Richard U. S. Howell P.C.

Richard “Rush” Howell is a litigation partner in Kirkland’s Chicago office. Recognized as a trial lawyer companies call when the issues are too important not to fight, Rush has significant experience serving as trial counsel for companies in high-profile restructuring and product liability cases and representing private equity sponsors and their portfolio companies in a wide array of business disputes. His practice spans commercial litigation, restructuring, data security and privacy, energy, and products liability disputes.

Rush has first chaired or co-led multiple trials for Linn Energy and Patriot Coal Corporation, and he has first-chaired arbitrations for clients including Payment Alliance Holdings. He has also successfully handled important litigation for Energy Future Holdings, Madison Dearborn, Emerald Oil, and Southcross Holdings, among others. Turnaround Management Association awarded Rush’s team the 2016 “Mega Deal of the Year” Honor for their work on the Patriot Coal restructuring.

Rush graduated cum laude from Princeton University and received his law degree from University of Virginia Law School. Between his studies, he spent several years doing improv theater, including at the renowned Improv Olympic and Second City Theatres. Rush’s clients benefit from his improv background, which, combined with his extensive trial experience, has enhanced his ability to read an audience and to relate and speak convincingly to judges and juries alike.