A Profile of Dan Ryan, One of Chicago's Top Commercial Litigators

Dan Ryan, Hinshaw partner and chair of the firm's Business Litigation practice, was recently profiled in the August edition of Leading Lawyers Magazine.

The story sets out the journey of Ryan's professional career, starting with his work as a delivery driver for his father's transportation business, and continuing on to his current status as one of Chicago's top commercial litigators.

Ryan describes how working his way through college and law school as a delivery driver helped develop his work ethic: "I learned to work harder than everyone else. There are no shortcuts. You have to put the work in." That work ethic subsequently paid off in the form of many long-standing client relationships. According to his friend Michael Salvi of Salvi, Salvi, & Wifler, P.C., "the loyalty [Dan] has to clients – he doesn't see them just as clients. He puts his heart and soul into cases. His clients are definitely like family."

Ryan's combination of gritty hard work, competitive spirit and a gift for argument has paid off in his more than 30 years of courtroom experience. Says Dan Cozzo, counsel for Hinshaw client Cigna Corporation: "[Dan] doesn't like to lose, and he's a good enough lawyer that he doesn't lose often. It's good to see that ability along with the desire for success."

Having started at Hinshaw in 1988, Ryan said he remains loyal to the firm because of Hinshaw's collegial culture and the firm's ability to offer his clients a range of services in a variety of locations. "I've stayed at Hinshaw in large part because of my partners," he said. "We tend to value camaraderie and treat people with mutual respect."

Read the full cover story titled "Business Litigator Who Outworks His Opponents" (PDF)