|
MADISON COUNTY
ST. LOUIS
|
New Partner Onboard: SST Expands Westward with Seattle Office
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC is pleased to announce the opening of its West Coast office in Seattle, Washington with the addition of Scott Wood as equity partner. Attorneys in SST’s new office defend a variety of civil claims in Washington, Oregon and California. In addition to a large toxic tort practice, the Seattle office will further expand SST’s legal services in the construction, employment, cannabis, sexual abuse and title issue practice areas. Most importantly, SST’s West Coast office has extensive trial experience, further deepening SST’s current trial bench who were involved in back-to-back trials in Cook County, Illinois at the end of 2021.
As a mid-sized law firm with a national reach, SST will continue to offer the personalized service and adaptability our clients have come to expect, along with the support and broader resources of a larger firm.
“At SST, we think having a national presence is important, but we are not expanding simply for the sake of growth. Our primary reason for expansion is to find the right people to serve our clients. We believe we have that with this group. The West Coast team shares the mindset of servicing clients in a flexible and evolving manner. This synergy made the decision to expand an easy one to make,” says Doug Sinars, SST’s managing partner.
Scott Wood, managing partner of the Seattle office, shares the enthusiasm: “We are excited to join SST and provide another level of practice flexibility to our clients. Joining SST makes sense because we all believe businesses should be built on relationships. We agree that our clients, be it a family-owned business or a Fortune 500 Company, receive the same level of expertise and attentiveness.”
In addition to SST’s new equity partner, attorneys James Hicks (partner), Duncan Lemmon (partner), Zackary Paal (partner), Howard (Terry) Hall (of counsel), Melissa Roeder (of counsel), Sydney Sullivan (associate) and Joshua Tinajero (associate) will also join the firm.
As a mid-sized law firm with a national reach, SST will continue to offer the personalized service and adaptability our clients have come to expect, along with the support and broader resources of a larger firm.
“At SST, we think having a national presence is important, but we are not expanding simply for the sake of growth. Our primary reason for expansion is to find the right people to serve our clients. We believe we have that with this group. The West Coast team shares the mindset of servicing clients in a flexible and evolving manner. This synergy made the decision to expand an easy one to make,” says Doug Sinars, SST’s managing partner.
Scott Wood, managing partner of the Seattle office, shares the enthusiasm: “We are excited to join SST and provide another level of practice flexibility to our clients. Joining SST makes sense because we all believe businesses should be built on relationships. We agree that our clients, be it a family-owned business or a Fortune 500 Company, receive the same level of expertise and attentiveness.”
In addition to SST’s new equity partner, attorneys James Hicks (partner), Duncan Lemmon (partner), Zackary Paal (partner), Howard (Terry) Hall (of counsel), Melissa Roeder (of counsel), Sydney Sullivan (associate) and Joshua Tinajero (associate) will also join the firm.
Simon Baker Becomes the Newest SST Partner
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC is proud to announce Simon Baker as the firm’s newest partner. Simon has been with SST since its inception in March 2016 and has become an integral part of the firm. SST is a Midwest-based firm with a national reach specializing in defending a variety of civil claims.
Simon defends both domestic and international product and equipment manufacturers, premise owners, employers, outside contractors, and suppliers in general liability, mass toxic tort and product liability cases, including multi-party personal injury claims involving exposure to asbestos, benzene, mold and Legionella.
“Not only is Simon an excellent attorney, his humility and down-to-earth nature help him connect with everyone he interacts with," said Doug Sinars, SST’s managing partner.
Simon received his Juris Doctor summa cum laude from DePaul College of Law (2012), where he was awarded four CALI awards and the Chancellor’s Award for Service, and obtained an LLB degree in law from the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England (2007). Simon previously was Senior Law Clerk to the Honorable Diane J. Larsen, Circuit Court of Cook County, Chancery Division where he authored draft opinions on a wide range of cases.
Simon defends both domestic and international product and equipment manufacturers, premise owners, employers, outside contractors, and suppliers in general liability, mass toxic tort and product liability cases, including multi-party personal injury claims involving exposure to asbestos, benzene, mold and Legionella.
“Not only is Simon an excellent attorney, his humility and down-to-earth nature help him connect with everyone he interacts with," said Doug Sinars, SST’s managing partner.
