Richard K. Johnson

Richard K. Johnson, based in Chicago, Illinois, offers a comprehensive legal practice dedicated to representing injured workers across the state. His unique expertise lies in advocating for both labor unions and individual members in work-related injury claims. By combining the legal protections of union contracts with the statutory benefits outlined in the Illinois Workers’ Settlement Act, Richard aims to maximize compensation for his clients.

Richard has played a pivotal role in advancing the rights of injured workers, particularly in handling repetitive trauma claims. He manages cases from the Commission level up to the Illinois Supreme Court. Furthermore, Richard has contributed his expertise by writing amicus curiae briefs, or “friend of the court” briefs, to support injured workers in the Appellate and Supreme Courts of Illinois. This work, performed through the Illinois Trial Lawyers Amicus Committee and the United Auto Workers CAP Council, is provided pro bono as part of his commitment to the legal profession and those he serves.

His litigation efforts before the Workers’ Damages Commission have resulted in numerous published decisions by the Illinois Workers’ Compensation Appellate Court and the Illinois Supreme Court, all favoring injured workers. Richard has successfully litigated and settled cases against major corporations including General Motors, Mitsubishi, General Electric, R.R. Donnelley, and ThyssenKrupp.

Richard K. Johnson was recognized by Best Lawyers as the 2016 “Lawyer of the Year in Workers’ Compensation Law - Claimant.” He holds an “AV” Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, reflecting his peers' recognition of his exceptional ethics and competency in the field.