MCKENNA, STORER - Key Persons

Job Titles:

• Attorney
• Partner
• McKenna Attorney Receives Favorable Verdict in Admitted Liability Case March 17, 2014
• Named Partner at McKenna Storer July 8, 2019

Alexander Sweis is an outstanding trial attorney with more than a dozen jury trials to his credit. Clients of McKenna Storer appreciate the hard work, precision and thorough preparation that he brings to every matter that he handles. His accessibility to clients and willingness to take the time to discuss their cases with them is in keeping with the firm's focus on transparency in attorney relationships with clients. Biography Alexander Sweis has distinguished himself as a trial attorney with 13 jury trials that went to verdict. Two of Alex's verdicts were singled out for publication in the Cook County Jury Verdict Reporter. He has also represented clients in more than 100 arbitrations. His practice focuses on a broad spectrum of practice areas, including insurance defense, professional liability and business services. Home and family are very important to Alex, so he tries to take time from his busy professional schedule to spend it with his family. He also enjoys following Chicago sports teams and watching movies. Memberships Cook County Mandatory Arbitration, certified arbitrator Defense Research Institute Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel Claims Litigation Management Attorney Alex Sweis recently settled a high exposure knee surgery and pain injection case for a high cost of defense, take it or leave it offer. The plaintiff in the case allegedly sustained left knee ACL tear and underwent McKenna Storer is pleased to announce the appointment of their newest partner, Alexander Sweis. An outstanding trial attorney, Alexander is known for his precision and thorough preparation. His clients value his hard work, dedication, and accessibility. Alexander has been with

Alison Harkins will be a featured speaker at the John Marshall Privacy Law Spring Symposium entitled "Legal Problems in Data Management: IT and Privacy at the Forefront" on April 10, 2015 at the John Marshall Law School. Alison has spent years counseling clients on all facets of these emerging issues which touch every phase of […]

Job Titles:

• Counsel
• Partner

Andrew D. Bratzel's years as a corporate in-house counsel and then general counsel are invaluable in advising clients on all phases of business issues. Andrew has more than 18 years of experience dealing with a multi-specialty Fortune 500 service company. Rising to be a general counsel, he learned about corporate governance, franchising, complex business transactions, regulatory issues, and all phases of lending and collecting from clients. His varied experience gives him a clear perspective on handling the many problems facing business and commercial clients. Biography Andrew D. Bratzel brings to McKenna Storer an impressive background of knowledge and experience from his almost two decades of work in the corporate world. Mr. Bratzel served as general counsel at ServiceMaster Clean, a franchising leader, and a division of ServiceMaster Company, a Fortune 500 company with operations around the globe. Andrew spent nearly 20 years in the law department of ServiceMaster drafting and interpreting contracts for domestic and international use. While working in the corporate world, he handled commercial real estate transactions, commercial litigation, construction matters, franchising, intellectual property issues, loan workouts, bankruptcy and corporate finance matters. He also conducted internal investigations on behalf of the corporation. The scope of the areas of law in which Andrew has experience is diverse. Estate planning and administration, banking and financial transactions, business formation, buy-sell transactional work, and privacy and data security are only a few of the types of matters in which Andrew offers services to clients of McKenna Storer. Andrew is married with three adult daughters. He is active in the community through organizations including Easter Seals DuPage and Fox River Valley. Memberships American Bar Association-Franchise and Business Law Committees DuPage County Bar Association McHenry County Bar Association Mediator, DuPage County Former Chairman and Board Member of Easter Seals of DuPage County

Job Titles:

• Partner

David A. Shapiro is an experienced, progressive, accomplished litigator with a passion for solving complex business and legal issues within his clients' financial and operational objectives. He is an innovative practitioner and skillful negotiator, adept in handling both defense and plaintiff commercial litigation in State and Federal Courts at both trial and appellate levels. He is well- versed in banking, construction, real estate, fraud and consumer fraud, and contract litigation. He possesses leadership skills in high-pressure, challenging and deadline-driven environments. Biography Mr. Shapiro operates within McKenna Storer's litigation practice, managing complex plaintiff and defendant commercial litigation cases involving banks, construction companies and contractors, architects, real estate developers and brokers, condo associations, finance companies, and automobile dealerships, among others. He develops and implements litigation strategy for his entire practice. He has 40 years of experience in litigating cases to verdict or engaging in negotiated settlements. Outside of the office, Mr. Shapiro can be found in the gym, catching a play or live music event or traveling to visit his widely dispersed family. Memberships Illinois State Bar Association Illinois Defense Counsel

