20 25
ANNUAL REPORT
REFLECTING ON A YEAR OF IMPACT AND INSIGHT
Tel: 312.840.7000 330 North Wabash Avenue, Suite 2100 Chicago, Illinois www.burkelaw.com
“ Our commitment to exceptional client service, innovation, and cultivating a workplace grounded in diversity and inclusion remained central to everything we do. ”
As we look back on the past year, we are filled with appreciation for the accomplishments of our firm, our clients, and our colleagues. The successes of 2025 reflect the dedication, skill, and collaborative energy that continue to define Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C. This year, we navigated an evolving legal and business landscape while delivering meaningful results across a wide range of industries and practice areas. Our commitment to exceptional client service, innovation, and cultivating a workplace grounded in diversity and inclusion remained central to everything we do. This Year in Review captures many of the moments and milestones that shaped our year. We are honored to share them with you—our clients, partners, and friends—whose trust and support make our work possible. A defining theme of 2025 was growth. Over the past year, we welcomed 13 new attorneys across the firm—spanning nearly every practice area. Each new colleague brings impressive experience, a fresh perspective, and a shared dedication to the values that guide our firm. Their arrival reflects our strategic, disciplined approach to expansion: adding talent that strengthens our capabilities, deepens our bench, and enhances the sophisticated, responsive counsel our clients expect. In addition, we were honored to be recognized with several awards this year, both for individual achievements and for the firm as a whole. These acknowledgments reflect the hard work of our team and the trust our clients place in us, and we are grateful for the opportunity to serve at the highest level and are grateful for the opportunity to share these with you. As we look forward to the year ahead, we remain focused on delivering exceptional legal counsel, building lasting relationships, and making a positive impact in the communities we serve. Thank you for being an essential part of our story. We are excited for what lies ahead and look forward to reaching new heights together in the coming year.
With warm regards,
John Kobus, Jeffrey Warren, and David Welch Management Committee Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C.
2
STRENGTHENING OUR FIRM: NEW TALENT AT BURKE WARREN
At Burke Warren, our people remain the foundation of our success. In 2025, we continued to strengthen that foundation by welcoming 13 outstanding attorneys across our practice areas. Each new colleague brings valuable experience, diverse insights, and a depth of talent that further elevates the service we deliver to our clients.
We are intentional in our growth. We seek professionals who not only demonstrate excellence in their practice but who also reflect our core values—collaboration, integrity, and forward-thinking leadership. This year’s new hires were
RYANNE BRAUN ASSOCIATE 312.840.7123 rbraun@burkelaw.com
NIA CROSLEY ASSOCIATE 312.843.5845 ncrosley@burkelaw.com
OLIVIA FRAWLEY ASSOCIATE 312.843.5847 ofrawley@burkelaw.com
MATTHEW GOLDBERG PARTNER 312.840.7120 mgoldberg@burkelaw.com
SUZANNE GROSSMAN ASSOCIATE 312.840.7143 sgrossman@burkelaw.com
AARON KYROUAC ASSOCIATE 312.843.5803 akyrouac@burkelaw.com
ADAIR MACAULEY ASSOCIATE 312.840.7127 amacauley@burkelaw.com
thoughtfully chosen to meet our clients’ evolving needs, enhance our capabilities, and broaden the sophisticated, responsive counsel that has become a hallmark of our firm.