Simon received his Juris Doctor summa cum laude from DePaul College of Law (2012), where he was awarded four CALI awards and the Chancellor’s Award for Service, and obtained an LLB degree in law from the University of East Anglia in Norwich, England (2007). Simon previously was Senior Law Clerk to the Honorable Diane J. Larsen, Circuit Court of Cook County, Chancery Division where he authored draft opinions on a wide range of cases.
Associate Vincenzo Chimera to Speak at HarrisMartin's Midwest Asbestos Litigation Conference
On September 21, 2021, SST Associate Vincenzo Chimera will be discussing issues in employee cases at HarrisMartin's Midwest Asbestos Litigation Conference. The Illinois Workers’ Compensation and Occupational Diseases Act for more than 80 years provided an exclusive remedy for employees who contract latent asbestos diseases and who seek compensation against their employers. Recently, Illinois enacted an exception allowing individuals whose workers’ compensation claims are barred by any period of repose in the Occupational Diseases Act to bring a civil tort action against their employers. Illinois employers, in such situations, now face the prospect of unlimited damages in cases they believed were covered under workers’ compensation. Vincenzo's discussion will include analysis of constitutional challenges to this change in law, jurisdictional issues concerning choice of law as to workers’ compensation statutes, and trial strategy in employee cases. Register here.
SST Welcomes Partners David Nilles and Amy Callaghan
David Nilles and Amy Callaghan have joined Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska as partners in its Chicago office. Prior to joining SST, Dave and Amy were partners with the late Edward Matushek at Matushek LLC. Welcome Dave and Amy!
Dave has more than 30 years of legal experience handling civil jury trials and appeals. He has a significant background defending medical malpractice claims and has defended clients in cases involving product liability, aviation law and air crashes, nursing home negligence, construction liability, asbestos personal injury and other casualty claims. This includes successfully trying several matters to verdict in Cook County, Illinois.
Amy focuses her practice on defense of toxic tort/environmental, product liability, construction negligence, construction defect and general negligence claims. She is adept at working and coordinating with insurers, insureds, in-house and national counsel in developing early defense strategies to achieve successful resolution of cases. Her experience includes defending clients through mediation, at pre-trial conferences and negotiating settlements.
Dave has more than 30 years of legal experience handling civil jury trials and appeals. He has a significant background defending medical malpractice claims and has defended clients in cases involving product liability, aviation law and air crashes, nursing home negligence, construction liability, asbestos personal injury and other casualty claims. This includes successfully trying several matters to verdict in Cook County, Illinois.
Amy focuses her practice on defense of toxic tort/environmental, product liability, construction negligence, construction defect and general negligence claims. She is adept at working and coordinating with insurers, insureds, in-house and national counsel in developing early defense strategies to achieve successful resolution of cases. Her experience includes defending clients through mediation, at pre-trial conferences and negotiating settlements.
SST Welcomes New Partner Randall Smith
This month, we welcome our newest partner, Randall Smith, to the Chicago office. Randy brings 35 years of experience defending claims in the areas of product liability, toxic tort , premises liability, automobile negligence, dram shop and personal injury. He currently manages the asbestos docket for a Fortune 500 Company for all cases filed in Cook County and Central Illinois. Randy has successfully tried seven jury trials to verdict in Cook and the Collar Counties.
During law school, he received the American Jurisprudence Award in Torts. As an attorney, Randy has received the highest rating AV-Preeminent (5.0 out of 5) from his peers, as published by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory.
Outside of the courtroom, Randy enjoys spending time with his family and volunteering with his church. His favorite restaurant spot is Gene & Georgetti Steakhouse, located in River North and he is an avid Cubs fan.
Dedicated to his faith and eager to lend a helping hand in his community, he and a friend helped establish the Parish Educational Endowment Fund through St. Paul of the Cross Parish. This fund allows the availability of Catholic education to all families and provides tuition and need-based scholarships to grade school students. Randy is also a mentor for the Advocacy Mentor Program at Loyola University of Chicago Law School.
Please join us in welcoming Randy to SST!
To view Randy’s full profile click here.
During law school, he received the American Jurisprudence Award in Torts. As an attorney, Randy has received the highest rating AV-Preeminent (5.0 out of 5) from his peers, as published by the Martindale-Hubbell Law Directory.
Outside of the courtroom, Randy enjoys spending time with his family and volunteering with his church. His favorite restaurant spot is Gene & Georgetti Steakhouse, located in River North and he is an avid Cubs fan.
