Jim began fighting for the rights of injured while he was still in law school. Since that time, he has dedicated his entire legal career to justice for people who have had their lives changed by tragic injury. He joined Patrick Dwyer II’s law firm in 2007 and since that time has represented hundreds of clients from consultation through settlement or trial.
Jim and Pat formed the partnership of Coogan Gallagher in 2015. After these many years of experience, Jim understands that being injured does not make you a victim, but it can leave you feeling vulnerable, anxious, and uncertain about what to do next. That is why he is dedicated to understanding the details of your losses and working to secure your peace of mind once again. It is what fuels his enthusiasm for the hard work it takes to see a case through to securing a jury’s verdict–the ultimate statement of truth in the civil justice system. Jim practices in Chicago and throughout the State of Illinois on behalf of his clients.
Civic & Charitable Involvement: Jim serves as a Commissioner for the Park Ridge Planning & Zoning Commission, helping shape his community and helping it plan for the future. Jim has also raised money for Special Olympics of Chicago by dunking himself in the chilly February waters of Lake Michigan. Jim has been a Member of the Associate Board for the Greater Chicago Food Depository since 2015. Jim has also volunteered to support service projects around the city through his involvement in the Chicago Chapter of the Alumni Association of Boston College.
Media: Jim is a regular contributor as Legal Analyst The Ben Joravsky Show, presented by The Chicago Reader. Please see our Blog (Link) for links to past episodes. Jim has previously lent his legal expertise to radio listeners of Chicago’s WCPT 820 AM.
Personal: Jim lives with his wife and their mammals in Park Ridge, Illinois. He is an avid (though long-suffering) Bears fan and enjoys spending time with his family, learning, and yes, supporting the Bears.
Awards & Recognition
Jim was recognized by his peers as an Emerging Lawyer for 2020 and again in 2021. He was also honored by the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin, included in the 2020 group of 40 Lawyers under Forty to Watch. He has been recognized by Super Lawyers, beginning in 2022.
Bar Associations
• Chicago Bar Association (2005-present) (Volunteers on CBA’s Judicial Evaluation Committee; 2011-present)
• Illinois State Bar Association (2006-present)
• Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (2007-present)
• American Association for Justice (2008-present)
• Workers’ Compensation Lawyers’ Association (2016-present)