MICHAEL NOONAN PARTNER 312.840.7148 mnoonan@burkelaw.com
NIKHIL MEHTA PARTNER 312.840.7135 nmehta@burkelaw.com
ALEXANDRA ROGERS ASSOCIATE 312.840.7111 arogers@burkelaw.com
DAVID SACHS PARTNER 312.840.7061 dsachs@burkelaw.com
CHRISTOPHER SULLIVAN PARTNER 312.843.5840 csullivan@burkelaw.com
EITAN STIEBER PARTNER 312.840.7134 estieber@burkelaw.com
“ Their dedication, leadership, and commitment to excellence exemplify the values that drive our firm forward. ”
SHAREHOLDER PROMOTIONS: LEADERSHIP RECOGNIZED
DANIELLE GOULD is the Chair of the Firm’s Class Action Defense group. She is an experienced litigator with more than 25 years’ experience guiding clients through a wide range of disputes. Whether Danielle is handling a small matter, a significant class action, or preparing for trial, her goal is always to obtain the best results for her clients by the most efficient means. She represents individuals and businesses in a range of litigation matters, including claims involving privacy and data security, sales and marketing practices, consumer fraud, false advertising, unfair business practices, employment disputes, claims of negligent hiring and retention of employees, and general commercial and business disputes. This includes having defended clients in more than 50 class action matters nationwide involving a variety of claims based on state common law, consumer fraud statutes, employment laws, the Telephone Consumer Protection Act, and the Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act. Danielle also provides clients with compliance review services related to marketing practices and privacy and data security compliance, including website compliance, overview of company terms of service and privacy policies, and compliance with the use of technology that may capture biometric data. DAVID SACHS focuses his practice on helping clients purchase, sell, develop, lease, manage, and finance all types of property including industrial, mixed-use, multifamily, commercial, office, and vacant land sites. His practice extends to environmentally challenged and financially distressed properties and complex construction projects. With more than 37 years of experience in real estate, David helps real estate developers, investors, property managers, and entrepreneurs as well as wealthy individuals, closely-held companies, and restaurant owners/operators with real estate interests and related matters. He also handles litigation involving real estate contracts, property and construction disputes, landlord-tenant cases, foreclosure, and mechanic’s lien matters. David’s practice spans well beyond that of a typical real estate attorney. He represents many individuals and closely-held companies with their business formations, day-to-day business issues, and purchases and sales of companies. Previously while serving as general counsel for a manufacturing and real estate holding company, he negotiated contracts with general contractors, subcontractors, and vendors and supervised construction projects in the field. He also negotiated leases directly with tenants and handled day-to-day tenant relationships and property management issues.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: AWARDS AND RECOGNITIONS Burke Warren was honored to receive numerous awards and accolades that highlight the dedication, talent, and hard work of our team. These recognitions are a testament to our commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel, fostering a culture of innovation and inclusion, and making a meaningful impact on our clients and communities. We are proud to celebrate these achievements and grateful for the trust our clients place in us, which makes our success possible.
The Firm has been ranked in the Chambers Spotlight Illinois 2026, recognized for its outstanding work in Mergers & Acquisitions and Real Estate , and as a leading law firm in the Chicago market.
This significant recognition reflects the Firm’s commitment to delivering high-quality legal services, combining deep experience, responsiveness, and entrepreneurial thinking to meet its client needs. Inclusion in the Spotlight Guide underlines the Firm’s strong reputation among businesses and legal practitioners in Illinois.
Burke Warren has been recognized in the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms®.
Awardees included in the 2026 Best Law Firms edition are recognized for a consistent track record of professional excellence, innovation, and client satisfaction, as reflected in notable ratings
from both clients and peers. To be eligible for inclusion, a firm must have at least one lawyer recognized in the current edition of Best Lawyers in a Best Law Firms practice area and geographic jurisdiction. Achieving a national and/or regional- tiered ranking signifies a high-quality legal practice and a remarkable depth of legal proficiency. Burke Warren received the following rankings in the 2026 edition of Best Law Firms: National Tier 3 (United States): Commercial Litigation Regional Tier 1 (Chicago): Commercial Litigation Regional Tier 2 (Chicago): Real Estate Law
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: CONTINUED
Burke Warren is proud to announce that nine Firm attorneys have been named to the 2026 edition of Best Lawyers in America and Ones to Watch lists. These accolades recognize Burke Warren attorneys’ significant achievements throughout their careers in the areas of litigation, insurance law, environmental law, real estate law, bankruptcy, insolvency and reorganization law, construction law, transportation law, product liability litigation, and trust and estate litigation.
The full list of honorees is as follows: BEST LAWYERS: Nicholas A. Gowen Litigation – Labor and Employment Christopher E. Kentra Insurance Law Karen Kavanagh Mack Environmental Law, Litigation – Environmental Joseph P. Roddy Commercial Litigation David Sugar Real Estate Law David K. Welch Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law, Litigation - Bankruptcy Brian P. Welch Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights / Insolvency and Reorganization Law ONES TO WATCH Jayne Bart-Plange Construction Law, Product Liability Litigation – Defendants, Transportation Law Morgan M. Hess Litigation – Trusts and Estates
Burke Warren is honored to announce its recent A+ accreditation from the Better Business Bureau (BBB), a recognition that underscores the Firm’s unwavering commitment to integrity, transparency, and client service. Attorneys and staff at Burke Warren are proud to uphold the BBB Code of Business Practices, a comprehensive set of policies, procedures, and best practices focused on
fostering trust and maintaining integrity.
“To retain their accreditation status, businesses must operate with transparency, fulfill their promises, address client needs promptly, and protect their privacy,” said Steve J. Bernas, President & CEO of the Better Business Bureau.
Joshua Cauhorn has been honored in the 2026 edition of Benchmark Litigation as a Future Star in Illinois. Josh was selected for inclusion from a record number of litigators throughout the course of the 2026 research cycle.