Dedicated to his faith and eager to lend a helping hand in his community, he and a friend helped establish the Parish Educational Endowment Fund through St. Paul of the Cross Parish. This fund allows the availability of Catholic education to all families and provides tuition and need-based scholarships to grade school students. Randy is also a mentor for the Advocacy Mentor Program at Loyola University of Chicago Law School.
Please join us in welcoming Randy to SST!
To view Randy’s full profile click here.
SST is a Proud Sponsor of DRI’s Women in the Law Seminar
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is a sponsor at this year’s Women in the Law Seminar, taking place virtually on April 28-30, 2021. This event titled, “Own Your Worth in Law and Life” will cover topics such as, “how to come through crisis stronger; how artificial intelligence is creating new areas of legal exposure; how adding diversity to the trial team improves overall performance and increases client satisfaction; how to silence your inner critic and address anxiety in the legal practice; how to avoid gender bias in settlement negotiations; and more.”
Click here for more information and to register for the seminar.
Click here for more information and to register for the seminar.
Celebrating 5 Years of Business! A Message from Our Leadership
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska was established on March 4, 2016 as a boutique toxic tort firm. Since opening their doors, SST has grown significantly and diversified its practice. While not every step has been easy, the expansion into new worlds has been worth the effort. Likewise, the addition of promising young talent to our established core of veteran leadership has engendered a sense of collaboration and growth. The most important thing we all have in common is understanding that “[g]reat things in business are never done by one person.” – Steve Jobs.
Founding Partner Doug Sinars: “One thing that has influenced our growth is that we look to hire attorneys that we see as potential future partners. Unlike traditional law firm models, our model recognizes attorneys for working as a team to do what is best for our clients and the firm. We invest in our employees because we want them to invest in the firm. We have grown quickly over the last 5 years and expect to expand to another market soon.”
Founding Partner Megan Slowikowski: “We stress customer service, from the staff to the attorney level. This is a relationship business where we give the same level of expertise and attentiveness to all of our clients, from family-owned businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Everyone knows they play an important role.”
Founding Partner Jim Tomaska: “Our associates get great opportunities to develop their litigation skills from day 1 because we recruit and hire litigators, whether their experience comes from the public or private sector. We are a relatively young firm, and we are here to stay.”
Thank you to our clients and our team who have made it all possible.
Founding Partner Doug Sinars: “One thing that has influenced our growth is that we look to hire attorneys that we see as potential future partners. Unlike traditional law firm models, our model recognizes attorneys for working as a team to do what is best for our clients and the firm. We invest in our employees because we want them to invest in the firm. We have grown quickly over the last 5 years and expect to expand to another market soon.”
Founding Partner Megan Slowikowski: “We stress customer service, from the staff to the attorney level. This is a relationship business where we give the same level of expertise and attentiveness to all of our clients, from family-owned businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Everyone knows they play an important role.”
Founding Partner Jim Tomaska: “Our associates get great opportunities to develop their litigation skills from day 1 because we recruit and hire litigators, whether their experience comes from the public or private sector. We are a relatively young firm, and we are here to stay.”
Thank you to our clients and our team who have made it all possible.
SST Partner Named to 2021 Illinois Super Lawyers List
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is pleased to announce that Partner James Kasper has been named to the 2021 Illinois Super Lawyers list. This is his second year in a row receiving this honor. The research team at Super Lawyers use a multi-phase process including independent research, peer nominations and peer evaluations to make their annual selections. Each candidate is evaluated on 12 indicators of peer recognition and professional achievement. No more than five percent of lawyers in the state are selected to receive this honor.
Congratulations, Jamie!
Congratulations, Jamie!
SST Partner Joins the International Association of Defense Counsel
SST Partner Carolyn Husmann has joined the International Association of Defense Counsel, an invitation-only, peer-reviewed association of approximately 2,500 members. Members of the IADC are leading corporate and insurance defense attorneys and insurance executives from large, mid-size, and small companies. The IADC provides educational opportunities and resources in addition to a strong global network for members to develop valuable relationships.
Carolyn says, “ I am both humbled and excited by the opportunity to get involved in such a distinguished organization.”
Carolyn says, “ I am both humbled and excited by the opportunity to get involved in such a distinguished organization.”
