Ada W.Dolph
Partner
Labor & Employment
adolph@seyfarth.com
PROFILE
EXPERIENCE
NEWS & INSIGHTS
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Ada revels in crafting innovative, successful legal arguments for her clients’ employment challenges. Your problem is her problem, and she is a relentless advocate, whether for outright dismissal or negotiation of a favorable settlement.
More About Ada
With nearly 20 years of experience as a labor and employment litigator with Seyfarth, Ada is a trusted advisor to clients in the airline, retail, health care, and manufacturing industries. Ada’s practice focuses on advice and counsel, and innovative litigation involving:
- Complex procedural defenses including: preemption of state law claims under ERISA, Railway Labor Act, Airline Deregulation Act, Federal Aviation Act, and the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Act (SGLIA); Article III and statutory standing; statute of limitations; and administrative exhaustion requirements, among others.
- Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) claims, prevailing as lead counsel in the first BIPA case to be heard by the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
- Illinois Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) claims.
- Whistleblower claims under state law, AIR21, Dodd-Frank, and Sarbanes-Oxley.
- Discrimination claims in state and federal jurisdictions across the country, including under Title VII, ADA, Section 1981, and the ADEA, and their state law counterparts, including systemic actions brought by the EEOC.
- ERISA single- and multiplaintiff and class action matters involving denial of health, disability, life, pension, and 401(k) benefits, including defense of high-profile “stock drop,” retiree medical, and 401(k) fee class actions.
Ada’s class action experience includes unique procedural issues including sustaining removal of cases to federal court on preemption and Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA) grounds, successfully opposing a named plaintiff-intervenor, obtaining Fed. R. Civ. P. 23(f) review of class certification, obtaining appellate CAFA review and reversal of a district court remand order, defeating and narrowing class certification, and negotiating and overseeing settlements in classes of up to 160,000 class members.
Ada also has significant e-discovery experience in both single-plaintiff and class action matters, including the effective and efficient management of preservation, collection, review, and production of electronically stored information (ESI), as well as aggressively navigating disputes regarding the breadth and scope of the production of ESI.
In 2019, Ada’s unique legal strategy in a a commercial airline matter was recognized for innovation by The Financial Times.
Ada also co-chairs the firm's Air and Rail specialty team, and is a member of its ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation practice group, Whistleblower team, and Health Care and Provider Fraud team.
- Complex procedural defenses including: preemption of state law claims under ERISA, Railway Labor Act, Airline Deregulation Act, Federal Aviation Act, and the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Act (SGLIA); Article III and statutory standing; statute of limitations; and administrative exhaustion requirements, among others.
- Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) claims, prevailing as lead counsel in the first BIPA case to be heard by the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
- Illinois Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) claims.
- Whistleblower claims under state law, AIR21, Dodd-Frank, and Sarbanes-Oxley.
- Discrimination claims in state and federal jurisdictions across the country, including under Title VII, ADA, Section 1981, and the ADEA, and their state law counterparts, including systemic actions brought by the EEOC.
- ERISA single- and multiplaintiff and class action matters involving denial of health, disability, life, pension, and 401(k) benefits, including defense of high-profile “stock drop,” retiree medical, and 401(k) fee class actions.
Ada’s class action experience includes unique procedural issues including sustaining removal of cases to federal court on preemption and Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA) grounds, successfully opposing a named plaintiff-intervenor, obtaining Fed. R. Civ. P. 23(f) review of class certification, obtaining appellate CAFA review and reversal of a district court remand order, defeating and narrowing class certification, and negotiating and overseeing settlements in classes of up to 160,000 class members.
Ada also has significant e-discovery experience in both single-plaintiff and class action matters, including the effective and efficient management of preservation, collection, review, and production of electronically stored information (ESI), as well as aggressively navigating disputes regarding the breadth and scope of the production of ESI.
In 2019, Ada’s unique legal strategy in a a commercial airline matter was recognized for innovation by The Financial Times.
Ada also co-chairs the firm's Air and Rail specialty team, and is a member of its ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation practice group, Whistleblower team, and Health Care and Provider Fraud team.
Education
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Education
- JD, Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
Cum laude
Northwestern Law Review, articles editor
Published in Northwestern Law Review (2004)
Spring 2004 Trial Advocacy Team - BA, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Admissions
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Admissions
- Illinois
Courts
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Courts
- US Supreme Court
- US Court of Appeals, Third Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
- US District Court, District of Colorado
- US District Court, Central District of Illinois
- US District Court, Northern District of Illinois
- US District Court, Northern District of Indiana
- US District Court, Southern District of Indiana
- US District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
- US District Court, Western District of Michigan
- US District Court, Western District of Tennessee
- US District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin
Related Key Industries
Related Key Industries
EXPERIENCE
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EXPERIENCE
ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation
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Defeated class certification in a class action “stock drop” case alleging breach of fiduciary duty in connection with continuing to offer company stock in the 401(k) plan; settled case with remaining individual plaintiffs before plaintiffs deposed any defense witnesses (2011).
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Obtained summary judgment for the defendants in class action “stock drop” case alleging breach of fiduciary duty in connection with continuing to offer company stock in the 401(k) plan; judgment affirmed by the Seventh Circuit; U.S. Supreme Court denied the plaintiffs’ petition for writ of certiorari (2011).
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Defended a construction equipment manufacturer against an ERISA 401(k) fee class action case. The class of approximately 80,000 plaintiffs alleged ERISA claims for breach of fiduciary duty based on allegedly excessive fees charged to their 401(k) plan accounts; obtained transfer of venue; obtain bifurcation of discovery into class and merits discovery; class action settlement reached after defendants moved for judgment on the pleadings (2010).
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Negotiated class action settlement of ERISA class action alleging breach of fiduciary duty claims for failure to diversify company money purchase pension plan (2010).
- Negotiated class action settlement of ERISA claims that employer allegedly breached its fiduciary duties with regard to retiree medical benefits (2006).
Preemption
- On behalf of a Fortune 500 insurance company, obtained dismissal of certain state law claims as preempted by Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Act (2014).
- On behalf of a construction equipment manufacturer, plaintiff voluntarily dismissed state law claims after defendant moved to dismiss as preempted by ERISA (2012).
- On behalf of a large pharmaceutical company, obtained dismissal of state law claims for fraud, conversion and emotional distress as preempted by ERISA (2011).
- On behalf of a Fortune 100 insurance company, obtained ruling dismissing state law claims as preempted by ERISA (2010).
- On behalf of a media company, removed class action complaint to federal court based on complete ERISA preemption; plaintiffs’ motion to remand was denied (2011).