Job Titles:

• Partner

Dawn E. Ehrenberg brings to the representation of her clients an extensive background in general civil litigation in state and federal courts. She has concentrated her practice in defending medical professionals, including physicians in medical malpractices suits, and in defending construction companies and product manufacturers. Clients appreciate her patience and the fact that she makes herself accessible to address their questions and concerns. Biography Dawn joined McKenna early in her career and has been representing insureds in their litigation matters ever since. She is an insightful and savvy litigator, focused on strategy and reaching a prompt and cost effective result for her clients. Her broad range of experience includes defending clients in cases involving medical and professional liability, nursing home liability, drug interactions, medical device claims, construction accident claims, and general tort claims related to product liability, motor vehicle accidents and premises liability. Dawn's varied experience makes her a reliable resource in the firm for litigation issues. She is particularly skilled in her preparation of witnesses for depositions and trial. For many years, she was editor of the McKenna Storer Tort Law Update which was published four times a year. During her time away from the office, Dawn enjoys traveling to exotic places. She especially enjoys cruises where she can meet a wide variety of people who share her love of travel. Dawn also enjoys the theater, movies and is a voracious reader. Memberships Illinois State Bar Association Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel Women's Bar Association IDC Medical Liability Committee (Co-Chair 2006-2011) IDC Spring Seminar Committee (1995-2005)

Job Titles:

• Leader
• Partner

Greg Cochran is recognized as an innovative and skilled practitioner in the complex field of toxic tort litigation. He has successfully and skillfully defended against toxic tort claims on behalf of manufacturers, distributors, contractors and premises owners in state and federal courts throughout Illinois for more than 30 years. He is also a former managing partner of McKenna Storer. Biography Greg Cochran is a recognized leader in the complex field of toxic tort litigation. He has skillfully and successfully defended against toxic tort and product liability claims on behalf of manufacturers, distributors, contractors and premises owners in state and federal courts throughout Illinois. He has represented clients across different industries including construction, transportation, municipal, medical devices, pharmaceutical, industrial and consumer products. His proven record of success defending clients in state and federal courts has earned him accolades from judges and members of the profession. Greg Cochran has been with McKenna Storer for almost 40 years. He joined the firm directly from law school and eventually rose to the position of partner. He has also served as the firm's managing partner. Greg works long hours to bring value to his clients. Greg is known for coming early, staying late and getting the job done. He also is a past president of the Illinois Association of Defense Council, and is active in many defense related associations. He has assembled an elite team of experienced defense attorneys to represent the firm's clients in litigation involving asbestos, benzene, silica, welding rods, mold, chemical exposure and other toxic torts. He encourages the members of his team to embody his philosophy of being client-oriented. This philosophy has won praise from clients who appreciate the responsiveness and quality of service they receive. Greg is a gifted negotiator and a well-respected trial attorney whose courtroom skills are recognized by judges and opposing counsel. In addition to serving as national and regional defense attorney in some of the most complex toxic tort cases, Greg and his team members serve as national coordinating counsel managing case inventories, developing strategies and overseeing all phases of litigation defense on behalf of the firm's clients. Greg is a leader among toxic tort litigation defense attorneys. He is an active member and past president of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. During his time away from the courtroom and the office, Greg and his wife enjoy outdoor activities including downhill skiing and water skiing. They also enjoy training together to participate in triathlons. He and his wife have two daughters and a grandchild. Memberships Federation of Defense & Corporate Counsel: Member, 2002 - 2022; Vice Chair of Toxic Tort & Environmental Law Section, 2003 - 2013; Member Trial Tactics, Practice and Procedures Section, Products Liability Section, Toxic Tort and Environmental Law Section Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel: President, 2008- 2009; President-Elect, 2007-2008; First Vice President, 2006-2007; Second Vice President, 2005 - 2006; Secretary/Treasurer, 2004 - 2005; Defense Tactics Seminar Chairman, 1993-1994; Board of Directors, 1994 - 2004; Co-Chair Products Liability Committee, 1997 - 1999; Co-Chair Membership Committee, 1999 - 2004 Member of Pro-Bono Panel, Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, 1983 - 2004 Arbitrator for the Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Program, 1988 - 1995

