Anne M.  Oldenburg

Anne M. Oldenburg is a highly successful malpractice defense lawyer with extensive trial experience. The depth and breadth of her success at trial (mostly in Cook County, Illinois) is what her clients want and need. Her involvement in the defense of malpractice in and outside the courtroom has also solidified her role as a leader in her field, and she’s earned the respect of clients, the courts, her colleagues, and her opponents.

Trial and Appellate Work

Although to many, the courtroom is an unfamiliar and foreboding space, the courtroom is where Ms. Oldenburg thrives. Clients recognize and rely on her skill, comfort, and expertise in that space, and her steady hand guides professionals through the often-tumultuous pace and uncertainties of trial.

She understands that medical malpractice defense trial work is fraught with risk for her clients, but she welcomes these challenges as she readily takes on each case with a quiet resolve. 

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This frequently leads to successful verdicts or favorable outcomes. In addition, judges appreciate her professionalism and depth of experience in trial.

Not only does Ms. Oldenburg possess the tenacity of a winning trial lawyer, she also remains integrally involved when her cases are appealed. Her past clerkships in both the Illinois Appellate Court (Hon. John T. McCullough, 4^th Dist.) and Illinois Supreme Court (Hon. Benjamin K. Miller) prepared her well for oversight of cases on appeal. When clients need a second set of eyes to help them assess other pending matters—locally or nationally—they often seek the help of her special skill set. She enjoys reviewing these matters and offering her assistance by bringing fresh and innovative assessments, strategies, and defenses.

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Defending Professional Licenses

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Ms. Oldenburg’s clients also value her expertise with state licensing and disciplinary matters. The controversial nature of these cases fits perfectly with her adversarial malpractice experience in the courtroom. Her clients know she understands how to work with agencies that oversee licensure, the pending risks to their reputations and ability to practice, and the possible impact on their careers further down the road. During her years of experience in disciplinary and licensing matters, she’s formed a deep, mutual respect in her relationships with agencies such as the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Doctors, dentists, and other caregivers exhibit an incredible loyalty and appreciation for her sensitivity to their concerns and her successful results in this arena.

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Being A Leader in Her Field

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Ms. Oldenburg’s dedication to her profession and to her clients is further exemplified by her work as a frequent presenter on topics related to risk and malpractice, both locally and nationally. These presentations provide her with a unique insight into topics and issues important to the medical, dental, healthcare, and insurance communities.

Her clients know she understands the importance of continuing education, and she strives to keep professionals abreast of important topics in their respective communities. Her quest to further herself as a professional also extends to her colleagues and peers in the legal community. She engages in activities to further and foster the defense trial bar, locally and nationally. This commitment has earned her the respect of her peers, starting when she joined the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel (IDC), the Illinois chapter of the Defense Research Institute (DRI). Ms. Oldenburg quickly rose through the ranks to IDC, becoming its President and acting as the face of this well-respected organization throughout Illinois.

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Education

• The John Marshall Law School, n/k/a UIC Law School, J.D., with Distinction,1986
• Ripon College (Ripon WI), B.A. in Criminal Justice, cum laude, 1983

LAW SCHOOL HONORS/INVOLVEMENT

• Moot Court Executive Board

Admissions & Affiliations

• Illinois
• Illinois Supreme Court
• U.S. District Courts for the
  • Federal Trial Bar
  • Northern, Central, and Southern Districts of Illinois

Representative Trial and Arbitration Experience

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• Medical malpractice against emergency room physicians and hospital involving alleged failure to diagnose cervical fracture resulting in quadriparesis. Plaintiff asked jury for in excess of $50 million, and jury was hung 9-2 in favor of defense. (Cook County IL, 2024)

• Oral and maxillofacial surgery malpractice involving extraction of third molars resulting in fracture of the mandible and permanent nerve injury. Defense verdict. (Madison County IL, 2024)

