Eric P. Schoonveld
Managing Partner

Direct: 312.267.6203



200 South Wacker Drive
Suite 3300
Chicago, Illinois 60606
P 312.345.9600
F 312.345.9608
136 East South Temple
Suite 2450
Salt Lake City, UT 84111
P 801.320.0900
F 801.320.0896




Eric Schoonveld is a trial lawyer who currently focuses his practice on defending catastrophic injury claims around the country. Defendants in catastrophic injury cases can not afford to accept the status quo when it comes to their trial attorneys, Eric and all the attorneys at HPS are committed to finding solutions to difficult cases regardless of what stage the litigation is in.

Eric is particularly adept at assessing difficult cases in a fresh light. He often handles cases that other law firms have given up on. Eric is sought out by clients to consult on and/or try catastrophic cases when problems arise in the days, weeks or months before trial is scheduled. Eric seeks to provide each individual who he represents the assurance and confidence that they have an advocate and a voice that will stand up for them throughout the often protracted litigation process. At trial, Eric is skilled in the latest courtroom technology and frequently uses multi-media presentations.

While trial skill and resolve is essential in handling lawsuits, many cases can be resolved long before trial. Eric combines his ability to see litigation through a successful jury verdict when necessary with strong alternative dispute resolution experience to assist in obtaining timely and efficient settlements for his clients where possible.

Eric has represented healthcare providers and their employees since 1991. This representation includes all aspects of malpractice defense and various aspects of health care counseling including licensing and regulatory issues, EMTALA and credentialing issues. Eric's medical clients include local and national healthcare providers. Eric has co-authored chapters on medical malpractice and wrongful death. He has lectured before hospital and physician groups on documentation and risk management, and has taught negotiation seminars. He has been named to the "Illinois Super Lawyer" list by Chicago Magazine and has achieved the highest rating possible by Martindale Hubbell's peer review system.

Although medical negligence is a significant part of Eric's current practice, he has handled numerous products liability actions and has experience in the technical aspects of automobiles, aircraft, tools, watercraft, motorcycles, bicycles and their component parts. He has represented national and international manufacturers in numerous sectors and has experience in the procedural issues that often arise when an international manufacturer is defending cases in the US.

Eric also has experience in business disputes including contracts, non-compete clauses, intellectual property, employment, regulatory enforcement, and class actions. While this commercial litigation experience is only a small part of his current practice, it provides exposure to advanced trial technologies and other strategies necessary to try difficult cases and to counsel his clients. Additionally, Eric's trial skills have proven invaluable when handling commercial litigation matters.

Eric is licensed to practice law in Illinois and Utah. He has practiced in state and Federal Courts in Illinois, Utah, Nevada, Texas, Virginia, Indiana and elsewhere. His efficiency and trial experience have proven invaluable to clients and led to his assignment as national counsel overseeing matters in multiple jurisdictions. Eric is a member of the Federal Trial Bar. He was previously a partner at Lord, Bissell & Brook in both the Medical Litigation and Commercial Litigation Departments.

On the personal side, Eric and his family frequently travel to the firm's office in Salt Lake City, Utah. Eric's interests include skiing, motorcycling, motorcycle racing, bicycling, rock climbing, construction, solar energy and electric vehicles.

Education

Northwestern University, J.D., 1991
Trinity Christian, B.A., 1988, high honors

Bar Admissions

Illinois, 1991
Utah, 2005
(pro hac vice in multiple jurisdictions)

Courts

U.S. District Court
    N.D. Illinois, 1991
    District of Utah, 2010

Professional and Community Organizations

American Bar Association
Breakthrough Urban Ministries, Board of Directors