Jerry Switzer knows how to forge practical, common sense solutions to difficult business issues. With finely tuned skills and in-depth experience to resolve the most complex business and legal issues, he also is a proven litigator who knows when and how to use litigation as a tool to resolve disputes when other options may not be available.

Jerry focuses on representing senior secured lenders, mezzanine lenders and other creditors, especially in bankruptcy and insolvency situations. He also represents trustees, debtors and other constituents in bankruptcy, so he understands the competing rights and agendas of all parties fighting for their share of a limited pot. Clients rely on his 360-degree view to maximize their returns.

Education

  • University of Iowa (J.D., 1992)
    • with high distinction; Iowa Law Review, Note and Comment Editor
  • Knox College (B.A., 1988)
    • Philosophy and Economics; Dean's List

Bar Admission

  • Illinois, 1992
  • New York, 2010

Court Admissions

  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Seventh Circuit, 1993
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, 1993
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois, Trial Bar, 1998
  • U.S. District Court, Central District of Illinois, 1997
  • U.S. Court of Appeals, Tenth Circuit, 2001
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Oklahoma, 2000

Professional Affiliations

  • American Bar Association
  • American Bankruptcy Institute
  • The Chicago Bar Association
    • Subcommittee on Bankruptcy and Reorganizations
  • Turnaround Management Association

Recognition

  • Selected for inclusion in Best Lawyers in America® for Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/ Insolvency and Reorganization Law, 2018-2026
  • Ranked in Chambers USA: America's Leading Lawyers for Business, Bankruptcy/Restructuring, Illinois, 2014-2025
  • AV Rated, Martindale-Hubbell
  • Selected for inclusion in Illinois Super Lawyers for Bankruptcy and Creditor/Debtor Rights, 2006; 2010-2025
  • 12th Annual International M&A Advisor Awards, Restructuring Deal of the Year, Chapter 11 Sale of Orchids Paper Products Company
  • 12th Annual Turnaround Atlas Awards by Global M&A Network, Cross Border Special Situation M&A Deal of the Year, Cascades Acquires Substantially All Assets of Orchids Paper Products Company Including Fabrica de Papel
  • Selected for inclusion in Super Lawyers, Corporate Counsel Edition for Bankruptcy, 2010, 2016; Business Edition, 2012
  • Selected by Leading Lawyers Network as a Top Lawyer in Illinois in the area of Bankruptcy & Workout Law: Commercial, 2010-2023
  • 19th Annual Turnaround Atlas Awards by The M&A Advisor, “Divestiture of the Year” relating to Chapter 11 case of Telephone USA Investments, Inc., on behalf of client Lumen Technologies