WHISTLEBLOWER
- Secured the dismissal of AIR21 whistleblower complaints against major airline (2013, 2018-21); ongoing representation in appeals before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
- Ongoing representation of major airline in appeal of dismissal of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) whistleblower complaint before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
- Secured the dismissal of a Dodd-Frank/SOX whistleblower complaint against major airline (2013); ongoing representation in appeal before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
ADA and FMLA
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of hospital, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s claims under the ADEA, ADA, and Title VII (2012).
- On behalf of major airline, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s claims of ADA and ADEA discrimination based on statute of limitations and RLA preemption (2011).
- On behalf of hospital, complete defense verdict in jury trial on the plaintiff’s ADA claim (2006).
ADEA
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of pharmaceutical company, obtained Third Circuit decision affirming district court’s dismissal of the plaintiff’s complaint alleging claims under Title VII, the ADA, ADEA and Pennsylvania Human Rights Act (2010).
TITLE VII
- On behalf of major airline, obtained summary judgment for the defendants on the plaintiff’s Title VII and Section 1981 race claims (2015).
- On behalf of hospital, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII race and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims. (2013).
- On behalf of manufacturer, obtained summary judgment for the defendant regarding the plaintiff’s claim for Title VII race discrimination (2010).
- On behalf of transportation company, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII race discrimination and retaliation claims; Second Circuit dismissed the plaintiff’s appeal (2008).
- On behalf of health care provider, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII sex discrimination claim (2006).
Related News & Insights
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Webinar
Oct 21, 2024
Webinar Recording: Strategic Insights into the Future of ERISA 401(k) Fee Litigation: Trends, Case Analysis, and Emerging Claims
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Sponsored Events
Sep 27, 2024
Seyfarth Sponsors the Wisconsin School of Business Strategic Human Resource Management Center’s SHR Symposium 2024
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Firm News
08/15/2024
220 Seyfarth Attorneys Chosen as Leaders in Their Fields by Best Lawyers in America 2025
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Media Mentions
08/12/2024
Ada Dolph Discusses GE Pension Threats Showing Concerns of Transfers to Insurers in Bloomberg Law
Select Recognition
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Select Recognition
- Listed in Best Lawyers in America (Woodward/White Inc.) for Litigation - ERISA (2023-2025)
- Recognized as a Recommended Attorney by The Legal 500 (Legalese Ltd.) (2016-2018, 2020-2024)
- Recognized as a "Labor & Employment Star" by Benchmark Litigation (Euromoney Institutional Investor) (2020-2022)
- Recognized for legal innovation by The Financial Times for unique legal strategy in defending an Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act matter brought against a major airline (2019)
- Listed in Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Thomson Reuters) (2010-2014)
Leadership & Professional Affiliations
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Leadership & Professional Affiliations
- Chicago Bar Association (Class Action Committee, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Law Committee, Alliance for Women Committee)
- American Bar Association (Section of Labor & Employment Law, Employment Discrimination Subcommittee co-chair, Employee Benefits Committee; Section of Tort Trial and Insurance Practice; Forum on Air and Space Law)
Publications
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Publications
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"EBL 2023 Update to Employee Benefits Law – Chapter 15," ABA Employee Benefits Treatise (2023)
- Co-Author, "A legal opinion of ERISA threatens to ignite class action challenges to retirement plan fees," Employee Benefit News (September 25, 2023)
- Co-Author, "ERISA Case Signals New Theories for Plaintiffs’ Bar," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 24, 2023)
- Co-Author, "Equal Access to Travel Benefits," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 29, 2022)
- "Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) Legislative Alert: Contact Your Legislator Today to Urge Passage of House Bill 559 Amending BIPA," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 19, 2021)
- Co-Author, "Landmark Biometric Privacy Victory," Case Study, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 1, 2019)
- Co-Author, "Judge Garland’s ERISA Jurisprudence Reflects His Methodical and Moderate Reputation," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 11, 2016)
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Co-Author, "New Jersey Court Affirms $192,000 Fee Award Against Whistleblower Plaintiff," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 4, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 23, 2015)
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Co-Author, "SEC Announces Third-Largest Dodd-Frank Bounty Award," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 21, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 21, 2015)
- "’Aggressive SEC Enforcement Efforts Regarding Confidentiality Agreements Will Continue," Main Justice (April 28, 2015); Trading Secrets Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015)
- "Aggressive Enforcement Efforts Will Continue After KBR, Per SEC Whistleblower Chief," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015)
- Co-Author, "SEC Cracks Down On Agreement Requiring In-House Reporting of Fraud Complaint," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 1, 2015); One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 1, 2015)
- Co-Author, "New York Attorney General Proposes State Law Counterpart to Dodd-Frank," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 10, 2015)
- Co-Author, "New Jersey Supreme Court to Review Federal Preemption of Whistleblower Claims," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 17, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Ninth Circuit Concludes Beneficiary Designation Form Not a Plan Document and Telephone Call Changed A Beneficiary," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 17, 2015)
- Co-Author, "NJ Supreme Court Considers Breadth of State Whistleblower Protections For 'Watchdog' Employees," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 22, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Railroad Ordered to Pay $225,000 in Whistleblower Action Where Employee Allegedly Lied About Prior Injuries," Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 17, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 27, 2014)
- Co-Author, "New Jersey Appellate Court Holds State Whistleblower Claim Preempted by Federal Labor Law," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 23, 2014)
- Co-Author, "'Bridgegate' Triggers Proposed Expansion of New Jersey Whistleblower Protections," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 17, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Head Says OSHA Will Lower Whistleblower’s Burden of Proof in Investigations," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 16, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 15, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Orders Asphalt Paving Company to Pay Nearly $1 Million and Reinstate Foreman and Two Drivers in Whistleblower Complaints," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 4, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Sixth Circuit Holds That To Be Enforceable, Contractual Limitations Period Must Be Stated in Benefits Denial Letter," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 21, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Agree to Coordinate Responses to Whistleblower Complaints By Private Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 7, 2014); Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 1, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 1, 2014)