SST Welcomes New Partner in 2021
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is pleased to announce that William Alzugaray has been promoted to Partner in our Chicago office. Will joined the SST team as an experienced litigator in March 2017, one year after the firm was founded, and has played an important role in SST’s rapid growth.
Will is a versatile trial attorney with a solid record of litigation success and experience in various facets of the law, including many types of transportation and toxic tort claims. Thanks to a lifelong enthusiasm for mechanical fabrication and by working at his family’s automotive restoration business, Will is particularly skilled in cases involving industrial settings and mechanical work. This type of hands-on, technical experience also allows Will to efficiently articulate the techniques, tools, and processes at issue in a relatable way and in the light most favorable to the defense.
Please join us in congratulating Will!
Will is a versatile trial attorney with a solid record of litigation success and experience in various facets of the law, including many types of transportation and toxic tort claims. Thanks to a lifelong enthusiasm for mechanical fabrication and by working at his family’s automotive restoration business, Will is particularly skilled in cases involving industrial settings and mechanical work. This type of hands-on, technical experience also allows Will to efficiently articulate the techniques, tools, and processes at issue in a relatable way and in the light most favorable to the defense.
Please join us in congratulating Will!
Our St. Louis Office has Moved
Update your address books, we've moved!
Due to firm growth, we are thrilled to announce that our St. Louis office has now moved up to Suite 2950.
Get ready for Perrin Conferences 2020
Please join us at Perrin Conferences National Construction Litigation Conference that will be held virtually on November 12-13, 2020. This conference will focus on the status of construction defect litigation, construction technology, handling claims, analysis of PL and GL, ethical issues and other relevant topics from a variety of perspectives. We hope you can make it. Learn more and download a copy of the agenda here.
Congratulations Rebecca
Super Lawyers Recognizes Two SST Attorneys in 2020
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC is pleased to announce that Partner James Kasper has been named to the 2020 Illinois Super Lawyers List. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in each state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor. In addition, Associate Michael Murphy has been named to the 2020 Illinois Rising Stars list. No more than 2.5 percent of the lawyers in the state are selected to receive this honor.
SST Names Three New Partners
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is pleased to announce the promotion of Jaclyn Kostich, Katelyn Ofenloch and Kevin Horan to Partner in our Chicago office. SST has grown significantly since its inception in March 2016. Starting with 11 attorneys, SST now employs over 30 attorneys in Chicago, St. Louis and Dallas. The elevation of Jackie, Kate and Kevin marks the first time SST has promoted an associate to partner. Speaking on behalf of the three founding partners, Managing Partner Doug Sinars said, “We are very proud to be promoting from within and look forward to the future. Kate, Kevin and Jackie have shown that they are talented litigators. They are dedicated to our team and have contributed substantially to our growth as a firm.”
Jackie has diverse experience with complex litigation matters, including medical/professional malpractice, personal injury, mass tort and other environmental claims. Most recently, she obtained summary judgment in a civil rights case brought by a prisoner asserting a 1983 claim seeking $2M from an oral surgeon.
Kate has extensive experience defending product liability, mass tort, construction and general negligence claims. Earlier this year, Kate was instrumental in the firm’s success on summary judgment in McLean County, Illinois where the court applied McKinney v. Hobart Brothers Co. in holding that the plaintiff failed to present evidence of any quantifiable exposure to asbestos from work with the client’s equipment.
Kevin has significant litigation and trial experience in both the public and private sectors, having represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a variety of practice areas including tort, commercial and professional liability matters. In October 2019, Kevin won summary judgment in Iowa on behalf of an insulation contractor in an asbestos case, successfully arguing that the court should interpret a 2017 Iowa statute in the insulation contractor’s favor. This decision is currently before the Iowa Supreme Court.
Jackie has diverse experience with complex litigation matters, including medical/professional malpractice, personal injury, mass tort and other environmental claims. Most recently, she obtained summary judgment in a civil rights case brought by a prisoner asserting a 1983 claim seeking $2M from an oral surgeon.
Kate has extensive experience defending product liability, mass tort, construction and general negligence claims. Earlier this year, Kate was instrumental in the firm’s success on summary judgment in McLean County, Illinois where the court applied McKinney v. Hobart Brothers Co. in holding that the plaintiff failed to present evidence of any quantifiable exposure to asbestos from work with the client’s equipment.
