Profile photo of Morton Denlow

Morton Denlow

Arbitrator Mediator Neutral Evaluator Special Master
Chicago, IL, United States

About

Before entering private practice in 2012, Morton Denlow presided as a United States Magistrate Judge for the Northern District of Illinois for 16 years. During his judicial tenure, he conducted over 2,000 settlement conferences across a diverse spectrum of federal litigation. His background includes 24 years of private practice as a trial and appellate lawyer, where he focused on complex commercial disputes. He is recognized for his persistent and creative approach to resolving difficult cases and has extensive experience in managing multi-party and class action matters.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Employment & Labor Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts Real Estate & Property

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
2012
United States Magistrate Judge
Northern District of Illinois
Partner
1996–2012
Dardick & Denlow
Partner
1984–1996
Sachnoff & Weaver
Associate
1972–1984
Schiff Hardin & Waite
1970–1972

Publications Leadership

  • Author of 'Settlement Conference Techniques: A Guide for the Judiciary'
  • Frequent lecturer on federal practice and alternative dispute resolution for the Federal Judicial Center
  • Adjunct Professor at Northwestern University School of Law
  • Contributor to various legal journals on mediation strategies and judicial settlement
  • Speaker at numerous ABA and Chicago Bar Association seminars

Positioning Takeaways

A former federal judge with a proven track record of settling thousands of cases, specializing in complex commercial and class action litigation.

License & Certifications

  • Illinois State Bar
  • United States District Court
  • Northern District of Illinois
  • United States Court of Appeals
  • Seventh Circuit

Education

J.D.
Northwestern University School of Law
1970
A.B.
Washington University in St. Louis
1967

Distinction

Served as a federal magistrate judge for 16 years and is widely published on the mechanics of settlement conferences.

Reputation

He is highly regarded by legal professionals for his tenacity, patience, and ability to facilitate resolutions in high-stakes, emotionally charged, or legally complex disputes.