Job Titles:

• Partner

James P. DeNardo is a veteran appellate and employment attorney. He combines the skills and knowledge gained in an extensive career handling appellate cases at the highest levels in state and federal court with litigation experience as a skilled and respected employment law attorney. He provides insightful and cost effective solutions to clients. His knowledge of the trial and appellate courtroom give him a complete perspective on the litigation process for his clients. Biography Jim graduated from law school and spent a half year as law clerk to Justice Daniel J. McNamara of the Illinois Appellate Court. Jim served in Viet Nam as a Captain in the United States Army Judge Advocate Generals Corps. During his tour in Viet Nam, in addition to his court-martial work and as a foreign claims officer, he was tasked with teaching soldiers about the Geneva Conventions after the My Lai incident. He finished his career in the military stationed in the Federal Republic of Germany. The focus of Jim's practice at McKenna Storer is primarily employment law and workplace issues, such as discrimination in the employment setting, equal employment litigation and public accommodations and commercial facilities litigation. He has represented clients in litigation in state and federal courts and at the Federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Human Rights Commission. Jim has also appeared extensively in appellate courts at the state and federal levels including the Illinois Supreme Court and Appellate Court as well as before the United States Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit. Jim is a devoted father of two and grandfather of two. He is a voracious reader and movie buff. He takes classes for enrichment through Northwestern University.

Even though we regrettably had to say good bye to Jim Cook who joined the Illinois Attorney General, before he left he contributed to the Survey of Law put out by the IDC concerning toxic torts. The Survey is a very comprehensive look at multiple areas of tort law and can be found here.

Job Titles:

• Certified Public Accountant
• Partner

John W. Egan provides clients at McKenna Storer with advice and representation in individual, corporate, and partnership taxation based on his many years of experience and training as both an attorney and as a certified public accountant. He is also available for those clients needing advice and representation in estate planning, probate matters and real estate. Biography John W. Egan is a respected attorney and certified public accountant who concentrates his practice to assisting corporations, individuals and partnerships with their tax issues. He also represents and advises clients at McKenna Storer on matters related to estate planning and wills and trusts. Memberships American Bar Association ABA Taxation Section ABA Real Property Section ABA Probate and Trust Law Section Illinois CPA Society

Job Titles:

• Partner

Julie Ramson has practiced medical malpractice defense for over thirty years. Prior to that, she worked as a Registered Nurse for several years as a staff nurse, a Head Nurse for an Emergency Department, and a Medical ICU and then as a Director of Nursing for a small surgical hospital. Her background as a nurse in the medical field has provided a good understanding of the everyday practice of doctors, nurses and other health care workers in a variety of fields. It has also allowed her to develop a signature approach to medical trials and how to best explain the medical issues of a case in lay terms to a jury. Because of her ability to explain these issues clearly, she has an impressive trial success record. Biography Ms. Ramson has extensive experience representing physicians, nurses and other health care workers, along with professional corporations. Her clients appreciate her ability to explain the legal process to them and put them at ease in the litigation arena. Her experience in teaching and relating to patients as a nurse, a supervisor and a nursing director has given her the ability to translate complex medical cases into language readily understood by jurors and lead them to verdicts in her client's favor. When not working on a trial, Ms. Ramson enjoys traveling, reading and spending time with her family, especially her great nieces. She also has written a number of murder mysteries for publication on Amazon and has sold over 50,000 copies and has received honors for her writing. Julie Ramson successfully defends another medical malpractice defense case adding to a string of "not guilty" verdicts in her career. Ms Ramson focuses on defense litigation and professional liability within McKenna Storer. Ms. Ramson applied her signature approach and translated complex medical intricacies into an understandable story that resonated well with the jury. Her trademarks […]

Job Titles:

