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Benesch Partner Erik Connolly Named a 2023 “Litigation Trailblazer” by National Law Journal

November 3, 2023

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Benesch is pleased to announce that Litigation Chair Erik Connolly has been named to the National Law Journal’s prestigious 10th annual list of General Litigation Trailblazers, recognizing him as an agent of change in the field. Known as a “notoriously tough” defamation lawyer to whom clients turn when their reputation and products have been unfairly attacked, Erik also represents clients in high-stakes, complex commercial litigation.

The National Law Journal’s selection committee was particularly impressed with Erik’s work defending Smartmatic in its high-profile defamation suit against Fox News and other defendants. In addition, Erik successfully represented a beef producer in the $6 billion “pink slime” litigation against ABC, which was recognized by media as one of the largest defamation actions in U.S. history.

“The family-owned business lost hundreds of millions in sales, laid off thousands, and shut down three of their four plants,” Erik explained to the National Law Journal. “We settled the matter during trial, with a great result for the family. The experience showed me something had to be done about misinformation and disinformation.”

It was that experience a decade ago that ignited a passion to “fight for the underdogs.”

“I see the incredible damage misinformation causes individuals and companies every day in my work,” noted Erik. “I am proud of our team’s track record of success when it comes to defending and protecting reputations. There is no better feeling than making things right for victims suffering the consequences of misinformation.”

“Erik is a true trailblazer in his field and could not be more deserving of this recognition,” said Benesch Managing Partner Gregg Eisenberg. “He represents clients in cases where the difference between winning and losing means billions of dollars and business lines operating or being shut down. We are fortunate to have him on our team, and Erik has proved time and time again that our clients are fortunate to have him on their side.”

Read The National Law Journal’s full profile on Erik here.