Richard P. Darke

Member


A formidable courtroom presence with a passionate commitment to his clients and their cases, Rick Darke matches his intuitive ability to connect with judges and juries with the enduring connections he forges with the businesses and individuals he represents in a wide range of commercial disputes.

Strategically aggressive when advantageous but always focused on achieving an optimal resolution that aligns with his clients' goals, Rick has substantial experience handling real estate, construction, energy, and healthcare-related litigation, including claims relating to partnership disputes, trade secret claims, tortious interference, privacy law, warranty claims, breach of contract, common law fraud, the United Nations Convention on Contracts for the International Sale of Goods (CISG), fraudulent transfers, legal ethics and malpractice, restrictive covenants (non-compete, non-solicitation, and confidentiality agreements), and fiduciary duty claims. He is particularly well-versed in the unique and highly specialized real estate, construction, and energy issues related to the acquisition and development of large data centers.

While never precluding the possibility of a negotiated resolution, Rick approaches every case as if it were going to trial, thereby positioning his clients for success at every point in time, whether it be on summary judgment, at trial, or on appeal. The strategies he implements and develops are not only based on his immersive understanding of the relevant facts and law but also his knowledge of his clients and how they conduct business. Collaborative by nature, Rick forges close and enduring relationships with those he represents, which provides his clients with clarity and the confidence of knowing they have an ally and advocate in their corner who will stop at nothing to protect or advance their interests.

Rick matches his relentless work ethic and zealous representation with a deeply held belief in the importance of professionalism, honesty, and service. He has always maintained an active pro bono practice, with a particular focus on protecting the rights of incarcerated individuals.

You can't effectively start work on a matter without contemplating the end of the matter. Every decision, argument, or rebuttal must be seen through the lens of how it will impact the outcome and whether it serves the client's ultimate strategic or business objectives.
    • University of Michigan Law School, J.D.
    • Western Michigan University, B.B.A.
  • Bar Admissions

    • Illinois
    • Supreme Court of the United States
    • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Court
    • U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
    • Trial Bar of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
    • U.S. District Court for the Central District of Illinois
    • U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit
    • Named an Illinois Leading Lawyer, 2013-2019

    • Recipient of the Group Award for Excellence in Pro Bono Service from the judges of the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois and the Chicago Chapter of the Federal Bar Association, 2009

    • AV® Preeminent™ Peer Review Rated by Martindale-Hubbell

Latest News and Insights

Press Releases2.11.25

Trial Attorney Richard P. Darke Joins Dykema’s Chicago Office

Dykema, a leading national law firm, today announced the addition of Richard Darke as a Member in…

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