CHICAGO (July 2025) - Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney continues its strategic expansion with the addition of Michael Schlechtweg as Counsel in the firm's Chicago office. He joins the firm's litigation section. With more than 16 years of experience in complex litigation, he has successfully represented clients across a broad spectrum of matters, including product liability, construction disputes and catastrophic personal injury cases.
"We are excited to welcome Michael to the firm." said Gretchen Jankowski, co-chair of the firm's litigation section. "He is a seasoned trial attorney with experience and a skillset that deepens our national bench, enhancing the value that we offer to clients."
Michael Gaertner, shareholder and head of the Chicago office added, "We are committed to continued growth in Chicago, and with the addition of Michael, we can begin to maximize opportunity with national clients, offering them additional services in Illinois."
"I look forward to working with my new Buchanan colleagues in Chicago and across the firm's national footprint," said Schlechtweg. "Buchanan has great momentum in Chicago with the recent office opening, and I am excited to grow my practice here."
Schlechtweg manages every aspect of litigation matters, and he has tried fifteen cases to verdict as first, second and third chair trial counsel. Recently, he secured a defense verdict in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, on a high-exposure construction injury claim. He frequently negotiates pre-suit settlements and conducts investigations related to mass casualty and catastrophic injury events, always with a focus on protecting client confidentiality and business interests. Additionally, he provides general counsel services and drafts vendor agreements and construction contracts.
Schlechtweg holds a law degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law and a bachelor's degree from Indiana University Bloomington, Kelley School of Business.