Each year, the Benchmark USA research team undertakes an in-depth analysis to chart the evolving landscape of the American litigation market. The 2026 rankings showcase the nation’s most accomplished litigators and law firms—professionals who continue to set the standard for excellence in advocacy, strategy, and client service.
Brian Welch , Vice Chair of the Firm’s Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy practice group, has been named to Law Bulletin Media’s “40 Under Forty” list of notable Illinois attorneys in 2025. Chicago Daily Law Bulletin’s annual 40 Under Forty list recognizes talented young attorneys who were nominated by clients and peers based on their legal acumen, professional achievements, and service to the community at large. Brian was selected from a group of more than 1,000 nominations of lawyers throughout Illinois.
Nominators commended Brian for his extraordinary ability to navigate complex issues to craft practical and effective strategies to help his clients reach favorable results. “Brian has mastered all aspects of the restructuring, insolvency, and bankruptcy practice,” one nominator said. “He wisely counsels clients as to their rights under the Bankruptcy Code and the risks to achieving their desired result.” As a seasoned bankruptcy attorney, Brian focuses his practice primarily on reorganization of distressed businesses, debtor’s and creditor’s rights, insolvency, and commercial litigation. Brian has represented a diverse group of clients including individual and corporate debtors in Chapter 11 and Chapter 7 proceedings, secured and unsecured creditors, landlords, estate representatives such as Chapter 7 and Chapter 11 trustees, plan administrators, state law receivers, and assignees for the benefit of creditors. In addition, Brian has successfully litigated several bankruptcy appeals in District Court and before the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals, achieving both reversals and affirmances of Bankruptcy Court decisions. Brian also has a broad range of experience in commercial disputes in both State and Federal courts, including representation of debtors, creditors, and estate representatives in various litigation matters.
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: CONTINUED
Jayne Bart-Plange has been honored in Law Bulletin Media’s 2025 Top Women in the Law Awards. Jayne, who is a member of the Firm’s Litigation practice group, has served as a longtime advocate and mentor for women within the legal industry. As a leading civil litigation and trial attorney, Jayne has tried high-value complex cases, and has successfully argued dispositive motions in both State and Federal courts. Jayne represents clients in Illinois and throughout the Midwest with a primary focus in the logistics and
transportation industry. Nominees celebrate Jayne for her unique blend of experience in providing practical business counsel coupled with her fierce litigation skills, and they highlight her strategic and methodical approach to reaching favorable resolutions in the best interests of her clients. Now in its sixth year, Law Bulletin Media’s Top Women in the Law Awards honors Chicago attorneys for working to promote and advance women in the profession, achieving success in their areas of practice, and bringing leadership to their firms and the legal industry at large. The Chicago Daily Law Bulletin and Chicago Lawyer selection committee chose Jayne from a collection of hundreds of nominations for lawyers throughout the Chicagoland area.
Nicholas Gowen has been named to Crain’s Chicago Business’ 2025 “Notable Litigators & Trial Attorneys” list, highlighting attorneys throughout Chicagoland who demonstrate significant experience and earn notable achievements in litigation and trial work. This is the second time that Nick has been honored by peers and industry professionals as one of Chicago’s Notable Litigators & Trial Attorneys. As an experienced trial attorney, Nick represents global
companies, middle-market businesses, entrepreneurs, and governmental entities in commercial disputes including shareholder disputes, post-closing disputes, trade secret misappropriation, real estate disputes, employment matters, and other business disputes in courts and arbitration forums in the U.S. and internationally. Nick has also devoted significant time representing prisoners pro bono in trials and Seventh Circuit appeals to protect their civil rights. Nick brings an assertive and direct approach to litigation focusing on results, while understanding that advancing his clients’ litigation strategies must fit within their overall business objectives.
J olisa Warmack , Associate in the Firm’s Litigation group, has been named to the Cristo Rey Network 40 Under 40 cohort in 2025. Now in its 2nd year, the Cristo Rey Network 40 Under 40 cohort recognizes 40 distinguished individuals who are leaders and role models in their respective communities and workplaces. The alumni selected for this honor include professionals from a wide range of industries including education, banking and finance, healthcare, media, nonprofit organizations, technology, and law.
