Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP‘s Chicago-based group is geared to support employers and ERISA fiduciaries in class actions encompassing ERISA plan fees, reimbursement rights, pension overpayments, ERISA estoppel, and ESOPs. The practice deeply benefits from co-chair Craig Martin’s top-tier trial track record, with experience appearing as lead counsel in high-stakes trials in state and federal courts for breach of fiduciary duty disputes. Co-chair Amanda Amert represents clients at both trial and appellate levels, and is adept at handling individual and class-action lawsuits. Adding further weight to the team, Kimberly Jones defends fiduciaries in class actions related to retirement plans and retiree health and death benefits. LaRue Robinson stands out for being active in ERISA litigation and investigations.
Legal 500 Editorial commentary
Testimonials
Collated independently by Legal 500 research team.
‘Kimberly Jones is excellent; I think it is difficult to find ERISA lawyers who are also good litigators. Kim rolls up her sleeves and is heavily involved, which I appreciate. I have found her also to be an exceptional communicator, and she has done a great job in briefings to company executives.’
‘Amanda Amert has a superior, and uncommon ability, to transform complex law and facts into understandable concepts. She's the best of the best in her field.’
‘Amanda Amert is a true subject matter expert and has an appealing presentation style. This combination makes her a formidable opponent. Additionally, Amanda is very practical, which further increases her value to in-house counsel and businesses who rely on her counsel.’
Key clients
- Northwestern University
- The Northern Trust Company
- Univar Solutions
- Former Directors and Officers of Appvion Corporation
- Aon Investments USA, Inc.
- Olin Corporation
- Northrop Grumman Corporation
- University of Chicago
Work highlights
Represented Northwestern University as trial counsel in a case about investment vehicles for retirement plans affecting corporate America, specifically, that pose a substantial economic threat to higher education.
Represented Aon as trial counsel in a major breach of fiduciary duty dispute related to the Public School Employees’ Retirement Systems in Pennsylvania.
Defending the University of Chicago in an ERISA lawsuit involving a dispute over retirement plan death benefits in the Northern District of Illinois.
Lawyers
Leading partners
The strongest partners in their field, leading on market-leading deals and endorsed by peers and clients alike.
Practice head
Amanda Amert; Craig Martin
Other key lawyers
Kimberly Jones; LaRue Robinson; Matt D. Basil; Matthew J. Thomas