- Co-Author, "ERISA Has a Whistleblower Provision? Yep." Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 19, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Interest Groups Weigh in On Significant Whistleblower New Jersey Supreme Court Case," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2014); Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 1, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Next Steps after the Supreme Court’s Expansion of SOX Whistleblower Protections to Private Companies That Contract to Perform Work with Public Companies," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 15, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Issues Its Interim Final Rule On Whistleblowers Procedures Under Dodd-Frank’s Consumer Financial Protection Act," Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 4, 2014)
- Co-Author, "DOL Proposes to Make Mandatory a Once 'Sample' Guide To Accompany ERISA Section 408(b)(2) Service Provider Disclosures to Plan Fiduciaries," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 20, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Has Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. v. Dukes Lived Up To The Hype?," SHRM Magazine (January 24, 2014)
- Co-Author, "The Jury Is In: No Jury Trials In ERISA Cases," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 10, 2013)
- Chapter Editor, 3rd Edition of Employee Benefits Law (Spring 2013 Supplement)
- Co-Author, "Tenth Circuit Affirms Holding That An 'Accidental' Oversight In a 204(h) Notice Was Neither 'Egregious' Nor a Basis for a Promissory Estoppel Claim," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 16, 2013)
- Co-Author, "Sixth Circuit Continues to March to Its Own Drummer, Reversing the Dismissal of Another 'Stock Drop' Case, While The Second Circuit Marches in a Different Direction," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 25, 2012)
- Co-Author, "Breach of Fiduciary Duty Claim Against Asset Manager For 2008 Losses Survives Motion to Dismiss Despite Later Substantial Returns," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 19, 2012)
- Co-Author, "Second Circuit Vacates ERISA Class Action Certification Based on Wal-Mart v. Dukes," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 9, 2012)
- Contributing Author, Employee Benefits Law 2010 Cumulative Supplement (2010)
- Contributing Author, 3rd Edition of Employee Benefits Law (2009)
- Contributing Editor, Railway Labor Act 2006 Supplement (2006)
Presentations
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Presentations
- Co-Presenter, “ERISA Preemption,” 2024 ERISA Basics National Institute, American Bar Association (November 19, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “Strategic Insights into the Future of ERISA 401(k) Fee Litigation: Trends, Case Analysis, and Emerging Claims,” Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 21, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “Humanity in the Workplace: Hot Topics in Global HR Law,” Strategic Human Resource Symposium (September 27, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “ERISA Updates for July 2024: Trends We’re Watching (So You Don’t Have To),” Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 15, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Decoding ERISA Fiduciary Rules in the Prescription Drug Landscape," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 16, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) Retirement Benefit Plan Litigation: Recent Cases and Issues for Plan Sponsors and Fiduciaries," Strafford (March 20, 2024)
- Panelist, “Railway Labor Act Litigation Update,” ABA Railway and Airline Labor Law Committee Midwinter Meeting (March 7, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Trends In Disability and Life Insurance Benefit Litigation," American Bar Association (February 1, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Wellness & Beyond | What’s the Prognosis for 2024?," Seyfarth Event, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 5, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Are Your ERISA Fiduciaries in the Sights of the Plaintiffs’ Bar?," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 14, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Emerging Trends in ERISA Litigation – Midyear Update 2023," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 24, 2023)
- Speaker, "ERISA Preemption," 2023 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, American Bar Association (October 12, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "BIPA (and GIPA!) Litigation and Compliance Updates," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 12, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "Coffee Talk With Benefits Episode 14: Benefit Attorneys in the Wild," Podcast, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 10, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Breaking BIPA Developments: Damages Keep Piling Up," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 21, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "The Here and Now of BIPA: Updates and Developments in Biometric Privacy," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 7, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "ERISA Civil Procedure Update," ABA EBC 2023 Midwinter (February 2, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "Hot Topics Impacting the Transportation & Logistics Industries: Labor & Employment Issues and Disruptions in the Transportation & Logistics Industries," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 7, 2022)
- Speaker, "Where We Came From and Where We're Going: What Does 2023 Have in Store for Labor & Employment Laws?," Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 6, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "Guidance on State and Local Paid Sick Leave Laws — Part IX: Unions and Leave Requirements: Examining How the Patchwork of Paid Sick Leave Laws Impacts Collective Bargaining Under the RLA and NLRA," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 30, 2022)
- Panelist, "Federal Regulation of Health Plans," 2022 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, ABA (November 3, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "The Ever-Evolving Standard of Review in ERISA Health and Disability Litigation," ABA (October 19, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) and 403(b) Plan Litigation: Recent Cases, Investment Offerings," Webinar, Strafford (September 29, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "State of the State Reactions Post-Dobbs," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 31, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "Post-Dobbs Implications for Employers and Employer Plan Sponsors," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 13, 2022)
- Presenter, "From Long-COVID to Compliance with Regulations: Trends in Health and Welfare Administration and Disability Litigation," Webinar, American Bar Association, Joint Committee on Employee Benefits (March 23, 2022)
- Speaker, "Supreme Court Hughes Ruling Stokes Increase in ERISA Class Action Fee Litigation," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 2, 2022)
- Speaker, "COVID and Long-COVID in the Workplace," 15th Annual LEL Conference, ABA (November 10, 2021)
- Panelist, "Federal Regulation of Health Plans," 2021 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, ABA (October 27, 2021)
- Speaker, "Biometric Information Privacy Act…What Illinois Employers Should Know About BIPA," 14th Annual Workers’ Compensation & Safety Conference (October 19, 2021)
- Panelist, "Labor Peace Agreements: What Illinois Employers Need to Know," Webinar, Illinois Chamber Of Commerce (August 11, 2021)
- Panelist, "Current Trends in ERISA Disability Benefits Claims Litigation," webinar presented by the ABA Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (June 29, 2021)
- Speaker, "Top Labor & Employment Issues and Disruptions for the Midwest Transportation & Logistics Industry," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 17, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) and 403(b) Plan Litigation: Recent Cases, Investment Offerings, Issues for Plan Sponsors and Fiduciaries," Strafford Webinar (April 21, 2021)