Burke Warren is pleased to announce that six attorneys have been selected to the 2025 Illinois Super Lawyers and Rising Stars lists, with five repeat awardees and one new awardee. We congratulate the following attorneys included in this year’s selection:
2025 ILLINOIS SUPER LAWYERS Nicholas A. Gowen Litigation Christopher E. Kentra Litigation Douglas E. Wambach Real Estate
2025 ILLINOIS RISING STARS Luca J. Giovine Litigation (New Addition in 2025) Brian J. Hingston Litigation and Religious Organizations Brian P. Welch Restructuring, Insolvency, and Bankruptcy
RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE: CONTINUED
Burke Warren is pleased to share that Midwest Real Estate News has recognized the Firm’s Real Estate practice among the top 10 firms in Commercial Real Estate in their Midwest “Best of the Best” list in 2025. Midwest Real Estate News is one of the leading authoritative publications in its segment, serving as the go to resource for all matters of commercial real estate throughout the Heartland states. Attorneys in Burke Warren’s Real Estate practice are involved in virtually every aspect of real estate, representing industry professionals as well as clients in other sectors with real estate needs. While offering the specialized talent of a real estate boutique, the Firm
provides its real estate clients coordinated access to related service specialties such as tax, litigation, zoning and land use, government incentives, and ERISA, among others. With a diverse client base including developers, investors, pension funds, government entities, not-for-profit organizations, and a wide variety of commercial real estate owners and users throughout the Midwest, Burke Warren is proud to partner with key figures in the real estate arena to move deals across the finish line efficiently.
As a premier employer of University of Illinois law students, Burke Warren is honored to be named to the 2025 College of Law Employer Honor Roll by the University of Illinois College of Law. Special thanks to Greg Miarecki from the University of Illinois College of Law Leadership Project for visiting our office to present the award to a group of our fellow Illini alumni including Nicholas Gowen , Matt Norton , and Aaron Stanton .
Alexandra Rogers was recognized as a Black Women Lawyers’ Association of Greater Chicago, Inc. (BWLA) Rising Star for the 2024–2025 bar year. Alex also serves in a leadership role as Treasurer for the BWLA 2025–2026 bar year. Founded in 1987, the BWLA is one of the fastest growing bar associations in Illinois. BWLA is representative of African-American female attorneys, judges, law professors and law students in the Chicago metropolitan area and across the Midwest.
PRACTICE GROUP HIGHLIGHT: INSURANCE RECOVERY
Burke Warren attorneys Chris Kentra and Blake Roter won summary judgment in a $12 Million insurance recovery action which was affirmed on appeal this year in Axis Surplus Ins. Co. v. Allied World Assur. Co. , 2025 IL App (1st) 240964-U. The dispute arose after our client’s insurers denied that they had a duty to defend and indemnify an additional insured under primary and excess CGL policies relating to a construction accident. The Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois granted summary judgment in favor of our client and its additional insured, which resulted in an additional $12 Million in insurance proceeds being available to resolve an underlying personal injury matter. The Circuit Court was then affirmed by the Illinois Appellate Court, First District. Burke Warren’s Insurance Recovery Practice Group represents policyholders in insurance disputes in state and federal courts across the country. The Group’s attorneys routinely negotiate and litigate coverage claims in a variety of industries under CGL, D&O, E&O, EPL, Fiduciary and Property policies.
CHRIS KENTRA
BLAKE ROTER
In 2025, Burke Warren expanded its client service offerings with the addition of a robust Condominium & Community Associations Practice. With decades of combined experience, the team is highly skilled in addressing the unique legal and operational challenges facing condominiums, community associations, and cooperative apartments, and serves as trusted counsel to hundreds of association clients. The practice includes David Sugar , James Stevens , Matthew Goldberg , Adair Macauley , Ryanne Braun , Aaron Kyrouac and Olivia Frawley . Known for their knowledgeable, strategic, and highly accessible approach, the team provides comprehensive general counsel services tailored to the day-to-day and long-term needs of community associations. CORE SERVICES INCLUDE: Governance & Operations: Advising boards on governing documents, meetings, resolutions, best practices, and covenant enforcement. Assessment Recovery & Enforcement: Managing collections, foreclosure defense matters, and rule enforcement. Transactions: Drafting and negotiating contracts, assisting with financing, amending governing documents, and handling de- conversions and bulk sales. As part of its commitment to proactive client service, the firm annually publishes the Illinois Condominium Property Act book , providing a comprehensive review of new laws, key cases, and legal developments impacting community associations in the year ahead. The 2026 edition is available in searchable PDF format. CLIENT SERVICE HIGHLIGHT: CONDOMINIUM & COMMUNITY ASSOCIATIONS PRACTICE
CLIENT SPOTLIGHT:
VILLAGE OF MUNDELEIN We were proud to represent the Village of Mundelein in connection with Flaherty & Collins’s $90 million AREA Apartments project, a significant downtown mixed-use development that will serve as a catalyst for long-term revitalization. Our firm’s representation
centered around a unique public-private partnership, in which the Village filled the project’s financial gap by acquiring an equity interest in the project, in exchange for Village-owned land and otherwise payable Village impact fees. As part of its financing, the developer also immediately monetized a Village-issued tax increment finance note. The project will transform a long-vacant site in the heart of the Village into a vibrant, transit-oriented community featuring 225 multifamily units, 17 rental townhomes, retail space, and a parking garage. Located along Metra’s North Central Service line, the development offers convenient access to Downtown Chicago and the surrounding region while supporting walkability and connectivity within downtown Mundelein. When completed, AREA Apartments is expected to bring new energy, housing, and opportunity to the Village’s core. Our team— Matt Norton , Betsy Gates-Alford , Brad Ader , and David Schoenherr —provided integrated legal services, including tax increment finance, corporate structuring, zoning and subdivision, and transactional real estate, helping the Village prepare the complex agreements necessary to achieve this unique public-private partnership designed to support economic growth and community development.
