John Donley practiced law for 40 years in the Chicago office of leading international firm Kirkland & Ellis before retiring in 2024. Early in his career, John tried complex scientific jury trials across the country, including as Dow Corning’s national counsel for silicone breast implant litigation. John later focused on mass-tort bankruptcy cases (Babcock & Wilcox, ABB, Grace) and corporate takeover litigation (Dow Chemical), each a transformative win enabling his client to survive and indeed thrive. Throughout his career, John actively mentored young lawyers and taught trial advocacy inside and outside the firm.
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PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
RESUMÉ IN BRIEF
Education
Harvard College: B.A. in History cum laude 1979; Harvard Crimson editor
University of Chicago: J.D. cum laude 1985, Law Review; M.B.A. with honors 1985
Career
Kirkland & Ellis Associate 1985-1991, Partner 1991-2017, Of Counsel 2017-2024
Community
Trustee, Lawrence Technological University, Southfield, MI 2024-current
Member, Board of Directors, The Florida Orchestra, St. Petersburg, FL, current
Trustee of fund that contributed $57 million to early-childhood education and similar programs, before sunsetting in 2024 (Board Chair for 4 years)
RECENT ARTICLES & TALKS
Lawrence Tech Keynote: “29 Miles” (2024)
ABA Article: “Examining the Expert” (2023)
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"The ICE Trap: Deportation Without Due Process” (2022)
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