Kevin has significant litigation and trial experience in both the public and private sectors, having represented both plaintiffs and defendants in a variety of practice areas including tort, commercial and professional liability matters. In October 2019, Kevin won summary judgment in Iowa on behalf of an insulation contractor in an asbestos case, successfully arguing that the court should interpret a 2017 Iowa statute in the insulation contractor’s favor. This decision is currently before the Iowa Supreme Court.
SST to Sponsor DRI's Women in the Law Seminar
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is a Silver Sponsor at this year's Women in the Law Seminar at The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch in Scottsdale, AZ. On January 22-24, 2020, this conference will "gather outstanding women from law firms and corporate legal departments around the country to provide you with practical advice, excellent programming on aspects of the law that span all substantive areas, and the opportunity to build lasting relationships with the women you encounter."
Partner Anna O'Connor Spoke at Lynn Sage Cancer Research Luncheon
|
On October 25, 2019, SST Partner Anna O’Connor was one of two keynote speakers at the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation’s Fall Benefit Luncheon, where over 800 people attended to raise money for the fight against breast cancer, raising over $925,000 in one day. She spoke about her strength and resolve as a breast cancer survivor and we are proud to have her as a part of our firm.
|
Super Lawyers Recognizes SST Missouri Attorney in 2019
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC is pleased to announce that Partner Matthew Fields has been named to the 2019 Missouri/Kansas Super Lawyers List in the area of Class Actions/Mass Torts. Each year, no more than five percent of the lawyers in each state are selected by the research team at Super Lawyers to receive this honor.
SST Sponsors Life Span’s Annual Light to Life Benefit
Life Span's 2nd Annual Light to Life Benefit was a success!
Life Span's services help thousands of women and their children start new lives free from fear of violence. SST is proud to be a sponsor of such a great organization.
To learn more about Life Span go to life-span.org.
Life Span's services help thousands of women and their children start new lives free from fear of violence. SST is proud to be a sponsor of such a great organization.
To learn more about Life Span go to life-span.org.
Partner Megan Slowikowski Spoke at Perrin's National Asbestos Litigation Conference
On September 9-11, 2019, partner Megan Slowikowski spoke at Perrin Conferences’ National Asbestos Litigation Conference at the Fairmont San Francisco Hotel. This marks the tenth anniversary of the three-day conference which provides attendees with a deeper understanding of the trends currently driving asbestos litigation and the impact these trends may have on future cases.
2019 CLM Midwest Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC associate, Greta Lloyd, presented at the CLM Midwest conference debating the potential implications of autonomous vehicles. Greta Lloyd was joined by claims counsel for DWF Claims, Alison Finn, expert economist at Roux Associates, Ryan Stifter, and associate at Rynearson, Suess, Schnurbusch & Champion, L.L.C., David Renovitch. Their presentation was titled, “I, Autonomous Vehicle: When and How this Statement Could Disrupt the Insurance Industry” and outlined the economic, regulatory, legal, and claims challenges anticipated to arise with the evolution of autonomous vehicles. #CLMMW
SST Sponsors Make-a-Wish Benefit
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska LLC is proud to co-sponsor the Women Wine & Wishes event, benefiting Make-a-Wish Illinois! The successful event surpassed last year’s total by raising over $100,000 in one evening! The impact of last night will help provide boundless hope for Illinois children with life threatening illnesses by granting their wishes and dreams. Such a truly remarkable event and we are glad to be a part of it.
Welcome to Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska
We are excited to welcome to the firm our newest team members:
Missouri
Chicago
Missouri
- Victoria Iken – Of Counsel
- Jordan Panger – Associate
Chicago
- Sarah Costa – Associate
- Stacey Kim – Associate
- Jonathan Stone – Associate
Midwest-based Civil Defense Firm Changes
Name to Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska
We are pleased to announce that the firm led by Managing Partner Doug Sinars has changed its name to Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska.
The firm’s name change recognizes Megan Slowikowski’s and Jim Tomaska’s significant contributions to the firm along with the outstanding results they have achieved for our clients. We look forward to continuing to work as a team to provide clients with creative and cost-effective solutions. Our commitment to sound judgment and practical solutions remains a top priority for our firm as a whole.
SST handles the national and Midwest defense and trial of both general negligence and tort claims. With thirty lawyers devoted to litigation, we have decades of experience defending these claims. We represent a broad spectrum of clients, including product manufacturers, premise owners, distributors, contractors and professionals.
