Chicago, IL trial attorney Michael Leonard discusses his experience in handling discrimination cases. He describes that his approach to employment discrimination cases is informed by a unique breadth of experience. For approximately 10 to 15 years, he practiced exclusively on the defense side, representing companies in litigation and defending them against allegations of discrimination based on age, race, gender, sexual harassment, and other protected categories.

About 10 to 12 years ago, he shifted his focus to representing individuals pursuing claims of workplace discrimination across a wide range of protected classes. While he occasionally continues to advise companies facing litigation, his practice now primarily emphasizes plaintiff representation. Having significant experience on both sides of employment disputes, he possesses a deep understanding of the defense’s strategy and the company’s perspective, as well as the challenges and potential obstacles an individual plaintiff may face in pursuing a case at trial. This dual perspective allows him to craft strategic, informed approaches that maximize the likelihood of a favorable outcome for his clients.