Vaughn J. Richardson

Vaughn Richardson defends commercial airlines and aircraft associations against product liability claims arising from aviation incidents, including both physical injury and property damage claims asserted against national and regional aviation clients.

Prior to joining Hinshaw, Vaughn successfully defended general contractors and subcontractors in construction negligence and personal injury litigation.

She began her legal career in family law, gaining valuable experience representing clients in challenging and complex cases, a foundation that informs her careful approach to aviation and construction today.

In law school, Vaughn served as the Student Bar Association president and head of Chambers for the Trial Advocacy Society. She and her team won second place in the 2019 Lenny B. Mandell Moot Court Competition.

• Illinois State Bar Association
  • Young Lawyer Division
• Illinois Defense Counsel

• Professional
  • Recognized on the Rising Stars list by Illinois Super Lawyers magazine, 2023 – 2025
• Academic
  • Northern Illinois University College of Law
    • Student Bar Association, President
    • Trial Advocacy Society, Head of Chambers
    • Lenny B. Mandell Moot Court Competition, Finalist

• Co-Presenter, "Don’t Hit Send: Civility in the Profession," New Lawyer Starter Kit Basic Skills CLE Course, Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education, 2022
• Guest Speaker, IN RE Podcast, 2021

• Co-Author, Chapter 4, "Child Support," Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education's Family Law: Child-Related Issues in Dissolution Actions 2022 Edition

Vaughn is an Illinois native living in Chicago with her significant other and their mini zoo, which includes a French Bulldog and two former barn cats. There are likely more pets in Vaughn’s future as soon as she acquires a yard in the suburbs.

• Tri Delta, Epsilon Beta Chapter, Alumni Member
• David Mebuke Foundation, Volunteer