Trent focuses his practice on complex commercial and business litigation, and environmental litigation and counseling. He takes a results-focused approach to litigation, planning from the outset what will be needed to successfully prosecute or defend a case to trial. This approach reduces discovery and motion practice, leading to better and more predictable outcomes for his clients, whether cases end at trial or by settlement. Clients praise Trent’s approach and tenacity, as well as his ability to connect with judges and juries by breaking down complex issues in ways that are understandable and persuasive. Trent represents and defends clients in single-party, class, derivative or collective actions involving breach of contract, environmental claims such as trespass and nuisance, trade secrets, breach of fiduciary duty, product liability/tort and other claims.
Trent also works with clients on the strategic growth of their business, mergers & acquisitions, and other legal needs which arise in the course of business. This reflects his belief in a true team approach with his clients, which is why he has retained his clients for many years as they have faced many issues together.
Education & Credentials
Education
Notre Dame Law School
J.D., 1997University of Wisconsin
B.A., 1994Bar Admission
Acknowledgements
- Illinois Super Lawyers
- Top Lawyer, Business Litigation (2012-2022)
- Rising Star (2009-2011)
- Corporate INTL Magazine
- Restructuring Litigator of the Year in Illinois (2014, 2015)
- Global Law Experts
- Restructuring Litigator – Illinois (2014)
Prominent Assignments
Lead counsel for a large metal heat treating company seeking millions in damages stemming from fire at its facility. DW took over representation of the client after all of its claims had been dismissed against two primary defendants. Our team successfully filed an appeal that fully reversed the trial court and now allows the client to pursue its claims against the defendants.
Lead counsel for a national refuse company affiliate in a collective action involving thousands of claimants seeking over $1 billion in damages. After extensive litigation, including the beginning of the first bellwether trial, the case was settled far below reservations for settlement and a small fraction of the plaintiffs’ demands.
Lead counsel in several shareholder disputes involving closely held companies. In all instances the result was victory and retention of the business entity for our clients. These matters include trials, arbitrations, mediations, and pre-trial settlements.
Lead counsel in a large breach of fiduciary duty and director and officer liability case involving a failed bankcorp. After aggressive litigation and intense multi-session mediation sessions the client recovered millions from several insurance companies far above the client’s initial expectations.
Lead counsel for a retiree committee in a large bankruptcy. After intense pre-trial litigation, the matter was settled as trial was to begin for over $90 million. The initial settlement offer to our client was zero.
Lead counsel on several odor class action matters for a national refuse company, all cases settling for nuisance damage amounts prior or concurrent with class certification.
Lead counsel in breach of contract and environmental litigation matter involving millions of dollars and virtually uncapped liabilities. After implementing an aggressive litigation strategy our client was able to force a settlement for less than the client’s original offer to settlement before our involvement.
Community Involvement
- Former Village Trustee and Park District Commissioner, Glencoe, Illinois
Court Admissions
- U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
- U.S. Court of Appeals, Third Circuit
- U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, including Trial Bar
- U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois
- U.S. District Court, Northern District of Indiana
- U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin
Publications/Presentations
- Speaker, "Lawyers Working Hybrid or Remotely: Thumbs Up or Down ... Why and How?," Chicago Bar Association, November 2022