• Partner
• Partner at McKenna Storer May 15, 2018

Kristin Tauras has a diverse litigation background and an ability to formulate solutions to complex legal and factual issues. Clients appreciate that she can take the most esoteric legal issues, hone in on the essential elements to solve the problem and explain them in terms that are easy to understand. Biography Kristin concentrates her practice at McKenna on employment law, professional liability defense, commercial litigation and insurance coverage. She has represented clients in various state and federal courts as well as in hearings at the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, the Illinois Department of Human Rights and the Illinois Human Rights Commission. The varied scope of Kristin's practice and the extent of her skills and knowledge as an attorney go beyond litigation. A significant portion of her practice is devoted to representing small to medium sized companies as on-demand corporate counsel. In addition to representing companies in litigation, she also actively advises clients on employment practices and policies, contractual issues and how to avoid litigation. Memberships Federal Bar Association Illinois State Bar Association McHenry County and Lake County Bar Association Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel Co-Chair - Employment Law Committee 2009 - Present Speaker - IDC 2009 Fall Seminar Involvement as Amicus Curia on behalf of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel in support of the Tort Reform Act Illinois Appellate Lawyers Association Claims and Litigation Management (CLM) Alliance McKenna Storer is pleased to announce the naming of attorney Kristin Dvorsky Tauras as its newest partner. Kristin combines a client-oriented focus with highly developed

Job Titles:

• Associate
• Member of the Serbian Bar Association

Before joining McKenna Storer as an associate, Milena Crevar worked at a bankruptcy firm where she handled over 800+ clients in a variety of Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 matters. In addition, Milena attended various hearings, including 341 meetings with Trustees and creditors. Now, Milena concentrates her practice in toxic tort litigation, insurance defense, and transportation law. Milena is currently a member of the Serbian Bar Association and Illinois Defense Counsel Association. She received her undergraduate degree from The University of North Florida, where she received her B.A. in English Literature with a minor in Political Science. She is fluent in Serbian, Bosnian and Croatian.

Job Titles:

• Partner
• Civil and Criminal First Chair

Paul S. Steinhofer, a former prosecutor, has depth and experience in preparing and trying cases. His attention to detail and focus leave no stone unturned in his prosecution of his client's position. A seasoned advocate, clients of McKenna Storer appreciate that Paul makes client communication a priority. Paul is a gifted, first-chair litigator who also excels at educating his clients, so they can understand and make informed decisions about their cases. Biography Paul S. Steinhofer is an experienced civil and criminal first chair litigator who has tried numerous cases to verdict. His clients represent a broad spectrum of insurance companies and corporations for whom he has provided defense litigation representation in cases involving catastrophic loss, product liability, toxic tort litigation and construction litigation. One of his major clients is Siemens. Some of Paul's notable litigation successes have involved cases defending clients against claims of asbestos and benzene exposure. As a key member of the McKenna toxic tort practice, Paul conducts depositions throughout the United States in addition to participating in trials throughout Illinois and Indiana in both state and federal courts. When he is away from the office and the courtroom, Paul enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. Paul's commitment to his family includes coaching his children's sports teams and volunteering along with his wife in their church. Memberships Defense Research Institute Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel Lake County Indiana Bar Association Indiana State Bar Association Claims and Litigation Management Alliance Environmental and Toxic Tort Committee for the CLM

Job Titles:

• Partner

Robert Pisani has spent his entire professional career with McKenna Storer. Bob has established his reputation within the firm as the "go to" guy with all the latest developments in the Courts, and he has distinguished himself as the attorney for toxic tort clients who can manage complexities and achieve a good result. His knowledge of the law and advocacy skills that he has as a defense and toxic tort litigator have made him a valued part of the toxic tort team at McKenna, and has enabled him to successfully litigate in other areas of McKenna's practice. Biography Bob came to McKenna straight from law school and after two years as a law clerk to a Cook County Circuit Court Law Division judge. He has devoted his career to toxic tort litigation defense, insurance defense and business litigation. He represents some of the largest corporations in the country. He has represented silica companies for over 25 years and also has brought Kohl's Department Stores into the McKenna stable of clients, handling its Illinois litigation issues. He also serves as an arbitrator in Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist claims. He is a former co-chairman of the product liability committee of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel who also finds time to serve as a lecturer on topics such as toxic torts, tort reform, expert evidence, negotiations and civil procedure. His dedication to his profession and to serving the interests of the people and organizations his represents is recognized throughout the legal community and has allowed him to rise with the firm to the position of partner. Bob is a faithful Chicago Cubs and Wisconsin Badgers fan. In his spare time, he can be found riding his bike along the lakefront. He is dedicated to his family and is proud of the fact that both of his children chose to attend the University of Wisconsin. Memberships Illinois State Bar Association Defense Research Institute: Toxic Tort and Environmental Law and Industrywide Litigation Committees Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel: Co-chair Products Liability Committee Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Program