We were proud to represent the Maafa Redemption Project as it broke ground on its new arts and activism center in Chicago’s West Garfield Park neighborhood. Partners Nicholas Gowen , Rebecca Huston , Matt Norton , and Douglas Wambach led the transaction to develop the parcel. MAAFA Redemption Project is a faith-based residential institute for emerging adult men of color and offers residential support, workforce training, and a host of wrap-around social services in the community. MAAFA REDEMPTION PROJECT
CALUMET PAINT & WALLPAPER
In early 2021, a large arbitration award was entered against Calumet (a family owned retail paint shop) and in favor of a former salesperson of Calumet. Although Calumet did not participate in the arbitration, the salesperson was aggressively pursuing collection of the award in state court. Lacking any way to slow down the state court collection efforts, Calumet hired David Welch and Brian Welch to file a Chapter 11 bankruptcy case for Calumet. The filing of the Chapter 11 case resulted in the state court collection proceeding being automatically stayed pursuant to the Bankruptcy Code. After obtaining the breathing room afforded by the Bankruptcy Code, the parties returned to state court to litigate the validity of the arbitration award. The state court vacated and invalidated the arbitration award and remanded the matter to be re-litigated before a new arbitrator, affording Calumet its day in court. Calumet successfully navigated Chapter 11 and confirmed a plan of reorganization. Although the salesperson continued to assert a claim of approximately $2.4 million, Calumet restructured its payment obligations to all of its creditors, collectively, to no more than $410,000 over a 3 year period. During the Chapter 11 case, Calumet separately litigated with the salesperson’s principal and obtained a $60,000 judgment to recover commissions that were overpaid over the years. Ultimately, the salesperson’s claims (which had grown to approximately $3 million) were re-arbitrated. Following a contested arbitration hearing, it was determined that Calumet had no liability to the salesperson, and the arbitrator entered an arbitration award in favor of Calumet as the prevailing party to recover its attorneys’ fees from the salesperson.
PRO BONO IN PRACTICE: Partner Nicholas Gowen was appointed by the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit to represent a formerly incarcerated inmate in a matter involving Eighth Amendment claims under Bivens, Egbert, and Carlson. Associates Christine Eduardo and Christopher Verdugo led the briefing, and Nick presented oral argument before the Court. Following the argument, the Court commended the Burke Warren team for its outstanding advocacy and dedication to protecting constitutional rights through pro bono service. Burke Warren was proud to represent Chicago Jewish Day School in a major renovation project that modernized the school’s learning environment, including a food lab, student union and innovation center that will serve 235 Chicagoland students.
ALEX MARKS NAMED PRESIDENT OF THE DECALOGUE SOCIETY
Alex Marks was installed as President of the Decalogue Society of Lawyers, America’s oldest Jewish bar association, at their 91st Annual Installation and Awards Dinner on July 31. Timothy Evans, the Chief Judge of the Circuit Court of Cook County, swore in Alex as President of Decalogue’s Officers and Board of Managers for 2025-26 at the installation. The Decalogue Society of Lawyers is an esteemed group of judges and attorneys dedicated to serving the legal community throughout Illinois. For over nine decades, it has worked to uphold the highest standards of the legal profession, support the institutions that ensure adherence to the rule of law, and combat antisemitism and all forms of hatred and discrimination.