The firm’s name change recognizes Megan Slowikowski’s and Jim Tomaska’s significant contributions to the firm along with the outstanding results they have achieved for our clients. We look forward to continuing to work as a team to provide clients with creative and cost-effective solutions. Our commitment to sound judgment and practical solutions remains a top priority for our firm as a whole.
SST handles the national and Midwest defense and trial of both general negligence and tort claims. With thirty lawyers devoted to litigation, we have decades of experience defending these claims. We represent a broad spectrum of clients, including product manufacturers, premise owners, distributors, contractors and professionals.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Sponsored Perrin's Cutting-Edge Issues in Asbestos Litigation Conference
Another engaging conference in Beverly Hills in March 2019. For information on the agenda, please click here.
National FETTI Annual Conference
Congratulations to our own James Kasper, Greta Lloyd and Senior Consultant at ESI Jason Babcock Ph.D., for a great presentation on the scientific literature regarding the safety of crumb-rubber artificial turf and the litigation that has arisen from the controversy.
SST Sponsored and Participated at the National FETTI Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska once again sponsored the National FETTI Annual Conference, which took place September 26th to 28th in Chicago. The conference covered a wide range of evolving environmental and toxic tort issues.
In addition, SST partner James Kasper and associate Greta Lloyd presented at this year's conference. James and Greta were joined by Jason Babcock Ph.D., senior consultant at ESI, for their presentation "Is a Chemical Innocent Until Proven Guilty? The Artificial Turf Debate." They addressed the recent debate involving crumb-rubber artificial turf, the scientific literature regarding the safety of this turf, and the litigation that has arisen from the controversy.
For more information, please contact James Kasper.
In addition, SST partner James Kasper and associate Greta Lloyd presented at this year's conference. James and Greta were joined by Jason Babcock Ph.D., senior consultant at ESI, for their presentation "Is a Chemical Innocent Until Proven Guilty? The Artificial Turf Debate." They addressed the recent debate involving crumb-rubber artificial turf, the scientific literature regarding the safety of this turf, and the litigation that has arisen from the controversy.
For more information, please contact James Kasper.
SST Sponsored Perrin's Asbestos Litigation Conference
We was a proud sponsor of Perrin's National Asbestos Litigation Conference in San Francisco. The conference took place in October 2018. For more information, please click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Joined 2018 Race Judicata
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska participated in Race Judicata 2018, a 5k walk/run that benefitted the Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Foundation. We had a great time hosting friends and family at the SR tent for food and drinks after the race.
Patrick Garvey and Matt Vlasman Join SST
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska has proudly welcomed two attorneys to the firm in the summer of 2018.
Patrick Garvey brings a wealth of defense experience to SST, having defended a wide variety of premises, product, and toxic tort liability claims throughout his career.
Matt Vlasman joins as an associate. Matt focuses on the defense of product liability and occupational injury claims.
Patrick Garvey brings a wealth of defense experience to SST, having defended a wide variety of premises, product, and toxic tort liability claims throughout his career.
Matt Vlasman joins as an associate. Matt focuses on the defense of product liability and occupational injury claims.
Two Years in Business
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska celebrates its second year in business. A big thank you to all who have helped make this possible.
Adjusters Association of Chicago Golf Outing
Adjusters Association of Chicago Golf Outing at Old Oak Country Club in Homer Glen, IL. Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska sponsored the 6th Hole of the outing. The event is an opportunity to raise funds and give back to the community and for camaraderie among peers.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Sponsored Filament Theatre Event
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is excited to announce its sponsorship of Filament Theatre's Garden Party on July 12, 2018. Filament Theatre is a non-profit organization that creates theatrical programming, camps, and classes to inspire young people and their communities. The Garden Party celebrated the Theatre and raise money for its causes. For additional information, please click here.
SST Participated in Community Service Day with "Women Everywhere"
In June 2018, the women of Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska volunteered for Community Service Day with Women Everywhere: Partners in Service Project. This volunteer organization coordinates various activities in the Chicagoland area for women and children in need. For more information, please click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Sponsored Make-A-Wish Illinois Women's Network Event
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska was a proud sponsor "Women, Wine & Wishes," an event where the Women's Network of Make-A-Wish Illinois annually honors women leaders in our community who have made an impact on local wishes. For more information, please click here.
