Articles From Dennis M. Lynch | Illinois State Bar Association

Recent Developments in Motions for Substitution of Judge as a Matter of Right By Dennis M. Lynch Bench and Bar, February 2026 Substitution of judge motions can be some of the most impactful motions in a case. This is especially true because if the motion is erroneously denied, all subsequent orders may be deemed void. Two recent appellate decisions have expanded the landscape of case law on substitution of judge motions and provide further guidance to judges and practitioners as to proper motion practice.

Confusing Duty and Breach of Duty in Motion Practice By Dennis M. Lynch Tort Law, October 2022 Motions to dismiss and motions for summary judgment often confuse and conflate the issue of duty and breach of duty in an attempt to rob a factual question—breach of duty—from the jury by dressing it as a legal question—duty.

Interstate trucking litigation—Deposing the Safety Director By Dennis M. Lynch Tort Law, February 2014 A highlight of some interesting topics of questioning for safety director depositions, with examples from recent cases.

Colella v. JMS: A good review of evidentiary issues, jury instructions and damages at trial By Dennis M. Lynch & Matthew M. Gannon Tort Law, May 2011 A look at the case of Colella v. JMS Trucking Co. of Ill., Inc., 403 Ill.App.3d 82 (1st Dist. 2010).

Recovering the value of “free” caretaking by an adult’s parents By Dennis M. Lynch Tort Law, March 2010 A tortfeasor cannot seek to shirk responsibility for caretaking services because the caretaking was provided by the adult’s parents, and not by some third party.

Spot an error in your article? Contact Celeste Niemann at cniemann@isba.org. For information on obtaining a copy of an article, visit the ISBA Newsletters page.

Select a Different Author