• Medical malpractice against emergency room physician and hospital for alleged failure to diagnose popliteal artery injury in 16-year-old resulting in amputation above the knee. Matter resolved on day 14 of trial in amount far less than original demand. (Cook County IL, 2023)

• Medical malpractice against physician-plastic surgeon for complications arising from laser hair removal procedure. Verdict for Plaintiff for $140,000 reduced by 25% for patient contributory negligence. (Cook County IL, September 2019)
• Medical malpractice against hospital and numerous physicians for complications arising subsequent to coronary bypass surgery. Verdict for all Defendants. (Cook County IL, April 2019)
• Dental malpractice case involving full mouth reconstruction with implants. Verdict in favor of Plaintiff, but only awarded her dental expenses and found her 50% contributorily negligent. Total verdict was $35,436.20. (Cook County IL, August 2015)
• Dental malpractice case involving dental implants for maxillary reconstruction. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, June 2015)
• Medical malpractice case against hospital for wrongful death of patient who developed pressure ulcers and became septic. Verdict in favor of Plaintiff for $215,000. (Cook County IL, February 24-March 6, 2015)
• Medical malpractice case against clinic for family practice physician’s alleged failure to diagnose ear infection resulting in hearing loss. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, June 2014)
• Dental malpractice case claiming negligent tooth extraction resulting in jaw fracture and sinus perforation. Verdict in favor of Plaintiff for $95,160.75. (Cook County IL, May 2013)
• Dental malpractice case against oral and maxillofacial surgeon for failure to diagnose tongue cancer; alleged failure to diagnose oral cancer. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, April 24-May 9, 2012)
• Dental malpractice case involving complications from endodontic treatment. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, September 21-24, 2009)
• Medical malpractice case involving allegations of failure to timely diagnose cauda equina syndrome. Defendant physician voluntarily dismissed from case on day three of trial. (Co-defendants paid $3.2 million in settlement). (Cook County IL, September 19-21, 2007)
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery malpractice case involving complications from tooth extraction, including fracture and osteomyelitis. Verdict for Plaintiff. (Cook County IL, July 12-27, 2007)
• Medical malpractice obstetrical case involving allegations of failure to induce delivery, resulting in severe birth injury. Settlement on day four of trial. (Cook County IL, September 2006)
• Medical malpractice case involving allegations of failure to diagnose breast cancer. Verdict for Plaintiff. (Cook County IL, August 2–11, 2004)
• Dental malpractice case involving prosthodontic restorations. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, September 2002)
• Medical malpractice/general surgery case involving complications from laparoscopic cholecystectomy procedure. Verdict for Defendants. (McHenry County IL, April 2001)
• Oral surgery malpractice case involving complications from tooth extraction. Verdict for Defendant. (Lake County IN, April 2000)
• Dental malpractice case involving implants. Verdict for Plaintiff. (Cook County IL, Municipal Division, August 1997)
• Dental malpractice case. Verdict for Defendant (rejected by Plaintiff). (Cook County IL, Law Division, transferred to Mandatory Arbitration Division, December 1995)
• Orthodontic malpractice case involving allegations of failure to diagnose and treat temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Verdict for Defendant. (DuPage County IL, Law Division, October 1995)
• Medical malpractice case involving allegations of patient fall. Verdict for Plaintiff. (Cook County IL, Law Division, transferred to Mandatory Arbitration Division, September 1992)
• General liability case involving allegations of food poisoning. Verdict for the Defendant. (Cook County IL, Law Division, transferred to Mandatory Arbitration Division, July 1992)
• Dental malpractice claim involving orthodontic treatment. Verdict for the Defendant. (Lake County IN, Law Division, February 1992)
• Medical malpractice case involving death of patient from infection. Verdict for Defendant. (Cook County IL, Law Division, September 1991)

