Matthew Dowling Recognized as 2026 Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star

Plunkett Cooney partner Matthew S. Dowling has been named to the prestigious list of “Rising Stars” by Illinois Super Lawyers magazine for 2026. This recognition highlights his expertise in civil litigation, particularly in defending corporations facing complex commercial disputes and product liability claims. Dowling operates from the firm’s Chicago office, contributing to one of the Midwest’s most established full-service law firms.

The Illinois Super Lawyers list, published by Thomson Reuters, is compiled through a rigorous selection process. This includes peer nominations, independent research, and evaluations by a panel of credentialed attorneys. Candidates are assessed on twelve indicators of professional achievement and peer recognition. Notably, only 2.5 percent of eligible attorneys receive the Rising Star designation, which is reserved for those under 40 years old or licensed for ten years or less.

Dowling has been recognized as a Rising Star since 2018. His practice encompasses a diverse range of industries, including aviation, logistics, trucking, and ride-sharing. He has successfully represented clients in various legal matters, from contract disputes to catastrophic injury claims resulting from product failures and negligence related to premises accidents. Additionally, Dowling defends professionals such as attorneys, real estate agents, and contractors in malpractice claims.

His qualifications extend across multiple jurisdictions, as he is admitted to practice in Michigan as well as state and federal courts in Illinois. Dowling is an active member of several legal associations, including the American Bar Association, Illinois State Bar Association, and the State Bar of Michigan. He earned his law degree from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law in 2013 and holds an undergraduate degree from Indiana University Bloomington, completed in 2010.

Established in 1913, Plunkett Cooney is recognized as a leading provider of business law and litigation services, serving both private and public sector clients. The firm operates in seven cities across Michigan, as well as in Chicago, Illinois, Columbus, Ohio, and Indianapolis, Indiana. Plunkett Cooney has achieved the highest rating (AV) from Martindale-Hubbell, a respected peer review service. The firm has also been acknowledged by Best Lawyers as one of the nation’s leading law firms and has received the Mansfield Rule Certification Plus 2024-2025, which recognizes excellence in diversity, equity, and inclusion within the legal profession.

For further information regarding Matthew Dowling‘s selection as an “Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Star,” interested parties can contact the firm’s Director of Marketing and Business Development, John Cornwell, at (248) 901-4008 or via email at [email protected].