- Presenter, "Current Trends in ERISA Disability Benefits Claim Litigation," American Bar Association Section of Labor and Employment Law, Employee Benefits Committee 2021 Virtual Midwinter Meeting (February 5, 2021)
- Presenter, "Standing in ERISA Fiduciary Litigation for Plan Administrators," Strafford Webinar (December 21, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Navigating Retirement Plans: Funding, Compliance, Fiduciary Liability and Litigation Risks in a Post-Election Landscape during COVID-19," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 18, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Corporate and Plan Fiduciary Duty: Addressing COVID-19 Liability Risk," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "The Biometric Information Privacy Act In the Era of COVID-19: A Legal and Legislative Update," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 10, 2020)
- Panelist, "Recent Developments in Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act Class Actions," Webinar, Illinois Chamber Of Commerce (May 12, 2020)
- Speaker, "Benefits Claim Discovery And Full And Fair Review In A De Novo World," 2018 Midwinter Meeting, American Bar Association Employee Benefits Committee, Clearwater Beach, FL (February 10, 2018)
- Speaker, "What Are the Impacts of the Trump Administration on Employee Benefits?," 11th Annual Labor & Employment Conference, ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law, Washington, DC (November 11, 2017)
- Speaker, "Discrimination In and Interference With Employee Benefits," ERISA Basics National Institute, Chicago, IL (October 27, 2017)
- Speaker, "Anatomy of a Deposition," ERISA Basics National Institute, Chicago, IL (October 26, 2017)
- Speaker, "Anatomy of a Deposition," ERISA Litigation National Institute, Chicago, IL (June 8, 2017)
- Speaker, "Pleadings and Motions Practice in ERISA Litigation," ERISA Litigation National Institute, Chicago, IL (June 8, 2017)
- Panelist, "First 100 & Beyond," Strategy & Planning Summit For Businesses, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 18, 2020)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims Litigation: Discovery, Experts, Standard of Review and Discovery and Dispositive Motions," Advanced ERISA Benefit Claims Litigation (May 20, 2016)
- Speaker, "Pleadings and Motions Practice in ERISA Litigation," ERISA Litigation National Institute (May 19, 2016)
- Speaker, "Wellness Programs: Design, Implementation and Litigation Risks," American Bar Association, Section of Labor and Employment Law, Employee Benefits Committee, 2016 Mid-Winter Meeting (February 11, 2016)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 28, 2015)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims Litigation: From Claims Review to Standard of Review and Discovery and Dispositive Motions," American Bar Association, National Institute on ERISA Litigation (May 13, 2015)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 16, 2014)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 16, 2013)
- Speaker, "Criminal Penalties Under ERISA: Pitfalls For Unwary or Unwitting Fiduciaries," American Bar Association, Employee Benefits Committee Mid-Winter Meeting (February 21, 2013)
- Speaker, "2012 ERISA Year In Review," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 14, 2012)
- Speaker, "Review of the Most Important Litigation," ERISA Claims Litigation Program, presented by Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (October 19, 2012)
- Speaker, "Standard of Review, Discovery & Attorneys’ Fees: Where are We After Glenn, Frommert & Hardt?," 2012 Midwinter Meeting, presented by American Bar Association Section of Labor and Employment Law Employee Benefits Committee, San Diego, CA (February 15-18, 2012)
- Speaker, "Fiduciary Lessons Learned From 401(k) Fee Litigation," for the Great Lakes Area TE/GE Council Meeting (October 14, 2011)
- Presenter, "Defending ERISA Class Actions Amid an Evolving Litigation Landscape," Strafford Class Action Litigation program (September 21, 2011)
Media Mentions
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Media Mentions
- "GE Pension Threats Show Peril of Transfers to Insurers, Spinoffs,"Bloomberg Law (August 9, 2024)
- Quoted, "Pending DOL Report to Consider Pension Risk Transfer Changes," Bloomberg Law (May 14, 2024)
- Quoted, "Tax Breaks: When It Comes To Tax, May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor," Forbes (May 11, 2024)
- Quoted, "Tax Breaks: When It Comes To Tax, May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor," Shareandstocks (May 11, 2024)
- Quoted, "Benefits Groups Urge High Court To Take Up AT&T 401 (k) Suit," Law360 (May 10, 2024)
- Quoted, "AT&T Draws Allies in Bid for SCOTUS Review of 401 (k) Suit Revival," Bloomberg Law (May 10, 2024)
- Quoted, "Why a Ninth Circuit decision on excessive fees is vexing ERISA experts," International Employment Lawyer (September 26, 2023)
- Quoted, "Workers’ Compensation 2021," Illinois Business Leader Magazine (December, 2021)
- Referenced, "Week Ahead in Insurance: June 28, 2021," Reuters (June 25, 2021)
- Quoted, "Benefit Plan Fiduciaries and Service Providers Anticipating New Litigation Risks," PlanSponsor (June 15, 2021)
- Quoted, "HR Professionals Struggle over FMLA Compliance, SHRM Tells the DOL," SHRM (September 21, 2020)
- Quoted, "BIPA," Illinois Business Leader Magazine (March 21, 2020)
- Quoted, "Confidentiality Agreement Crackdown, Revisited," Human Resource Executive (April 24, 2015)
- Quoted, "Cracking Down on Confidentiality Agreements," Human Resource Executive (April 6, 2015)
- Quoted, "Whistle-Blowers, Record Number of Investigations Conducted, In 2014; 73 Percent Dismissed or Withdrawn," Bloomberg BNA Occupational Safety & Health Reporter (January 7, 2015)
- Quoted, "Record Number of Investigations Conducted In 2014; 73 Percent Dismissed or Withdrawn," Bloomberg Bureau of National Affairs (January 8, 2015)
Civic & Charitable
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Civic & Charitable
- Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC), board member (2014 to present), president of the board of directors (2019-2021, 2024 to present)
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Legal Assistance Foundation (LAF) Ambassadors’ Board, former co-chair of the board (2009-2015)
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Obtained dismissal of civil asset forfeiture matter involving innocent owner defense (2019)
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National Immigrant Justice Center (obtained political asylum for two brothers from the Democratic Republic of Congo)
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Clemency petition granted by Governor Quinn for pro bono client through Cabrini Green Legal Aid (2013)
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Served as pro bono guardian ad litem in Cook County Domestic Relations Court (2013)
- Communities in Schools of Chicago (Leadership Council, member)
Additional Information
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Additional Information
Testimony
- Testified before the Illinois House of Representatives Judiciary Committee in favor of the passage of House Bill 559, a bill to amend the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) (March 9, 2021)
Ada revels in crafting innovative, successful legal arguments for her clients’ employment challenges. Your problem is her problem, and she is a relentless advocate, whether for outright dismissal or negotiation of a favorable settlement.
More About Ada
With nearly 20 years of experience as a labor and employment litigator with Seyfarth, Ada is a trusted advisor to clients in the airline, retail, health care, and manufacturing industries. Ada’s practice focuses on advice and counsel, and innovative litigation involving:
- Complex procedural defenses including: preemption of state law claims under ERISA, Railway Labor Act, Airline Deregulation Act, Federal Aviation Act, and the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Act (SGLIA); Article III and statutory standing; statute of limitations; and administrative exhaustion requirements, among others.
- Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) claims, prevailing as lead counsel in the first BIPA case to be heard by the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
- Illinois Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) claims.
