Kurt Weaver, Esteemed Litigator, Joins Shook Hardy Bacon in Chicago

Kurt Weaver Joins Shook, Hardy & Bacon in Chicago

Kurt Weaver, a renowned figure in the field of litigation, has made headlines after joining the prestigious legal firm Shook, Hardy & Bacon as a partner in their Chicago office. With over 30 years of experience, Weaver has a stellar reputation for defending clients involved in complex product liability and mass tort cases, showcasing expertise in multidistrict litigation (MDL) and intricate commercial disputes.

Weaver’s extensive experience spans various industries, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences, manufacturing, and retail. He has successfully guided clients through more than 13 significant product liability cases that were put to jury verdicts in the previous seven years. His role as lead counsel in numerous high-profile MDLs has solidified his status as an authority in the field. Moreover, Weaver offers invaluable advice to clients on navigating litigation risks, regulatory challenges, and marketing regulations.

Quotes from Leadership
Bill Geraghty, co-chair of Shook's Product Liability Litigation Practice, expressed enthusiasm about Weaver's addition, stating, “Having tried cases with Kurt, I can attest that his broad experience in MDLs and his ability to secure favorable outcomes for global clients makes him a tremendous asset to our team.” He highlighted how Weaver’s strengths will enable Shook to enhance its defense capabilities for consumer products, pharmaceutical, and commercial clients in challenging legal matters.

Weaver's notable cases include representation of a product manufacturer entangled in an ongoing MDL concerning liability claims related to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). He has also defended a multinational corporation in an MDL involving defective firefighter turnout gear, as well as representing a university in a class action over the risks of concussions faced by football players.

Madeleine McDonough, Chairman of Shook, echoed similar sentiments, stating, “I have admired Kurt for a long time. His courtroom mastery and reputation across industries make him a strategic asset to our national practice and our Chicago office.”

Reflecting on his career transition, Weaver remarked, “I’ve collaborated closely with Shook on multiple cases throughout the years, and I am eager to join the firm. I look forward to contributing to its impressive record of defending leading global companies in complex disputes.”

As a firm, Shook, Hardy & Bacon has maintained a stronghold since its founding in 1889, with 18 offices nationwide. The firm specializes in a variety of services, ranging from product liability defense to business litigation and regulatory counseling. With Weaver on board, Shook looks poised to further strengthen its litigation team and continue its legacy of excellence in legal defense.