A Vision That Became Reality in 1986

Tressler, Soderstrom, Maloney & Priess was founded in July 1986 with a clear vision: to create a best-in-class law firm focused on serving the insurance industry and its insureds. From the beginning, the firm emphasized three core principles: exceptional work quality, responsiveness to clients, and strong client relationships. Those values continue to guide the firm today.

The Firm’s Early Foundations

The firm’s principal office opened at 200 West Adams Street in Chicago, with additional offices in Wheaton, IL (DuPage County), and Waukegan, IL (Lake County). Founding partners, Jay Tressler, Bob Soderstrom, Howard Priess, Patrick Maloney, Daniel Formeller, and Bill Kindorf, launched the firm alongside 12 associates, bringing the total to 18 attorneys, supported by a full staff. Growth came quickly. In January 1987, Judy Fournie Helms became the firm’s first new partner and established a full-time presence in the Waukegan office.

200 West Adams View

Wheaton, IL Office

Early Success and Momentum

Within the firm’s first month, attorneys Patrick Maloney and Daniel Formeller defended a self-insured manufacturer in a product liability trial in central Illinois. Despite being outside their home jurisdiction, they achieved a favorable settlement after three days of trial, confirming that the new firm was on the right path.

Like any startup, the early years required careful financial management and long hours, balancing client work with building the Tressler brand. The firm’s dedication and teamwork helped the new firm quickly gain traction in the industry.

Growth and Recognition in the Legal Community

By 1987, the firm had grown to 25 attorneys, and by 1992, it had outgrown its offices at 200 West Adams and moved its Chicago headquarters into the famous Sears Tower, now known as the Willis Tower.

Tressler also quickly gained recognition in the legal community through leadership in major professional organizations. Jay Tressler served as President of the International Association of Insurance Counsel (IADC), while Patrick Maloney served as President of the Illinois Defense Counsel (IDC) and later DRI. Other Tressler attorneys, including Daniel Formeller and Jennifer Johnson, also held leadership roles within the IDC and other defense organizations.

Expanding the Firm’s Reach

Demand for Tressler’s services quickly grew, and the firm expanded beyond Illinois, opening offices in Los Angeles and New York. Tressler officially had a strong presence coast to coast and began expanding its national client base.

A Culture Built on Teamwork and Integrity

Throughout its history, Tressler has remained committed to a culture built on respect, collaboration, and strong professional relationships. Many attorneys and staff members have spent the majority of their careers with the firm, reflecting its strong sense of community.

Rather than being defined by a single case or accomplishment, the firm’s reputation comes from decades of legal advocacy, leadership in professional organizations, community service, and a commitment to doing the right thing. Tressler continues to emphasize the importance of work-life balance, teamwork, and enjoying helping others.

Honoring Legacies

As the firm celebrates 40 years, we also remember colleagues who are no longer with us. Their contributions left a lasting impact:

• Mr. John Carver
• Mr. Richard “Dick” Heytow
• Mr. Patrick Maloney
• Mr. Joseph Monteleone
• Mr. Michael W. Morrison
• Mr. Dion Joseph “DJ” Sartorio
• Ms. Si-Yong Yi

Their lives and legacies remain an important part of Tressler’s story.

Tressler Today: Creative. Decisive. Different.

Today, Tressler LLP stands as an award-winning, full-service law firm with ten offices spanning six states—California, Illinois, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania, including locations in Bolingbrook, Chicago, Los Angeles, Morristown, New York, Orange County, Pittsburgh, San Diego, San Francisco, and St. Louis.

With a broad national footprint, the firm delivers responsive client service and creative, cost-effective legal solutions across a wide range of matters. Tressler attorneys are known for their dedication to excellence. For the past eight years, A.M. Best has selected Tressler as a “Client Recommended” firm. Tressler was also recognized by Best Lawyers® as one of the “Best Law Firms” in Chicago from 2019 to 2026, and our California, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania attorneys continue to be selected to the Best Law Firms in America® and Best Lawyers® award lists. Tressler is a certified Great Place to Work® in the U.S.A. for three years in a row, a testament to the positive feedback from our team and clients. For the fourth consecutive year, Tressler was selected as a 2026 “Best Law Firm” for National Tier 1: Insurance Law by Best Lawyers®.

 

Looking Ahead

As Tressler looks to the future, the firm remains committed to opening new offices and building a dynamic team of talented professionals who are driven by collaboration, innovation, and client service. After four decades, Tressler continues to build on its founding principles while focusing on the future as a second-generation law firm. Today, Tressler combines scale with a close-knit, supportive culture, emphasizing mentorship, professional growth, and teamwork. The firm offers meaningful career opportunities nationwide, empowering individuals to develop their skills, contribute to our impactful work, and grow alongside a team dedicated to excellence. Learn more about current opportunities and career paths at Tressler by visiting our Careers page.