- Whistleblower claims under state law, AIR21, Dodd-Frank, and Sarbanes-Oxley.
- Discrimination claims in state and federal jurisdictions across the country, including under Title VII, ADA, Section 1981, and the ADEA, and their state law counterparts, including systemic actions brought by the EEOC.
- ERISA single- and multiplaintiff and class action matters involving denial of health, disability, life, pension, and 401(k) benefits, including defense of high-profile “stock drop,” retiree medical, and 401(k) fee class actions.
Ada’s class action experience includes unique procedural issues including sustaining removal of cases to federal court on preemption and Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA) grounds, successfully opposing a named plaintiff-intervenor, obtaining Fed. R. Civ. P. 23(f) review of class certification, obtaining appellate CAFA review and reversal of a district court remand order, defeating and narrowing class certification, and negotiating and overseeing settlements in classes of up to 160,000 class members.
Ada also has significant e-discovery experience in both single-plaintiff and class action matters, including the effective and efficient management of preservation, collection, review, and production of electronically stored information (ESI), as well as aggressively navigating disputes regarding the breadth and scope of the production of ESI.
In 2019, Ada’s unique legal strategy in a a commercial airline matter was recognized for innovation by The Financial Times.
Ada also co-chairs the firm's Air and Rail specialty team, and is a member of its ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation practice group, Whistleblower team, and Health Care and Provider Fraud team.
- Complex procedural defenses including: preemption of state law claims under ERISA, Railway Labor Act, Airline Deregulation Act, Federal Aviation Act, and the Servicemembers' Group Life Insurance Act (SGLIA); Article III and statutory standing; statute of limitations; and administrative exhaustion requirements, among others.
- Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) claims, prevailing as lead counsel in the first BIPA case to be heard by the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit.
- Illinois Genetic Information Privacy Act (GIPA) claims.
- Whistleblower claims under state law, AIR21, Dodd-Frank, and Sarbanes-Oxley.
- Discrimination claims in state and federal jurisdictions across the country, including under Title VII, ADA, Section 1981, and the ADEA, and their state law counterparts, including systemic actions brought by the EEOC.
- ERISA single- and multiplaintiff and class action matters involving denial of health, disability, life, pension, and 401(k) benefits, including defense of high-profile “stock drop,” retiree medical, and 401(k) fee class actions.
Ada’s class action experience includes unique procedural issues including sustaining removal of cases to federal court on preemption and Class Action Fairness Act (CAFA) grounds, successfully opposing a named plaintiff-intervenor, obtaining Fed. R. Civ. P. 23(f) review of class certification, obtaining appellate CAFA review and reversal of a district court remand order, defeating and narrowing class certification, and negotiating and overseeing settlements in classes of up to 160,000 class members.
Ada also has significant e-discovery experience in both single-plaintiff and class action matters, including the effective and efficient management of preservation, collection, review, and production of electronically stored information (ESI), as well as aggressively navigating disputes regarding the breadth and scope of the production of ESI.
In 2019, Ada’s unique legal strategy in a a commercial airline matter was recognized for innovation by The Financial Times.
Ada also co-chairs the firm's Air and Rail specialty team, and is a member of its ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation practice group, Whistleblower team, and Health Care and Provider Fraud team.
Education
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Education
- JD, Northwestern Pritzker School of Law
Cum laude
Northwestern Law Review, articles editor
Published in Northwestern Law Review (2004)
Spring 2004 Trial Advocacy Team - BA, University of Wisconsin - Madison
Admissions
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Admissions
- Illinois
Courts
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Courts
- US Supreme Court
- US Court of Appeals, Third Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Sixth Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
- US Court of Appeals, Ninth Circuit
- US District Court, District of Colorado
- US District Court, Central District of Illinois
- US District Court, Northern District of Illinois
- US District Court, Northern District of Indiana
- US District Court, Southern District of Indiana
- US District Court, Eastern District of Michigan
- US District Court, Western District of Michigan
- US District Court, Western District of Tennessee
- US District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin
Related Key Industries
Related Key Industries
EXPERIENCE
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EXPERIENCE
ERISA and Employee Benefits Litigation
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Defeated class certification in a class action “stock drop” case alleging breach of fiduciary duty in connection with continuing to offer company stock in the 401(k) plan; settled case with remaining individual plaintiffs before plaintiffs deposed any defense witnesses (2011).
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Obtained summary judgment for the defendants in class action “stock drop” case alleging breach of fiduciary duty in connection with continuing to offer company stock in the 401(k) plan; judgment affirmed by the Seventh Circuit; U.S. Supreme Court denied the plaintiffs’ petition for writ of certiorari (2011).
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Defended a construction equipment manufacturer against an ERISA 401(k) fee class action case. The class of approximately 80,000 plaintiffs alleged ERISA claims for breach of fiduciary duty based on allegedly excessive fees charged to their 401(k) plan accounts; obtained transfer of venue; obtain bifurcation of discovery into class and merits discovery; class action settlement reached after defendants moved for judgment on the pleadings (2010).
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Negotiated class action settlement of ERISA class action alleging breach of fiduciary duty claims for failure to diversify company money purchase pension plan (2010).
- Negotiated class action settlement of ERISA claims that employer allegedly breached its fiduciary duties with regard to retiree medical benefits (2006).
Preemption
- On behalf of a Fortune 500 insurance company, obtained dismissal of certain state law claims as preempted by Servicemembers’ Group Life Insurance Act (2014).
- On behalf of a construction equipment manufacturer, plaintiff voluntarily dismissed state law claims after defendant moved to dismiss as preempted by ERISA (2012).
- On behalf of a large pharmaceutical company, obtained dismissal of state law claims for fraud, conversion and emotional distress as preempted by ERISA (2011).
- On behalf of a Fortune 100 insurance company, obtained ruling dismissing state law claims as preempted by ERISA (2010).
- On behalf of a media company, removed class action complaint to federal court based on complete ERISA preemption; plaintiffs’ motion to remand was denied (2011).
WHISTLEBLOWER
- Secured the dismissal of AIR21 whistleblower complaints against major airline (2013, 2018-21); ongoing representation in appeals before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
- Ongoing representation of major airline in appeal of dismissal of Sarbanes-Oxley (SOX) whistleblower complaint before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
- Secured the dismissal of a Dodd-Frank/SOX whistleblower complaint against major airline (2013); ongoing representation in appeal before OSHA’s Office of Administrative Law Judges.
ADA and FMLA
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of hospital, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s claims under the ADEA, ADA, and Title VII (2012).