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Representative Appeals

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• Appeal of defense verdict involving allegations of oral surgeon’s failure to diagnose oral cancer. (Appellate Court of Illinois – First District, No. 1-12-3771)
• Amicus Brief filed on behalf of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. (Supreme Court of Illinois, No. 97946)
• Amicus Brief filed on behalf of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. (Appellate Court of Illinois – Third District, No. 3-02-0810)
• Appellate Court of Illinois – First District, No. 1-98-0622.
• Amicus Brief filed on behalf of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. Supreme Court of Illinois. (Docket No. 84117 (1998).
• Amicus Brief filed on behalf of the Illinois Association of Defense Trial Counsel. (Supreme Court of Illinois. 167 Ill.2d 449, 657 N.E.2d 997, 212 Ill. Dec. 652 (1995)

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Honors & Awards

• AV Preeminent^® Attorney by Martindale-Hubbell
• Best Lawyers in America (2020-2021, 2023-2025)
• Chicago Women in Law
  • Chicago Lawyer (2002)
• Fortress Insurance Company
  • Outstanding Service Award (2007)
• Illinois Association of Defense Trial Attorneys
  • Distinguished Member Award (2016)
  • President’s Commendation for Co-Chair, IDC 50th Anniversary Gala (2014)
  • President’s Commendation for Fall Seminar (2001)
• Illinois Leading Lawyer (2013-2024)
  • 40 Illinois Attorneys Under 40 to Watch (2001)
• Illinois State Bar Association
  • Participant, Allerton Conference on Jury Reform (2006)
• Illinois Super Lawyer (2005-2024)
  • Top 50 Female Lawyers in Illinois (2006-2008)
• Jury Verdict Reporter
  • Trial Lawyer Excellence Award for Outstanding Defense Verdict – Dental Malpractice (2012)

• Medical Professional Liability Association

  • Industry Defender Award (2023)
• OMSNIC (Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons National Insurance Company)
  • Nominated for Defense Counsel of the Year (2022)
  • Continuing Excellence Award (2012)
  • Defense Star Award (2002-2003)

News

Events & Speaking Engagements

• “Calibrate Your Risk Radar,” Chicago Dental Society (Chicago IL, 2021). (Co-presenter)
• "Legalities in the Dental Practice," Dental CE Solutions and Hehr Oral Surgery (Charleston SC, 2021).
• “Post COVID Dental Malpractice Litigation Trends and Predictions,” Medical Professional Liability Association’s 2021 Dental Virtual Workshop (2021). (Co-presenter)

• “Legalities in the Dental Industry for Restorative Clinicians,” The Aspects of Dental Practice: A Series (Fresno CA, 2017).

• “Strategies for the Patient Relationship,” The Aspects of Dental Practice: A Series (Charleston SC, 2017).

