Michael D. Oppenheimer

Michael D. Oppenheimer is a highly skilled trial attorney with over 22 years of experience, specializing in high-profile litigation and civil rights advocacy. A graduate of Vanderbilt University with a Bachelor of Arts degree and the University of Cincinnati College of Law (J.D.), Mr. Oppenheimer has built an impressive legal career marked by numerous courtroom successes. He has also served as an Adjunct Professor of Trial Advocacy at Loyola University School of Law, sharing his wealth of knowledge with aspiring lawyers.

Beginning his career with a 12-year tenure at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office, Mr. Oppenheimer honed his expertise in the challenging environment of high-stakes criminal litigation. He gained national recognition for his prosecutorial work in the Ryan Harris case and has since become a formidable advocate for the defense, securing not-guilty verdicts in countless criminal trials, including three consecutive first-degree murder jury trials.

Mr. Oppenheimer’s achievements extend beyond criminal defense to civil litigation. He has successfully represented clients in over 100 federal civil rights cases, including a dramatic victory against the City of Chicago, where a jury awarded $565,000 in damages to a police officer following an unlawful raid. He has also filed impactful lawsuits, such as a wrongful conviction suit on behalf of a member of the Dixmoor 5, seeking justice for decades of imprisonment for a crime the individual did not commit.

Licensed to practice in multiple federal courts, including the Northern District of Illinois, the Western District of Michigan, and the Central District of Illinois, Mr. Oppenheimer is renowned for his relentless advocacy and exceptional cross-examination skills. His expertise spans civil rights, police misconduct, wrongful convictions, medical malpractice, and public school abuse cases.

Currently a partner since 2004, Michael D. Oppenheimer continues to dedicate his career to fighting for justice and ensuring that his clients receive the best possible representation in both criminal and civil matters.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, The Oppenheimer Firm
• Member, Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office

Licensed State

• Illinois
• Michigan

Education

• University of Cincinnati College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Vanderbilt University
  Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

Awards & Badges