Partner Megan Slowikowski Speaks on Chicago Bar Association's "Women in the Law" Panel
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska partner Megan Slowikowski was recently one of four panelists at the Chicago Bar Association's "Standing Up and Out as Women in the Law" panel. Megan was joined by Rachel Johnson of the Chicago Alliance Against Sexual Exploitation, Jennifer Rosato Perea, Dean of the DePaul College of Law, and Kristin Barnett, President of the Women's Bar Association of Illinois. The panelists offered insights on how to empower women in the legal field and how to rise through the professional ranks in the competitive Chicago legal market.
SST a Sponsor of Annual Shamrock Scramble in St. Louis
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska was proud to sponsor 2018's Shamrock Scramble in St. Louis.
All proceeds from this charity golf event will help support various local families battling cancer and other diseases. For more information, or to help this cause, please contact Matthew Fields.
All proceeds from this charity golf event will help support various local families battling cancer and other diseases. For more information, or to help this cause, please contact Matthew Fields.
SST Sponsored the Women's Bar Association of Illinois' 19th Annual Judicial Reception
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska sponsored this Judicial Reception held by the Women's Bar Association of Illinois (WBAI) on March 1, 2018.
The event took place at the Chicago Cultural Center and honored Judge Clare Elizabeth McWilliams, Judge Terrence J. Lavin, and Judge Virginia M. Kendall. This annual reception honors the judiciary and provides guests an opportunity to meet and socialize with state and federal judges.
For more information, please click here.
The event took place at the Chicago Cultural Center and honored Judge Clare Elizabeth McWilliams, Judge Terrence J. Lavin, and Judge Virginia M. Kendall. This annual reception honors the judiciary and provides guests an opportunity to meet and socialize with state and federal judges.
For more information, please click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Opens New St. Louis Office
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is excited to announce the opening of their new St. Louis office. The office is located at 800 Market Street, Suite 1550, in downtown St. Louis and is the firm's third, following locations in Chicago, Illinois and Edwardsville, Illinois. The new office is headed by veteran litigator Matthew Fields.
SST Welcomes New Partners Matthew Fields and Lew Miltenberger
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is pleased to announce that Matthew Fields and Lew Miltenberger have joined the firm as partners. Matt will head Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska's new St. Louis office while Lew is licensed in various states including Illinois, Missouri, and Texas. Matthew and Lew have tried numerous cases to verdict and bring decades of experience in a variety of areas to the firm.
For more information on our two newest partners, please visit their biographies.
For more information on our two newest partners, please visit their biographies.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Proud to Sponsor 2018 Perrin Asbestos Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is proud to announce that we will once again sponsor Perrin's Asbestos Litigation Conference. The conference will take place March 8-9, 2018 in Beverly Hills, California. For more information, please click here.
SST Welcomes Cary Press, Christa Pantaleoni, Paul Connery, and Thomas Hardiman
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska continues to grow, and proudly welcomes these new Associate Attorneys to our team.
Associate Kevin Horan Speaks at Chicago Bar Association
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska associate Kevin Horan recently presented to the Chicago Bar Association’s Young Lawyers Section Career Assistance Committee. Horan and fellow presenter Ari Telisman of the Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission addressed emerging issues in attorney discipline and professional responsibility which face Illinois practitioners. The presentation, entitled “Staying Out of Trouble: How to Recognize and Confront Ethical Issues that Arise in the Legal Profession,” was offered as part of a series of continuing legal education seminars for CBA members. Attorneys and malpractice insurers should be aware of emerging trends in the regulation of the legal profession and how best to address the challenges of a constantly-evolving legal marketplace.
For more information, please contact Kevin Horan at khoran@sinarslaw.com.
For more information, please contact Kevin Horan at khoran@sinarslaw.com.
Associate Kelly Olivier Joins SST
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska welcomes Kelly Olivier as an associate in September 2017. Kelly brings a diverse litigation background to the team.