ALEX MARKS
At Burke Warren, our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion goes beyond supporting our team—it’s about actively engaging with the communities we serve and making a meaningful difference. Through the work of our DEI Committee, we strive to foster an inclusive culture within the firm while championing initiatives that create positive impact beyond our walls. DEI SPOTLIGHT ADVANCING DEI AND PRO BONO INITIATIVES EFFORTS TO FOSTER INCLUSION AND GIVE BACK
In honor of Pride Month, Burke Warren visited Brave Space Alliance, an LGBTQ+ focused Center on Chicago’s South Side, to volunteer in support of their efforts to provide dignified essential services that directly impact our Trans, LGBQ+, and Black communities. The Burke Warren team helped sort and pack meal kits and clothing donations, and created messages of support for those in need. Many thanks to Brave Space Alliance for this wonderful opportunity.
For the second year in a row, Burke Warren participated in an interactive career day program at O’Toole elementary school in Chicago’s West Englewood neighborhood. The program was hosted by Nicholas Gowen , Chair of the Firm’s Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee, alongside Chicagoland professionals, entrepreneurs, and public leaders. Students engaged with professionals from a wide range of industries who shared insight into their career paths, personal keys to success, and encouragement for pursuing future goals. Colleagues from across the firm led panel discussions and small-group conversations, answering students’ questions and sharing their own experiences. Burke Warren is proud to continue partnering with the local community to advance equity, expand access to opportunity, and support the next generation of leaders.
Burke Warren was honored to welcome our friends from BWLA of Greater Chicago, Inc. for a wonderful evening of community, refreshments, and fun as we packed backpacks donated by Burke Warren attorneys and staff with school supplies to be handed out at the Annual Bud Billiken Parade.
PRO BONO SPOTLIGHT At Burke Warren, giving back is at the heart of what we do. Our attorneys generously lend their time and experience to support individuals, nonprofits, and community initiatives, helping to create meaningful impact where it’s needed most.
“ Pro bono services are an ethical and moral responsibility we take very seriously. The selfless work performed by Firm attorneys provides a great service to our community, and the clients we aid are incredibly grateful for the assistance provided. The Firm’s commitment to pro bono work is a source of great pride, and the flexibility to perform such work is one of the great aspects of working at Burke Warren. ” - ALEX MARKS PRO BONO COMMITTEE CHAIR
Raised $23,450 for Chicago Bar Foundation Investing in Justice Campaign, used to fund Chicagoland’s leading pro bono organizations that provide free legal aid services to our communities’ most vulnerable and in need individuals.
550
hours of pro bono legal services completed by 23 team
members
Our firm’s commitment to pro bono work shines through the exceptional efforts of our Pro Bono All-Stars:
Josh Cauhorn
Nia Crosley
Christine Eduardo
Luca Giovine
Danielle Gould
Andrew LeMar
Alex Marks
Jackie Robbins
Morgan Hess
Nick Gowen
Blake Roter
Shana Shifrin
Eitan Stieber
Chris Verdugo
Alex Weissman
At Burke Warren, our sponsorships reflect our commitment to both the communities we serve and the clients we are proud to support. By partnering with events and initiatives that matter, we strengthen relationships, foster collaboration, and contribute to causes that make a meaningful difference. SUPPORTING WHAT MATTERS:
We were honored to sponsor the 2025 Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago Spirit of St. Nicholas Ball— joining fellow supporters to raise funds for vital services for people across Cook and Lake counties. Thanks to the unwavering support its sponsors, the St. Nicholas Ball has raised $21 million over the last decade—funds that are critical to sustaining life-changing programs and essential resources for those in need throughout the year.
We were proud to sponsor Chicago Hope Academy’s 2025 Blue and White Gala fundraiser held on October 3rd at the Chicago Athletic Association. Chicago Hope Academy is a Christian preparatory high school with a mission to transform underserved areas of Chicago by building up tomorrow’s leaders.
Along with friends from @properties, we were delighted to sponsor the Chicago Children’s Museum 2025 Annual Gala on Saturday, November 15. Chicago’s corporate, civic, and philanthropic leaders gathered to raise vital funds to help the museum maintain and grow its programming, and continue its mission to create an environment where every child feels seen, safe, and inspired.
We were proud to sponsor the Junior Board of Chicago Volunteer Legal Services for its 16th Annual Vino + Van Gough—a fundraising and networking event with proceeds benefiting CVLS and its ongoing mission to provide equal access to justice to those in need.
We proudly sponsored the Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metropolitan Chicago and its 2025 Night of Champions event on Friday, October 24. BBBS Chicago Champions and business leaders from across the region gathered to raise over $300,000 in an effort to ensure more children in our communities have access to positive opportunities, learning experiences, and role models—a win-win for all.
We proudly sponsored the @properties @Gives Back pickleball fundraiser in Highland Park on November 6. One of its largest fundraisers of the year, the @Gives Back 2025 tournament benefited seven outstanding local nonprofits in support of their great work in the community.
