Susan Valentine

For more than last 30 years, Susan has handled disputes, and when necessary, actively litigated a wide range of matters. She counsels her clients – from government agencies to Fortune 100 companies – on a variety of sensitive business issues, and her clients depend on her practical, timely, and cost-effective approach. Her focus has been on litigating disputes involving business entities in commercial matters, ranging from breach-of-contract issues to internal investigations that involve fraud and other misconduct. She also investigates and litigates matters involving creditors’ rights, restrictive covenants, shareholder actions, professional liability, insurance, and reinsurance. In addition, Susan represents aviation interests, including foreign airlines, in state and federal court and is a member of the International Aviation Women’s Association.

Given the economic and other risks of litigation, Susan understands that trial is not always the best path to resolution. She has consistently obtained excellent results in mediations and settlement conferences. When resolution is not possible by motion or settlement, Susan brings to her cases decades of experience with trials, arbitrations, and contested hearings.  She is a member of the Trial Bar for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and of the Trials Practice Area Committee of the National Association of Minority and Women Owned Law Firms. 

Throughout her career, Susan has dedicated significant time to pro bono work, including impact litigation relating to fair housing matters, women’s rights, and criminal justice issues.  She currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Chicago Bar Foundation and for BEDS Plus Care.