Overview
Cara Lawson represents a wide range of clients in complex business disputes, with experience spanning commercial litigation, internal and government investigations, and class and mass action defense. She handles matters involving breach of contract, consumer protection statute violation, products liability, trade secrets, insurance coverage, and real estate claims in both state and federal courts.
Drawing on her broad litigation experience, Cara represents both plaintiffs and defendants in multimillion-dollar disputes at every stage, from early case assessment and strategy through discovery, trial, and appeal. She also guides clients through internal investigations and helps them navigate responses to government and third-party subpoenas.
Results
- Represented a real estate investment company in litigation involving claims of stolen trade secrets and violations of the civil Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act statute*
- Represented an infant formula manufacturer in multiple products liability matters throughout the United States involving allegations of negligence and violations of consumer protection statutes*
- Represented a financing company in litigation to recover stolen personal protective equipment, including obtaining a preliminary injunction and receivership to facilitate the recovery*
- Represented a financial services company before the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit in the appeal of the district court’s dismissal of the plaintiff’s claims for failure to arbitrate*
- Obtained judgment after a trial in California Superior Court in favor of an advertising company against breach of contract claims*
- Served as a key member of the trial team that obtained a more than $30 million trial verdict in Delaware Chancery Court for the seller in an asset purchase agreement dispute arising from the consequences of COVID-19; the judgment was affirmed by the Delaware Supreme Court*
- Obtained multiple dismissals of claims against an insurance company in coverage disputes related to COVID-19 in state and federal courts throughout the country*
- Obtained a temporary restraining order for a telecommunications provider in dispute with one of the nation’s largest hedge funds*
*Matter handled prior to joining McDermott Will & Schulte.
Recognitions
- Best Lawyers in America: Ones to Watch, Commercial Litigation, 2021-2022, 2025
Community
- Public Interest Law Initiative, Young Professionals Board, vice chair
- Chicago Bar Foundation, Young Professionals Board