We were pleased to sponsor the 20th Annual Savills Landlord Challenge Golf Tournament on Monday, September 29, hosted by Eric Feinberg. The Savills Landlord Challenge encourages friendly industry competition among commercial property owners and leasing agents while raising funds to support important local causes including Cradles to Crayons and Bernie’s Book Bank in 2025.
Attorneys Rachel Bossard and Brittany Martin represented Burke Warren at the 2025 Big Shoulders Fund Ball to help raise funds for kids in the community.
We were honored to sponsor the Anti-Defamation League’s Chefs Against Hate fundraiser—a community engagement event benefiting the ADL’s fight against hate and antisemitism. Many thanks to the host of the evening’s events, culinary expert and author Gail Simmons, and congratulations to awardees Zachary Engel and Andrés Clavero of Galit for their special recognition with the Culinary Compass Award in 2025.
In honor of Pride Month, we partnered with Brave Space Alliance (BSA) to secure donations of food supplies and personal hygiene items for individuals in our local communities. We are proud to support BSA—a LGBTQ+ center on the South Side of Chicago that provides affirming and culturally competent services for the entire LGBTQ+ community of Chicago. Burke Warren will always strive to make a lasting impact for marginalized groups in the communities we serve.
We were honored to sponsor the BWLA of Greater Chicago, Inc. and their backpack drive to commemorate Chicago’s 96th Annual Bud Billiken Parade on Saturday, August 9.
Partner Danielle Gould represented Burke Warren at the 23rd Annual Heroes Breakfast hosted by the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago. American Red Cross proudly celebrates individuals and groups for acts of remarkable bravery, dedication and service, and we are honored to support the organization’s ongoing mission of humanitarianism in the communities it serves.
We are proud to be a Strategic Partner Member Firm of the Entrepreneur and Family Business Council at DePaul University in support of its mission to educate and empower the people of family and entrepreneurial businesses through impactful programs and a thriving community of peer support.
We were proud to sponsor the National Conference of Bankruptcy Judges (NCBJ) 2025 Annual Meeting and Conference held in Chicago, Illinois. The NCBJ Annual Conference is the largest annual gathering of leading insolvency professionals and provides opportunities for legal education and networking for bankruptcy judges and the bankruptcy community at large.
We were a featured sponsor of the Organization for Social Media Safety 2025 Gala. We are honored to support its work towards ending social media-related dangers and making social media safe for everyone.
Congratulations and thanks to the Decalogue Society of Lawyers for hosting its 2025 Judicial Reception. We are proud to sponsor the organization and their efforts to continuously raise the standards of the bar and bench.
We were proud to support Project H.O.O.D.’s 11th Annual Fundraising Gala in 2025. It is an honor to celebrate another year of successful fundraising achievements in support of the organization’s ongoing mission to help transform lives and communities throughout Chicago.
We were delighted to attended Plymouth Place Senior Living’s Annual 2025 Corporate Partnership Cruise to celebrate shared successes throughout the year.
With friends from our longtime firm client and event sponsor Development Solutions, Inc. we were proud to support Giant Steps Illinois Inc as they hosted their 4th Annual Canopy Golf Outing. The Canopy Program provides education, vocation, and purpose for young adults with autism to help make a meaningful impact in enriching their lives.
We were proud to sponsor the Haymarket Center’s 50th Anniversary Gala — celebrating 50 years of impact as a beacon of hope in empowering individuals and families to overcome substance use disorder.
We proudly sponsored the 2025 Fore the Kids Catholic Schools Golf Outing hosted by the Archdiocese of Chicago. Proceeds from Fore the Kids will benefit emergency tuition assistance and academic innovation—two vital areas that provide scholarships to students in need and support academic coaching to better serve their students.
FUN AROUND THE FIRM:
Burke Warren served up a little fun at the annual Ping Pong Tournament at SPiN Chicago. The competition was fiercely intense and we left it all on the table. Congratulations to our 2025 champion Brad Ader and special thanks to Blake Roter for organizing another great tournament!
Burke Warren gathered to enjoy a wonderful summer evening on Chicago’s riverfront at Pizzeria Portofino to connect and celebrate with our excellent staff, attorneys, and 2025 summer associates!
Burke Warren was honored to spend its Annual Service Day supporting the Loaves and Fishes lunch program of the Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Chicago. We made over 250 lunches to support those in need in our community. Each year, Catholic Charities works tirelessly to serve 370,000+ people throughout Cook and Lake counties in its ongoing mission to provide hope and healing to our neighbors in need.
Attorneys in Burke Warren’s Women’s Forum gathered to celebrate the close of summer with colleagues across the firm at a relaxed evening together.
