Bio
Kathleen Schmidt is a litigator who defends clients in class
actions, mass torts, and other civil litigation in federal and state court.
Kathleen has helped clients through every stage of litigation by drafting
successful dispositive motions, efficiently managing fact investigations, and
preparing witnesses for depositions and trials.
Kathleen has particular experience in data breach and cyber
litigation. She has defended clients in multiple data breach class actions, an
SEC investigation arising from a data breach, and a state attorney general suit
alleging unfair business practices related to data collection.
Before joining RSHC, Kathleen clerked for the Honorable Joan
H. Lefkow on the Northern District of Illinois, prior to which she practiced at
a large law firm in Chicago.
Experience
Clerkships
Hon. Joan H. Lefkow, Northern District of Illinois (2025-2026)
Representative Engagements
- Represented financial institution in multiple data breach class actions, winning dismissal of majority of claims, and achieving favorable settlements.
- Represented financial institution in Securities and Exchange Commission investigation into disclosures concerning a data breach, resulting in favorable settlement.
- Represented large social media company in multidistrict mass tort litigation.
- Represented underwriters in securities class actions related to alleged violations of False Claims Act.
Credentials
Education
University of Chicago Law School, J.D., 2022
Cafaro Scholar
University of Chicago Legal Forum, Executive Comments Editor
Immigrants’ Rights Clinic
Tufts University, B.A., International Relations and French, 2017, cum laude
Dean’s List (2013-2017)
Thesis High Honors
The Tufts Daily, Editor-in-Chief
Université Paris-Sorbonne, 2015-2016
Bar Admissions
U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Languages Spoken & Fluency
Community Service
Pro Bono Activities
Pro bono representation of two clients who were victims
of sexual assault, bringing one case to trial under the Illinois Gender Violence Act and securing a favorable settlement in the other.
Pro bono representation of Haitian client seeking asylumbased past persecution for their sexuality.
Pro bono representation of Congolese client seeking withholding of removal based on fear of future persecution due to their ethnicity.
Pro bono representation of immigration client who was the victim of sex trafficking, seeking U-visa, T-visa, and Convention Against Torture protection