On 5/31/26, the Illinois General Assembly passed HB5228, amending several provisions of the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Act. Governor Pritzker has 60 days to approve, sign or veto the bill. Independent Medical Examinations If an IME opined on the reasonableness and necessity of treatment instead of utilizing the UR process, the […]

We are pleased to announce that Abigail Iliovici has been named an Income Member! Since joining the firm, Abby has consistently demonstrated dedication to our clients, exceptional legal ability, professionalism and a strong commitment to our collaborative firm culture. She frequently steps up to mentor and train new associates, while exhibiting a willingness […]

Congratulations to Margery Newman on receiving the ASA Chicago Lifetime Achievement Award! Of Counsel Margery Newman has been nominated to receive the ASA Chicago Lifetime Achievement Award. The Lifetime Achievement Award is a prestigious recognition presented by the Association of Subcontractors & Affiliates (ASA) Chicago to a dedicated member who […]

Please welcome our new Associates, Austin Andreas and Sophia Ateyea!   Austin Andreas, Indiana: Austin is a dedicated attorney who is known for his strategic and detail-oriented approach. He works closely with employers, insurance carriers and third-party administrators to develop efficient and effective litigation strategies. Before joining Downey & Lenkov, Austin gained […]

Income Member Brian Rosenblatt authored Chapter 14- Mediation in the IICLE’s 2026 Edition of Business and Commercial Litigation. His expertise and legal knowledge support IICLE’s mission to empower attorneys in Illinois through continuing legal education, comprehensive practice handbooks, forms, and essential legal resources that enhance legal practice across the state. View […]

Please welcome our new Associate Derek Bushman! Derek brings an aggressive yet collaborative approach to representing employers, insurers and businesses in complex litigation matters. He works closely with claims professionals and clients to efficiently manage exposure, control litigation costs and achieve favorable outcomes. He has extensive experience in resolving workers’ […]

Downey & Lenkov Welcomes its New Attorneys Cassandra Halyko, Kevin Mouayed and Jaylen Johnson! Cassandra Halyko Cassandra is a dedicated attorney who is known for her strategic and detail-oriented approach. She works closely with employers, insurance carriers and third-party administrators to develop efficient and effective litigation strategies. Before joining the […]

Downey & Lenkov Welcomes its New Attorneys Jack Fritschler and Nial Vender   Jack J. Fritschler Jack gained valuable experience clerking for a prominent Chicago plaintiffs’ personal injury firm before transitioning to defense work. His experience provides unique insight into opposing strategies to advocate for his clients. Prior to becoming […]

By: Taylar Young In a recent decision, Kordas v. Bob’s All Bright Electric Inc., 2025 IL App (3d) 240482, the Illinois Appellate Court determined that a broad interpretation of the exclusive remedy provision was appropriate when analyzing a work-related accident and subsequent civil suit. Plaintiff filed suit against his employer, […]

📣 Coming soon! The 2026 Edition of the IICLE® Spring Issue of the Workers’ Compensation. Congratulations to Income Members Brian Rosenblatt, Emily Schlecte, Marcy Bennett, Kristin Lechowicz and Associates Taylar R. Young, Esq. and Ryan Dezonno for being selected as contributing authors in the publication. Their collective expertise and legal knowledge […]