SST Sponsored Perrin Conferences' Asbestos Litigation Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska was a proud sponsor of Perrin Conferences' Asbestos Litigation Conference: A National Overview and Outlook, which took place September 25-27, 2017 in San Francisco. For more information click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Participated in Race Judicata 2017
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska participated in Race Judicata on September 14, 2017. Race Judicata is a 5K Run/Walk benefiting Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Foundation, an organization of volunteer attorneys who donate free legal services to low-income Chicagoans. Visit Race Judicata 2017
SST Continues to Expand with the Addition of New Partner, Anna Gonis O’Connor
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is thrilled to announce that Anna Gonis O’Connor has joined the firm as a partner. Anna gained significant trial experience through her work as an Assistant State’s Attorney in the Complex Litigation Section of the Civil Actions Bureau. She also served as a senior member of the national coordinating counsel for a Fortune 500 company, gaining experience in determining the best defense strategy for asbestos and other product liability claims
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Welcomes Kevin Horan
We are pleased to announce that Kevin Horan joined our team as an associate in June 2017.
Kevin Sheehan Joins Our Team
Kevin Sheehan has become our newest associate on our growing team.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Welcomes a New Partner — James Kasper
James Kasper is the newest partner to join Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska. With more than 13 years of trial experience, he has successfully defended numerous cases throughout Illinois and Indiana, on both the plaintiff and defense side.
SST Welcomes Tyler Lindberg and William Alzugaray
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska welcomes attorneys Tyler Lindberg and William Alzugaray as associates in March 2017.
SST Sponsors Perrin Conferences' Asbestos Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is a proud sponsor of Perrin Conferences' Cutting-Edge Issues in Asbestos Litigation Conference, which took place March 6-7, 2017 in Beverly Hills. For more information click here.
SST Welcomes Michael P. Murphy
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska welcomes Michael P. Murphy as an associate in January 2017.
Daniela Stojkova Joins Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska
The entire team at Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is delighted to welcome Daniela Stojkova to the firm. Ms. Stojkova joins the firm as an associate, and will focus her practice on product liability, mass torts, and occupational injury claims, including asbestos personal injury litigation.
SST Sponsors the National FETTI Annual Conference in Chicago
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is a sponsor of The National FETTI Annual Conference which was held in Chicago on September 21-23, 2016. It is a world-class seminar covering a broad range of environmental and toxic tort issues. For more information click here
Jaclyn Kostich and Katelyn Ofenloch Join Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska welcomed Jaclyn Kostich and Katelyn Ofenloch as associates in Summer 2016.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Participated in Race Judicata 2016
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska participated in Race Judicata on September 15, 2016. Race Judicata is a 5K Run/Walk benefiting Chicago Volunteer Legal Services Foundation, an organization of volunteer attorneys who donate free legal services to low-income Chicagoans. For more information click here.
SST Sponsors Perrin Conferences' Asbestos Litigation Conference
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska is a proud sponsor of Perrin Conferences' Asbestos Litigation Conference: A National Overview and Outlook, which took place September 12-14, 2016 in San Francisco. For more information click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Attorneys Recognized as Emerging Lawyers
Law Bulletin's Leading Lawyers Division has identified Megan Slowikowski and Katie Griffin as Emerging Lawyers. They have been recognized by their peers as the top lawyers in Illinois who are age 40 or younger and have proven themselves professional, ethical and experienced. This distinction is given to less than 2% of all lawyers licensed in Illinois.
SST Volunteers with Women Everywhere
In June, the women of Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska volunteered for Community Service Day with Women Everywhere: Partners In Service Project, a volunteer collective in the Chicagoland area that coordinates activities on behalf of women and children in need. Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska spent the day with GirlForward, a non-profit organization that provides adolescent refugee girls with individual mentorship, educational programs and leadership opportunities. For more information click here.
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska Partners Publish Sports-Related Brain Injury Article
Sinars Slowikowski Tomaska partners Owen Blood and John-Michael Porretta authored an article about the legal consequences of sports-related brain injuries. The article, which was published in the June 2016 Illinois Bar Journal, Vol. 104 No. 6, is titled: “Litigating Sports Brain Injuries: The New Ball Game”. As sports-related concussions (and other brain injuries) become more of a public concern, the number of personal injury lawsuits filed by plaintiffs is sure to increase. Defense counsel and insurers should be familiar with all areas of this impending litigation including the science and potential defenses.
For more information, please contact Owen Blood at oblood@sinarslaw.com or John-Michael Porretta at jmporretta@sinarslaw.com.
For more information, please contact Owen Blood at oblood@sinarslaw.com or John-Michael Porretta at jmporretta@sinarslaw.com.