- On behalf of major airline, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s claims of ADA and ADEA discrimination based on statute of limitations and RLA preemption (2011).
- On behalf of hospital, complete defense verdict in jury trial on the plaintiff’s ADA claim (2006).
ADEA
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of pharmaceutical company, obtained Third Circuit decision affirming district court’s dismissal of the plaintiff’s complaint alleging claims under Title VII, the ADA, ADEA and Pennsylvania Human Rights Act (2010).
TITLE VII
- On behalf of major airline, obtained summary judgment for the defendants on the plaintiff’s Title VII and Section 1981 race claims (2015).
- On behalf of hospital, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII race and retaliation claims (2013).
- On behalf of major airline, obtained dismissal with prejudice of Title VII, ADA and ADEA discrimination and retaliation claims. (2013).
- On behalf of manufacturer, obtained summary judgment for the defendant regarding the plaintiff’s claim for Title VII race discrimination (2010).
- On behalf of transportation company, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII race discrimination and retaliation claims; Second Circuit dismissed the plaintiff’s appeal (2008).
- On behalf of health care provider, obtained summary judgment for the defendant on the plaintiff’s Title VII sex discrimination claim (2006).
Related News & Insights
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Webinar
Oct 21, 2024
Webinar Recording: Strategic Insights into the Future of ERISA 401(k) Fee Litigation: Trends, Case Analysis, and Emerging Claims
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Sponsored Events
Sep 27, 2024
Seyfarth Sponsors the Wisconsin School of Business Strategic Human Resource Management Center’s SHR Symposium 2024
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Firm News
08/15/2024
220 Seyfarth Attorneys Chosen as Leaders in Their Fields by Best Lawyers in America 2025
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Media Mentions
08/12/2024
Ada Dolph Discusses GE Pension Threats Showing Concerns of Transfers to Insurers in Bloomberg Law
Select Recognition
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Select Recognition
- Listed in Best Lawyers in America (Woodward/White Inc.) for Litigation - ERISA (2023-2025)
- Recognized as a Recommended Attorney by The Legal 500 (Legalese Ltd.) (2016-2018, 2020-2024)
- Recognized as a "Labor & Employment Star" by Benchmark Litigation (Euromoney Institutional Investor) (2020-2022)
- Recognized for legal innovation by The Financial Times for unique legal strategy in defending an Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act matter brought against a major airline (2019)
- Listed in Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Stars (Thomson Reuters) (2010-2014)
Leadership & Professional Affiliations
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Leadership & Professional Affiliations
- Chicago Bar Association (Class Action Committee, Employee Benefits Committee, Labor and Employment Law Committee, Alliance for Women Committee)
- American Bar Association (Section of Labor & Employment Law, Employment Discrimination Subcommittee co-chair, Employee Benefits Committee; Section of Tort Trial and Insurance Practice; Forum on Air and Space Law)
Publications
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Publications
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"EBL 2023 Update to Employee Benefits Law – Chapter 15," ABA Employee Benefits Treatise (2023)
- Co-Author, "A legal opinion of ERISA threatens to ignite class action challenges to retirement plan fees," Employee Benefit News (September 25, 2023)
- Co-Author, "ERISA Case Signals New Theories for Plaintiffs’ Bar," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 24, 2023)
- Co-Author, "Equal Access to Travel Benefits," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 29, 2022)
- "Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) Legislative Alert: Contact Your Legislator Today to Urge Passage of House Bill 559 Amending BIPA," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 19, 2021)
- Co-Author, "Landmark Biometric Privacy Victory," Case Study, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 1, 2019)
- Co-Author, "Judge Garland’s ERISA Jurisprudence Reflects His Methodical and Moderate Reputation," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 11, 2016)
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Co-Author, "New Jersey Court Affirms $192,000 Fee Award Against Whistleblower Plaintiff," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 4, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 23, 2015)
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Co-Author, "SEC Announces Third-Largest Dodd-Frank Bounty Award," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 21, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 21, 2015)
- "’Aggressive SEC Enforcement Efforts Regarding Confidentiality Agreements Will Continue," Main Justice (April 28, 2015); Trading Secrets Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015)
- "Aggressive Enforcement Efforts Will Continue After KBR, Per SEC Whistleblower Chief," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 22, 2015)
- Co-Author, "SEC Cracks Down On Agreement Requiring In-House Reporting of Fraud Complaint," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 1, 2015); One Minute Memo, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 1, 2015)
- Co-Author, "New York Attorney General Proposes State Law Counterpart to Dodd-Frank," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 10, 2015)
- Co-Author, "New Jersey Supreme Court to Review Federal Preemption of Whistleblower Claims," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 17, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Ninth Circuit Concludes Beneficiary Designation Form Not a Plan Document and Telephone Call Changed A Beneficiary," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 17, 2015)
- Co-Author, "NJ Supreme Court Considers Breadth of State Whistleblower Protections For 'Watchdog' Employees," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (January 22, 2015)
- Co-Author, "Railroad Ordered to Pay $225,000 in Whistleblower Action Where Employee Allegedly Lied About Prior Injuries," Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 17, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 27, 2014)
- Co-Author, "New Jersey Appellate Court Holds State Whistleblower Claim Preempted by Federal Labor Law," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 23, 2014)
- Co-Author, "'Bridgegate' Triggers Proposed Expansion of New Jersey Whistleblower Protections," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 17, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Head Says OSHA Will Lower Whistleblower’s Burden of Proof in Investigations," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 16, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 15, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Orders Asphalt Paving Company to Pay Nearly $1 Million and Reinstate Foreman and Two Drivers in Whistleblower Complaints," Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 4, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Sixth Circuit Holds That To Be Enforceable, Contractual Limitations Period Must Be Stated in Benefits Denial Letter," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 21, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA and the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Agree to Coordinate Responses to Whistleblower Complaints By Private Commercial Motor Vehicle Drivers," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 7, 2014); Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 1, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 1, 2014)
