Darcy L. Proctor and Drew O’Donnell Successfully Defend Private Educational Institution Through Appellate Court
Tressler attorneys Darcy L. Proctor and Drew O’Donnell successfully defended a private school in litigation of a breach of contract dispute. Former students filed suit alleging a breach of contract claim against the school arising from students’ option to withdraw or face expulsion based on improper use of social media in violation of the school’s policy. The Tressler team moved for summary judgment in the trial court, securing a complete dismissal of the case in the school’s favor, with the court finding that the school’s decisions regarding student expulsion were not arbitrary and capricious. The victory was affirmed by the Appellate Court, and the Illinois Supreme Court has now officially denied the students’ petition for review, bringing this matter to a final and conclusive end.
This result underscores the importance of a strong, clearly defined handbook between educational institutions and students/families. This is a significant litigation win for Drew and Darcy that provides clarity and protection for private educational institutions in complex contract and policy issues.
Great job, Darcy and Drew!

Darcy L. Proctor is a partner in Tressler’s Local Government Practice Group. Darcy concentrates her practice in the defense of local governments in all aspects of tort, civil rights liability, and employment litigation. She also defends private sector employers across a variety of employment law issues.
A seasoned litigator, Darcy has taken dozens of cases to trial in both state and federal court. Clients trust Darcy to provide them with the best defense possible in court based upon her proven record of successful results. She also counsels her clients with training seminars, educating on best practices and loss prevention strategies to mitigate liability.

Drew O’Donnell serves as senior counsel within Tressler’s Litigation Practice Group. His practice is primarily focused on employment and labor law, civil rights litigation, and matters arising under Section 1983. Drew offers comprehensive legal services, encompassing both consultation and litigation, to a diverse clientele including corporations, insurance companies, and not-for-profit organizations. He also provides defense representation to governmental entities, their officials, and law enforcement officers.
About Tressler LLP
Headquartered in Chicago, with ten offices located in six states, Tressler LLP is a national law firm comprised primarily of attorneys who devote their practice to the representation of the insurance industry in coverage analysis and resolution, litigation, underwriting consultation, product development, claims management, and reinsurance.
In addition, Tressler has one of the most experienced and multi-faceted government law practices in Illinois, and has attorneys who represent clients in commercial litigation, defense litigation, corporate transactions, employment law and litigation, intellectual property, and condominium and common interest community association law.
For more information, please visit www.tresslerllp.com.
