Thomas G. Siracusa, Class of 1986

Successful trial lawyer and partner at Power Rogers & Smith

A partner in the law firm Power Rogers & Smith, Thomas Siracusa has built a reputation representing seriously injured persons in medical malpractice, product liability, construction negligence and automobile accident cases. He has achieved record-setting results for his clients, including a $19.2 million settlement for a child who suffered cerebral palsy after she was administered an inappropriate dose of medication. He was also co-counsel for a $12.2 million settlement that was one of the highest medical malpractice settlements ever in Lake County, Il.

Siracusa has also published several chapters on medical malpractice and product liability for the Illinois Institute of Continuing Legal Education and the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association. He frequently speaks on trial practice and evidentiary issues and serves on the Board of Managers of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and the Board of the Birth Trauma Litigation Group of the Association of Trial Lawyers of America.

What advice would you give to young attorneys just starting out today?

To students, I would suggest that they keep an open mind. You might think you have a career path all mapped out, and that can change as you make your way through school. If you’re just starting out in the profession, my advice would be to strive to find something you really derive personal satisfaction from. Otherwise, no matter your skills, or how you benefit your clients, if you don’t get that personal satisfaction from the work you do- get out. It just won’t lead to a long or happy life in the law.

What were you like as a law student?

In class, I was pretty low-key. I wasn’t the person constantly raising his hand. I was a member of the law review and worked as a TA for the Legal Writing department, which I really enjoyed. Kent was a surprisingly social environment for me and my classmates. You could always find an accomplice if you were looking to blow off some steam!

Who is your favorite Supreme Court Justice?

Probably William Brennan. Both for his judicial philosophy and some of the opinions he wrote in the area of personal jurisdiction- his dissenting opinions, particularly.

What does your future hold?

I think much of the same as the past. I don’t have a timeline; I don’t put limits on things. I feel it’s important is to get involved in an area of practice where you can continue to develop and learn. I work with the best lawyers in the country and they’re always striving to find ways to better serve our clients and to develop their skills.

How did Chicago-Kent prepare you for your present success?

It was an atmosphere where becoming involved in the profession was encouraged and in my case, that’s what led to my career choice. It was the feeling that you should get out and experience the law. There was a real openness I felt to having students actually learn the profession, and I think that’s what got me to where I am today.

What did you think you were going to be when you grew up?

Before I went to college, I stopped off at a school to learn how to drive race cars. For a brief moment I envisioned myself behind the wheel of a Formula One car. Other than that, things just fell into place.