- Co-Author, "ERISA Has a Whistleblower Provision? Yep." Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 19, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Interest Groups Weigh in On Significant Whistleblower New Jersey Supreme Court Case," Legal Update, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2014); Management Alert, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2014); Workplace Whistleblower Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 1, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Next Steps after the Supreme Court’s Expansion of SOX Whistleblower Protections to Private Companies That Contract to Perform Work with Public Companies," Employment Law Lookout Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 15, 2014)
- Co-Author, "OSHA Issues Its Interim Final Rule On Whistleblowers Procedures Under Dodd-Frank’s Consumer Financial Protection Act," Workplace Safety and Environmental Law Alert Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 4, 2014)
- Co-Author, "DOL Proposes to Make Mandatory a Once 'Sample' Guide To Accompany ERISA Section 408(b)(2) Service Provider Disclosures to Plan Fiduciaries," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 20, 2014)
- Co-Author, "Has Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. v. Dukes Lived Up To The Hype?," SHRM Magazine (January 24, 2014)
- Co-Author, "The Jury Is In: No Jury Trials In ERISA Cases," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 10, 2013)
- Chapter Editor, 3rd Edition of Employee Benefits Law (Spring 2013 Supplement)
- Co-Author, "Tenth Circuit Affirms Holding That An 'Accidental' Oversight In a 204(h) Notice Was Neither 'Egregious' Nor a Basis for a Promissory Estoppel Claim," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 16, 2013)
- Co-Author, "Sixth Circuit Continues to March to Its Own Drummer, Reversing the Dismissal of Another 'Stock Drop' Case, While The Second Circuit Marches in a Different Direction," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 25, 2012)
- Co-Author, "Breach of Fiduciary Duty Claim Against Asset Manager For 2008 Losses Survives Motion to Dismiss Despite Later Substantial Returns," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 19, 2012)
- Co-Author, "Second Circuit Vacates ERISA Class Action Certification Based on Wal-Mart v. Dukes," Beneficially Yours Blog, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 9, 2012)
- Contributing Author, Employee Benefits Law 2010 Cumulative Supplement (2010)
- Contributing Author, 3rd Edition of Employee Benefits Law (2009)
- Contributing Editor, Railway Labor Act 2006 Supplement (2006)
Presentations
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Presentations
- Co-Presenter, “ERISA Preemption,” 2024 ERISA Basics National Institute, American Bar Association (November 19, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “Strategic Insights into the Future of ERISA 401(k) Fee Litigation: Trends, Case Analysis, and Emerging Claims,” Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 21, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “Humanity in the Workplace: Hot Topics in Global HR Law,” Strategic Human Resource Symposium (September 27, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, “ERISA Updates for July 2024: Trends We’re Watching (So You Don’t Have To),” Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 15, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Decoding ERISA Fiduciary Rules in the Prescription Drug Landscape," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (April 16, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) Retirement Benefit Plan Litigation: Recent Cases and Issues for Plan Sponsors and Fiduciaries," Strafford (March 20, 2024)
- Panelist, “Railway Labor Act Litigation Update,” ABA Railway and Airline Labor Law Committee Midwinter Meeting (March 7, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Trends In Disability and Life Insurance Benefit Litigation," American Bar Association (February 1, 2024)
- Co-Presenter, "Wellness & Beyond | What’s the Prognosis for 2024?," Seyfarth Event, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 5, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Are Your ERISA Fiduciaries in the Sights of the Plaintiffs’ Bar?," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 14, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Emerging Trends in ERISA Litigation – Midyear Update 2023," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (October 24, 2023)
- Speaker, "ERISA Preemption," 2023 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, American Bar Association (October 12, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "BIPA (and GIPA!) Litigation and Compliance Updates," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (September 12, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "Coffee Talk With Benefits Episode 14: Benefit Attorneys in the Wild," Podcast, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 10, 2023)
- Co-Speaker, "Breaking BIPA Developments: Damages Keep Piling Up," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (March 21, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "The Here and Now of BIPA: Updates and Developments in Biometric Privacy," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 7, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "ERISA Civil Procedure Update," ABA EBC 2023 Midwinter (February 2, 2023)
- Co-Presenter, "Hot Topics Impacting the Transportation & Logistics Industries: Labor & Employment Issues and Disruptions in the Transportation & Logistics Industries," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 7, 2022)
- Speaker, "Where We Came From and Where We're Going: What Does 2023 Have in Store for Labor & Employment Laws?," Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 6, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "Guidance on State and Local Paid Sick Leave Laws — Part IX: Unions and Leave Requirements: Examining How the Patchwork of Paid Sick Leave Laws Impacts Collective Bargaining Under the RLA and NLRA," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 30, 2022)
- Panelist, "Federal Regulation of Health Plans," 2022 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, ABA (November 3, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "The Ever-Evolving Standard of Review in ERISA Health and Disability Litigation," ABA (October 19, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) and 403(b) Plan Litigation: Recent Cases, Investment Offerings," Webinar, Strafford (September 29, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "State of the State Reactions Post-Dobbs," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (August 31, 2022)
- Co-Presenter, "Post-Dobbs Implications for Employers and Employer Plan Sponsors," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (July 13, 2022)
- Presenter, "From Long-COVID to Compliance with Regulations: Trends in Health and Welfare Administration and Disability Litigation," Webinar, American Bar Association, Joint Committee on Employee Benefits (March 23, 2022)
- Speaker, "Supreme Court Hughes Ruling Stokes Increase in ERISA Class Action Fee Litigation," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (February 2, 2022)
- Speaker, "COVID and Long-COVID in the Workplace," 15th Annual LEL Conference, ABA (November 10, 2021)
- Panelist, "Federal Regulation of Health Plans," 2021 Virtual ERISA Basics National Institute, ABA (October 27, 2021)
- Speaker, "Biometric Information Privacy Act…What Illinois Employers Should Know About BIPA," 14th Annual Workers’ Compensation & Safety Conference (October 19, 2021)
- Panelist, "Labor Peace Agreements: What Illinois Employers Need to Know," Webinar, Illinois Chamber Of Commerce (August 11, 2021)