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• “Social Media in the Professional Liability Arena,” Insurance Law and Coverage Seminar (Oak Brook IL, 2017).
• “Depositions: The Good, The Bad and The Ugly,” Infinity Healthcare Management (Chicago IL, 2017).
• “Caution + Control: Reducing Employment Liability,” Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2017).
• “Strategies for the Patient Relationship,” Dental Implant Mini Residency (Atlanta GA, 2017).
• “Peer Review: Accomplishing the Goal,” Chicago Dental Society (Oak Brook IL, 2016).
• “Running from the Law,” Infinity Healthcare Management (Hillside IL, 2016).
• “Running from the Law,” Ambassador Nursing and Rehabilitation Center (Chicago IL, 2016).
• “Beyond the Science: Patient Emotions in Dentistry,” Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2016).
• “Driving the Defense: Pre-suit Analysis in the Long-Term Care Setting,” Sedgwick RN Training Seminar (Chicago IL, 2016).
• “Panel Discussion: Case Law, Legislation and Regulatory Update,” CHRMS Law Day (Chicago IL, 2015).
• “Running from the Law,” Berkeley Nursing & Rehabilitation Center (Oak Park IL, 2015).
• “Risk in the Electronic Age,” Continental Nursing Home (Chicago IL, 2015).
• “Beyond the Science: Patient Emotions in Dentistry,” Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2015).
• “Beyond the Science: Patient Emotions,” TDIC Seminar (Oak Brook, IL, 2014).
• “Running from the Law,” AAOC Quarterly Meeting, Doctors Direct Insurance (Chicago IL, 2014).
• “Risky Business: How to Avoid Lawyers and Lawsuits,” Mandelaris’ Study Club (Park Ridge IL, 2014).
• “Tale of the Tainted Tongue,” Professional Solutions Insurance Company’s dental claims, risk, and marketing staff (Clive IA, 2014).
• “High Cost of Shortcuts,” Chicago Dental Society Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2014).
• “The High Cost of Shortcuts,” TDIC Seminar (Oak Brook, IL, 2013).
• “Exploring Local and General Anesthetic Techniques in Dentistry: Guidelines, Risks and Reducing Claims Exposure,” PIAA Webinar (2013).
• “Legal Issues in the EMR,” St. Joseph Hospital (Chicago IL, 2013).
• “Issues in the LTAC Setting,” Kindred Medical Staff Meeting (Chicago IL, 2013).
• “The High Cost of Shortcuts,” Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2013).
• “High Cost of Shortcuts,” TDIC Seminar (Oak Brook IL, 2012).
• “Developing a Defense Plan,” IICLE program on Pretrial Preparation in Civil Practice (Chicago IL, 2012).
• “Good Intentions – Bad Outcomes,” Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2012).
• “Good Intentions – Bad Outcomes,” TDIC Seminar (Oak Brook IL, 2011).
• “Write is Might,” ICAHN Webinar (Chicago IL, 2011).
• “Legal Issues in the Electronic Age,” CHRMS Seminar (Schaumburg IL, 2011).
• “Dental Malpractice: Learning the Rules of the Road,” Minnesota Dental Society’s Star of the North Seminar (2011).
• “Write is Might,” Saint Joseph Hospital (Chicago IL, 2011).
• “Tale of the Tainted Tongue,” Chicago Dental Society’s Midwinter Meeting (Chicago IL, 2011).
• “Write Is Might: Running from Risk,” INA and Provena St. Joseph Medical Center (Joliet IL, 2010).
• “Legal Implications of Nursing Documentation and Communication,” INA Local Unit Conference (Galena IL, 2010).

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Blog Posts

Publications

• “Web Reputation: Setting a Patient’s Expectations,” OMS Guardian (2016). (Co-author)
• “Web Reputation: Setting a Patient’s Expectations,” DDS Guardian (2016). (Co-author)
• “Non-Party Treating Physicians: Protection of Patient Confidentiality,” PIAA Quarterly (2013). (Co-author)
• “Dental Malpractice: Running From Risk,” Dentaltown (online audio course article) (2009).
• “National Practitioner’s Data Bank” Woman Dental Journal (July 2007).

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• “Legalities,” Woman Dentist Journal/Chronicle (monthly column on risk management and related legal issues) (2006-2008). (Co-author)
• “The 10 Biggest Mistakes Physicians Make Which Prevent Them from Transferring Risk,” SEAK, Inc.’s The Biggest Legal Mistakes That Physicians Make and How to Avoid Them (2005).
• “The 10 Biggest Mistakes Physicians Make When Obtaining Insurance Coverage,” SEAK, Inc.’s The Biggest Legal Mistakes That Physicians Make and How to Avoid Them (2005).
• “Understanding the National Practitioners Data Bank,” Dental Claims and Insurance News, Vol. 13 (1998). (Co-author)
• “Evolving Trends in Medical Liability Law,” IDC Quarterly, Vol. 8, No. 3 (1998). (Co-author)
• “Legal Malpractice: Recent Developments and Trends in the Law,” IDC Quarterly, Vol. 6, No. 3 (1996). (Co-author)
• “Experts Are Not Agents and May Be Abandoned Without Threat of Missing Witness Instruction,” IDC Quarterly, Vol. 4, No. 4 (1994). (Co-author)
• “The Burden of Proof on Proximate Cause: Should Illinois Take a Chance?” IDC Quarterly, Vol. 2, No. 4 (1994). (Co-author)

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