July 28, 2022
He is recognized for his accomplishments and leadership in the law.
Partner LaRue Robinson has been named among the 2022 honorees for Bloomberg Law’s “They’ve Got Next: 40 Under 40” awards. He is among the “stellar” attorneys nationwide under 40 who “represent the best of the future of the legal profession."
In a Q&A profile, LaRue, a partner in Willkie’s Litigation Department in Chicago, discussed his achievements in high-stakes disputes, the mentors that have helped him succeed in his practice, and the pride he takes in pro bono work, among other aspects of his career.
The profile highlighted his recent litigation wins, including favorably resolving a complex contractual dispute for a Fortune 500 company, where there was approximately $1 billion at stake. It also noted his record of success defending major employers in Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) class actions, and his pro bono victory overturning a conviction for a man who had spent time in prison for a law that was found to be unconstitutional.
“I’m fortunate in that my practice allows me to work on behalf of a range of clients, from multinational corporate entities to wrongly incarcerated individuals,” LaRue said. “No matter who my client is, if I can help them reach their goals, I’ve been successful.”
He also noted the role models he has had at Willkie and as a former U.S. Army prosecutor, and how they influenced his own leadership style and commitment to mentorship. He focused on the ways his Willkie colleague Amanda Amert, Chair of the ERISA Litigation Group, personifies excellence in the law.
“Without a lot of fuss or show, she expresses her commitment to the highest level of lawyering as well as mentoring the next generation of lawyers,” he said. “From her I’ve learned that you can provide incredible client service and teach others the same in an effortless, understated manner.”
LaRue also stressed the importance of taking time as a young lawyer to develop your skills and business acumen – and to always continue to learn as you progress in your career.
“The journey to being a great lawyer is a marathon, not a sprint,” LaRue said. “It takes time and patience. Everything builds on what came before and you have to embrace the learning process.”
Read Bloomberg Law’s “They’ve Got Next: 40 Under 40” profile here (subscription may be required).