- Panelist, "Current Trends in ERISA Disability Benefits Claims Litigation," webinar presented by the ABA Tort Trial and Insurance Practice Section (June 29, 2021)
- Speaker, "Top Labor & Employment Issues and Disruptions for the Midwest Transportation & Logistics Industry," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 17, 2021)
- Co-Presenter, "401(k) and 403(b) Plan Litigation: Recent Cases, Investment Offerings, Issues for Plan Sponsors and Fiduciaries," Strafford Webinar (April 21, 2021)
- Presenter, "Current Trends in ERISA Disability Benefits Claim Litigation," American Bar Association Section of Labor and Employment Law, Employee Benefits Committee 2021 Virtual Midwinter Meeting (February 5, 2021)
- Presenter, "Standing in ERISA Fiduciary Litigation for Plan Administrators," Strafford Webinar (December 21, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Navigating Retirement Plans: Funding, Compliance, Fiduciary Liability and Litigation Risks in a Post-Election Landscape during COVID-19," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 18, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "Corporate and Plan Fiduciary Duty: Addressing COVID-19 Liability Risk," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 18, 2020)
- Co-Presenter, "The Biometric Information Privacy Act In the Era of COVID-19: A Legal and Legislative Update," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (June 10, 2020)
- Panelist, "Recent Developments in Illinois Biometric Information Privacy Act Class Actions," Webinar, Illinois Chamber Of Commerce (May 12, 2020)
- Speaker, "Benefits Claim Discovery And Full And Fair Review In A De Novo World," 2018 Midwinter Meeting, American Bar Association Employee Benefits Committee, Clearwater Beach, FL (February 10, 2018)
- Speaker, "What Are the Impacts of the Trump Administration on Employee Benefits?," 11th Annual Labor & Employment Conference, ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law, Washington, DC (November 11, 2017)
- Speaker, "Discrimination In and Interference With Employee Benefits," ERISA Basics National Institute, Chicago, IL (October 27, 2017)
- Speaker, "Anatomy of a Deposition," ERISA Basics National Institute, Chicago, IL (October 26, 2017)
- Speaker, "Anatomy of a Deposition," ERISA Litigation National Institute, Chicago, IL (June 8, 2017)
- Speaker, "Pleadings and Motions Practice in ERISA Litigation," ERISA Litigation National Institute, Chicago, IL (June 8, 2017)
- Panelist, "First 100 & Beyond," Strategy & Planning Summit For Businesses, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (November 18, 2020)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims Litigation: Discovery, Experts, Standard of Review and Discovery and Dispositive Motions," Advanced ERISA Benefit Claims Litigation (May 20, 2016)
- Speaker, "Pleadings and Motions Practice in ERISA Litigation," ERISA Litigation National Institute (May 19, 2016)
- Speaker, "Wellness Programs: Design, Implementation and Litigation Risks," American Bar Association, Section of Labor and Employment Law, Employee Benefits Committee, 2016 Mid-Winter Meeting (February 11, 2016)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 28, 2015)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims Litigation: From Claims Review to Standard of Review and Discovery and Dispositive Motions," American Bar Association, National Institute on ERISA Litigation (May 13, 2015)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 16, 2014)
- Speaker, "Benefit Claims: Administrative Procedures," and "Benefit Claims: Litigation," American Bar Association, ERISA Basics National Institute (October 16, 2013)
- Speaker, "Criminal Penalties Under ERISA: Pitfalls For Unwary or Unwitting Fiduciaries," American Bar Association, Employee Benefits Committee Mid-Winter Meeting (February 21, 2013)
- Speaker, "2012 ERISA Year In Review," Webinar, Seyfarth Shaw LLP (December 14, 2012)
- Speaker, "Review of the Most Important Litigation," ERISA Claims Litigation Program, presented by Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (October 19, 2012)
- Speaker, "Standard of Review, Discovery & Attorneys’ Fees: Where are We After Glenn, Frommert & Hardt?," 2012 Midwinter Meeting, presented by American Bar Association Section of Labor and Employment Law Employee Benefits Committee, San Diego, CA (February 15-18, 2012)
- Speaker, "Fiduciary Lessons Learned From 401(k) Fee Litigation," for the Great Lakes Area TE/GE Council Meeting (October 14, 2011)
- Presenter, "Defending ERISA Class Actions Amid an Evolving Litigation Landscape," Strafford Class Action Litigation program (September 21, 2011)
Media Mentions
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Media Mentions
- "GE Pension Threats Show Peril of Transfers to Insurers, Spinoffs,"Bloomberg Law (August 9, 2024)
- Quoted, "Pending DOL Report to Consider Pension Risk Transfer Changes," Bloomberg Law (May 14, 2024)
- Quoted, "Tax Breaks: When It Comes To Tax, May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor," Forbes (May 11, 2024)
- Quoted, "Tax Breaks: When It Comes To Tax, May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor," Shareandstocks (May 11, 2024)
- Quoted, "Benefits Groups Urge High Court To Take Up AT&T 401 (k) Suit," Law360 (May 10, 2024)
- Quoted, "AT&T Draws Allies in Bid for SCOTUS Review of 401 (k) Suit Revival," Bloomberg Law (May 10, 2024)
- Quoted, "Why a Ninth Circuit decision on excessive fees is vexing ERISA experts," International Employment Lawyer (September 26, 2023)
- Quoted, "Workers’ Compensation 2021," Illinois Business Leader Magazine (December, 2021)
- Referenced, "Week Ahead in Insurance: June 28, 2021," Reuters (June 25, 2021)
- Quoted, "Benefit Plan Fiduciaries and Service Providers Anticipating New Litigation Risks," PlanSponsor (June 15, 2021)
- Quoted, "HR Professionals Struggle over FMLA Compliance, SHRM Tells the DOL," SHRM (September 21, 2020)
- Quoted, "BIPA," Illinois Business Leader Magazine (March 21, 2020)
- Quoted, "Confidentiality Agreement Crackdown, Revisited," Human Resource Executive (April 24, 2015)
- Quoted, "Cracking Down on Confidentiality Agreements," Human Resource Executive (April 6, 2015)
- Quoted, "Whistle-Blowers, Record Number of Investigations Conducted, In 2014; 73 Percent Dismissed or Withdrawn," Bloomberg BNA Occupational Safety & Health Reporter (January 7, 2015)
- Quoted, "Record Number of Investigations Conducted In 2014; 73 Percent Dismissed or Withdrawn," Bloomberg Bureau of National Affairs (January 8, 2015)
Civic & Charitable
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Civic & Charitable
- Connections for Abused Women and their Children (CAWC), board member (2014 to present), president of the board of directors (2019-2021, 2024 to present)
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Legal Assistance Foundation (LAF) Ambassadors’ Board, former co-chair of the board (2009-2015)
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Obtained dismissal of civil asset forfeiture matter involving innocent owner defense (2019)
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National Immigrant Justice Center (obtained political asylum for two brothers from the Democratic Republic of Congo)
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Clemency petition granted by Governor Quinn for pro bono client through Cabrini Green Legal Aid (2013)
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Served as pro bono guardian ad litem in Cook County Domestic Relations Court (2013)
- Communities in Schools of Chicago (Leadership Council, member)
Additional Information
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Additional Information
Testimony
- Testified before the Illinois House of Representatives Judiciary Committee in favor of the passage of House Bill 559, a bill to amend the Biometric Information Privacy Act (BIPA) (March 9, 2021)