Sara Cook was the Managing Partner of McKenna Storer. Sara encouraged all attorneys and staff to be forward looking, especially by embracing technology to better serve the clients. She built a firm culture that focused on understanding each client first and providing creative cost-effective solutions and trusted counsel. Her affable demeanor belied the fact that she was a tough and client-oriented litigator and negotiator. Biography Ms. Cook was the managing partner of McKenna Storer while also remaining active representing clients in a number of areas of law, including transportation law, appellate practice and procedure, professional liability defense, insurance defense, banking, and complex commercial and business litigation. She was also involved in bankruptcy and bankruptcy litigation on behalf of debtors and creditors. Sara Cook began her career as an appellate attorney after serving as law clerk to the Honorable Mark McCormick, a justice of the Supreme Court of Iowa. After joining McKenna Storer, Sara proved herself to be a formidable adversary who litigated cases in state and federal trial courts and appellate courts throughout the country. She was also trained as a mediator for litigation matters. Business clients, particularly companies without an in-house legal staff, relied upon the general counsel services she provided to them. As managing partner at McKenna, Ms. Cook brought to the position the same creativity and attention to detail that clients had learned to appreciate about her. For example, she was among the first attorneys at McKenna to embrace the use of computers because she saw the important role they would eventually play in the practice of law. Her fellow attorneys and clients appreciated the humor, practicality and passion she brought to the practice of law. Outside of the office, Ms. Cook was a proud and devoted parent of five sons, including two sets of twins, all of whom are now grown. She was active in the community as a CASA volunteer working with foster children and also gave freely of her time to her church. Ms. Cook was a passionate gardener who described the flowers she grew as "an exercise in humility." When she was not tending to her flowers, Ms. Cook enjoyed painting and traveling. Memberships Federal Seventh Circuit Bar Association McHenry County Bar Association Small Claims Mediation Program, panel mediator Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Industry

Job Titles:

• Partner

Thomas F. Lucas is a veteran insurance coverage attorney who has a broad base of experience in every type of coverage issue. His vast knowledge of insurance law has made him an invaluable resource for insurers who need quick and "spot on" answers to their insurance dilemmas. Clients appreciate his responsiveness and ability to move cases quickly to a successful conclusion.

Job Titles:

• Partner

Thomas Hayes has devoted 26 of his 34 years as a practicing attorney to defending toxic torts. He brings an unparalleled dedication to the interests of the clients he represents in toxic tort litigation defense at McKenna Storer. Clients benefit from the skills and knowledge he has developed representing asbestos and toxic tort clients both as an inside attorney for an insurer and now as a litigator representing defendants. Biography Tom offers toxic tort litigation clients of McKenna Storer more than 25 years of experience representing manufacturers, contractors, distributors and premises owners in the complex and challenging area of asbestos litigation defense in Illinois and Missouri. He was national counsel for an insured of Kemper Insurance and represented them in asbestos litigation for 11 years. Mr. Hayes has been a practicing trial attorney for more than 30 years. Clients and colleagues describe Tom as hardworking, responsive, honest and straightforward. It should come as no surprise that he adheres to a "give them the straight answer" approach to the practice of law. His strong work ethic was instilled in him by his rigorous training at the United States Military Academy at West Point from which he graduated in 1978. He then served for 22 years as an officer in the United States Army. He held the rank of Lieutenant Colonel when he retired from the Reserves in 2001. Tom is married to his high school sweetheart. They are blessed with two adult children. Outside of the office, he has been active in service to his community first as a trustee for the Village of Arlington Heights for 22 years and as its president/mayor since May 2013. Even with all of his professional, church, and community commitments, Tom still finds time to run marathons and spend time with his family, including his two grandchildren. Memberships Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel Defense Research Institute Association of Graduates - United States Military Academy Member of High School District 214 Alumni Advisory Council

Job Titles:

• Partner

Timothy J. Murtaugh III brings a wealth of knowledge and skills acquired over the course of his long career to assist clients with business, real estate, estate, tax and probate issues that individuals and small businesses face every day. Clients appreciate his ability to advise them about complex legal issues with practical and cost effective solutions.