mentoring younger lawyers.
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Having been an opponent on cases with Kim, I can say that she is prepared, steadfast and has a strong command of the issues at hand. ”
KIMBERLY FLANIGAN AGE: 38 FIRM : Pretzel & Stouffer LAW SCHOOL : DePaul University College of Law
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Civil litigation, medical malpractice defense
I t’s easy to see why Kimberly Flanigan has already built a rep- utation as one of the rising stars in the medical malpractice field: Her peers say that no one comes to a case better pre- pared, while few attorneys can match her courtroom poise and mastery of the medical issues at the heart of complex mal- practice litigation. A partner with Pretzel & Stouffer, Flanigan represents phy- sicians, hospitals, and other healthcare providers. From pre- suit case evaluations through jury verdicts, she is known for handling challenging cases with a steady, disciplined approach that has earned the respect of clients, colleagues and even opposing counsel. “These are the qualities of an outstanding trial lawyer, and they were evident in every phase of the case I tried against her,” said Daniel Madigan, trial attorney with Chicago’s Napleton & Partners. “She delivered the closing argument on behalf of her client, an assignment that requires both confidence and credi- bility. Her presentation was clear, organized, and persuasive, re- flecting not only a deep understanding of the medicine involved but also a refined ability to communicate effectively with a jury.” Flanigan’s work has produced impressive results in some of Illinois' highest-stakes medical malpractice lawsuits. In March 2026, Flanigan and a fellow partner secured a complete defense
verdict in a case involving a $5 million demand for non-econom- ic damages. The victory followed another successful defense verdict in a multiparty medical malpractice trial in Lake County in 2025, where plaintiffs sought $5.5 million in damages. Earlier in her career, she also helped defend a local hospital against claims exceeding $20 million. “Having been an opponent on cases with Kim, I can say that she is prepared, steadfast and has a strong command of the is- sues at hand,” said Jordan Powell, with Chicago’s Passen Powell Jenkins. “But while being a strong advocate for her clients, she does this in a professional way and never loses sight of the con- geniality that is necessary to successfully defend her clients.” Flanigan's accomplishments have also been recognized throughout the legal profession. In 2024, she received Law Bulletin Media's Trial Lawyer Excellence Award for Outstanding Defense Verdict in a Medical Malpractice Case. “Kim has obtained exceptional results for her clients both in the courtroom through motion practice and verdicts and through settlements that are fair and reasonable,” said David Gallagher with Chicago’s Napleton & Partners. Beyond the courtroom, Flanigan contributes to the profes- sion through mentorship and trial advocacy programs, helping develop the next generation of litigators.
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We value practical thinkers like Paris who can provide us with solutions, not just legal analysis. ”
PARIS GLAZER
AGE: 39 FIRM : Hinshaw & Culbertson LLP LAW SCHOOL : University of Minnesota Law School
AREA(S) OF PRACTICE: Insurance coverage
P aris Glazer has built a sophisticated insurance coverage and diverse civil litigation practice by seeking out challenging legal disputes and deliberately broadening his areas of practice. He represents U.S., London, and Bermuda insurers in complex coverage matters nationwide, in disputes ranging from environ- mental, construction and manufacturing losses to commercial space launch claims. He also defends businesses in civil litiga- tion, including defamation, catastrophic accidents, contract and employment disputes. “We value practical thinkers like Paris who can provide us with solutions, not just legal analysis,” said John Corvino, senior vice president and general counsel with the Chicago White Sox. Colleagues describe Glazer’s oral advocacy as conversational and engaging, helping judges grasp technical concepts without sacrificing legal precision. They also note his ability to adapt his approach in real time as circumstances change. “Whenever anyone had a challenging insurance coverage issue, Paris was the first person people called,” said Conrad Nowak, who worked closely with Glazer for years, before switch- ing sides to join Corboy & Demetrio. “He has a remarkable ability to take complicated facts, dense policy language and unsettled legal issues and reduce them to clear, practical action items.” Opposing counsel appreciate his methods as well. Tyler Rench,
a partner at Jones Walker in New Orleans who litigated against Glazer, complimented his personable and pragmatic approach. In the courtroom, Glazer’s results reflect his preparation. In early 2025, he secured a full defense judgment for an Illi- nois business following a bench trial. Attendees complimented his cross-examination of the plaintiff’s key damages witness, during which Glazer elicited admissions that undermined the opposing theory. He has also won summary judgment and appellate victories in coverage disputes, including claims arising from biometric privacy, wrongful conviction, and other complex losses. Clients also have benefited from his approach to dispute resolution. In one complex commercial property insurance dispute, after mediation failed, Glazer developed an alternative framework that allowed the experts to reconcile competing methodologies. It ultimately led the parties to a successful commercial resolution. Glazer’s peers also point to another quality that distinguishes him: his comic timing. One judge recalled an argument in which Glazer invoked the movie The Big Lebowski to make a complex Illinois procedural issue both understandable and memorable. The point? Glazer makes every effort to engage his audience so they connect with his clients and his legal theories.
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