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Overview

A commercial litigator, Jacob delivers legal strategy, sharp analysis and strong communication skills on behalf of clients in complex cases.

Jacob counsels small businesses, Fortune 500 companies, individuals and other clients across industries – including retail, hospitality and manufacturing – in complex litigation in Wisconsin, Illinois and nationally. He represents clients in all phases of litigation in state and federal courts, including case evaluation and investigation, preparation of pleadings, depositions, dispositive motion practice, settlement negotiations, trial and appeal, in a wide range of business disputes involving claims based on:

  • Breach of contract
  • Fraud
  • Breach of fiduciary duty
  • Conversion
  • Tortious interference
  • Uniform Commercial Code (UCC)

Jacob also defends companies, including financial services companies, against statutory and contractual consumer claims in state and federal courts.

Jacob has also defended manufacturers, contractors and premises owners against negligence, product liability, premises liability and wrongful death claims and has extensive experience with high-exposure matters involving catastrophic injuries.

He enjoys the collaborative nature of commercial litigation and excels in helping parties preserve business relationships while reaching resolutions. Jacob is known for his analytical application of legal facts on the ground. Clients and attorneys also appreciate his communications skills, which he knows to be necessary in formidably advocating for clients and being responsive to their customized goals.

Industries

Services

Recognition

  • Best Lawyers: Ones to Watch, Commercial Litigation, 2021-2024; Personal Injury Litigation - Defendants, 2024

Education

  • J.D., University of Wisconsin Law School
    • cum laude
    • Jewish Law Students Association, Director of Community Affairs
  • B.A., University of Wisconsin-Madison
    • Journalism and Mass Communication, Political Science
    • Zeta Beta Tau-Alpha Kappa

Admissions

  • Wisconsin
  • Illinois
  • U.S. District Court, Western District of Wisconsin
  • U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Wisconsin
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Eighth Circuit

Professional Memberships and Certifications

  • American Bar Association (ABA)
  • State Bar of Wisconsin
  • Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA)
  • Dane County Bar Association (DCBA)
  • Chicago Bar Association (CBA)
  • Decalogue Society of Lawyers
Experience
  • Second-chaired jury trial, obtaining defense verdict in premises liability case on behalf of cemetery client in which plaintiff fell and sustained fractured hip.
  • Prepared appellate brief and obtained judgment affirming dismissal of negligence and res ipsa loquitur claims on behalf of concert venue where descending doors of freight elevator struck plaintiff.
  • Obtained summary judgment for funeral home on premises liability claims when their client fell from wheelchair.
  • Briefed and successfully argued motion to dismiss spoliation claim on behalf of distribution center where ATM involved in product liability suit shipped to customer.
  • Represented traditional financial services corporate lender when their bio-ag startup client failed. Secured equipment turnover judgment for liquidation over officer adverse claims through evidentiary hearing.
  • Prepared motion for summary judgment on respondeat superior, negligent training, retention and supervision, and intrusion upon seclusion claims, resulting in $5,000 settlement on behalf of hospital where receptionist allegedly disseminated protected health information ($850,000 demand).
  • Prepared winning motion for summary judgment pro bono on behalf of Social Security disability claimant, resulting in remand of Commissioner of Social Security's decision to deny benefits.
Outside the Office

Jacob and his wife enjoy traveling, both domestically and abroad. Recent trips have taken them to Hawaii, London, Spain, Israel and the 2020 Rose Bowl to cheer on the Wisconsin Badgers. Jacob is also a devoted Chicago Cubs fan.

Community Leadership
  • Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity, Chapter Adviser
  • Ronald McDonald House Charities