Celebrating a Chicago St. Patrick’s Day tradition unlike any other! Burke Warren attorneys, staff, and their families gathered to watch the iconic dyeing of the Chicago River from our offices in River North.
Burke Warren enjoyed a well deserved break to hit the links for our annual BWMS Golf Tournament at Winnetka Golf Club. Congratulations to our 7 under par winning group of Anna Kardaras, Robin Mohr, Daniel Warren, and Gregory Winters, long drive challenge winners Jacqueline Robbins and Gregory Winters, and closest to the pin challenge winners Ryanne Braun and Blake Roter.
Race Judicata 2025 is always a great time running and walking alongside our colleagues in support of Chicago Volunteer Legal Services and its mission to provide equal access to legal representation in Chicago.
In honor of International Women’s Day on March 8 th , Burke Warren gathered to celebrate the incredible women shaping the future of the law each and every day. Burke Warren’s Women’s Forum is committed to fostering real change through mentorship, opportunity, and providing spaces where women can thrive.
3 strikes you’re out at the old ball game! Nothing beats a Cubs game on a warm summer afternoon on the North Side with Burke Warren’s wonderful associates. Even though the Cubs didn’t raise the W this time, we’ll be back next year to root for the home team.
The Burke Warren Women’s Forum is an integral part of our firm’s culture, bringing together women attorneys across practice areas and career stages to connect, collaborate, and lead. The Forum provides a space for thoughtful conversation, shared learning, and relationship-building—strengthening both individual careers and the firm as a whole. Through purposeful programming and engagement, the group supports professional development, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas that help our attorneys thrive. The women featured here represent the depth and diversity of talent at Burke Warren, including practice group leaders, partners and emerging leaders. Their experiences and perspectives reflect the many paths to success in the legal profession and reinforce the value of visibility, support, and community. The Forum celebrates these contributions while encouraging continued growth, leadership, and opportunity at every stage. We are proud of our firm’s continued commitment to advancing women in the law. Women at Burke Warren hold key leadership roles and play an active part in shaping the firm’s direction, culture, and future. The Women’s Forum helps amplify those voices, foster connection, and champion the achievements of the women who make our firm stronger every day. WOMEN’S FORUM FOSTERING CONNECTION, LEADERSHIP, AND OPPORTUNITY
“ Their experiences and perspectives reflect the many paths to success in the legal profession and reinforce the value of visibility, support, and community. ”
CONNECTED AROUND THE WORLD
DELIVERING TRUSTED LEGAL GUIDANCE THROUGH WORLDWIDE CONNECTIONS
While Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella’s roots are firmly planted in Chicago, our capabilities extend far beyond our local footprint. In an increasingly interconnected business and legal environment, our clients require counsel who can respond seamlessly to opportunities and challenges wherever they arise—combining global reach with deep local insight. Clients with legal matters spanning jurisdictions and borders turn to Burke Warren for trusted guidance through our affiliation with Lawyers Associated Worldwide (LAW), an invitation-only, highly selective global network of independent law firms. Through LAW, we collaborate with more than 4,000 attorneys across 180 commercial jurisdictions worldwide, providing our clients with access to exceptional legal talent wherever their business takes them. As the exclusive LAW member firm in greater Chicago and throughout Illinois, Burke Warren is uniquely positioned to deliver “boots on the ground” representation around the world while maintaining close, trusted relationships at home. We work seamlessly with affiliated firms across North America, Europe, South America, the Middle East, Africa, and the Asia-Pacific region to define objectives, maintain clear communication, and implement effective, coordinated legal strategies.
Our leadership within LAW further reflects the firm’s commitment to excellence and global engagement. Partner Elizabeth Davis served as a Regional Representative on the LAW Executive Committee from 2021 through 2025 and concurrently chaired the organization’s Recruiting Committee. Partner Rachel Bossard served as Chair of the U.S./Canada Employment Law Group beginning in 2019, providing strategic leadership and insight within the network. We are grateful for their dedication, leadership, and meaningful contributions in helping to strengthen and shape LAW’s global platform. Founded in 1989, Lawyers Associated Worldwide has become synonymous with professionalism, collaboration, and high-caliber legal service across a broad range of practice areas. The firms within the network both mirror and complement our own capabilities, extending the depth and breadth of service we provide to our clients.
Rachel Bossard at U.S. Canada Employment Law Conference
Liz Davis attending the LAW Annual General Meeting
20 25
ANNUAL REPORT
BURKE, WARREN, MACKAY & SERRITELLA, P.C. 330 NORTH WABASH AVENUE, SUITE 2100 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60611
TEL: 312.840.7000
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