Heyl Royster

Joseph Rust

Partner
Chicago, IL

Joined Firm in 2019

By thoroughly examining a claim from the outset and consistently reevaluating the information uncovered during the discovery process, Joe offers his clients an honest assessment of the most effective course of action for their case.

  • Experienced in Alternative Dispute Resolution
  • Graduate of Drake University Law School
Read Full Bio

Joseph Rust

Attorney in Chicago, IL

Joe proudly serves clients across the Midwest, focusing on personal injury defense, commercial litigation, trucking defense, medical malpractice, and Workers' Compensation. As a Partner in the firm's Chicago office, he is deeply committed to advocating on behalf of his clients. Joe takes the time to thoroughly investigate each claim from the beginning and continuously reassesses the information gathered throughout the discovery process. He strives to provide clients with honest assessments to determine the best course of action. Together, they collaborate to evaluate options such as discussing early settlement opportunities, preparing a case for a summary judgment motion, or proceeding to trial.

During his time at Heyl Royster, Joe has had the opportunity to represent clients in alternative dispute resolution settings, including mediation, settlement conferences, and arbitrations. He has conducted depositions for numerous plaintiffs, experts, treating physicians, co-defendants, and witnesses, gaining valuable experience trying numerous cases, including personal injury and contractual disputes.

Outside of practicing law, Joe enjoys spending quality time with his wife, daughter, and their dog. He also relishes golfing, reading, and exploring all that the Windy City has to offer.

Credentials

Education

J.D., Drake University Law School

B.A., University of Iowa, History and Political Science

Licensure(s) and Admission(s)

State Courts of Illinois

State Courts of Iowa

State Courts of Wisconsin

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Professional Affiliations

Chicago Bar Association

Defense Research Institute

Illinois State Bar Association

Iowa State Bar Association

Polk County Bar Association

State Bar of Wisconsin

Presentations/Publications

Presentations

Proper Venue and Forum Non-Conveniens,” Heyl Royster's 34th Annual Claims Handling Seminar (2023)

Publications

A Guide to Maintenance Benefits Under Section 8(a),” Below the Red Line, Heyl Royster Workers’ Compensation Newsletter (2024)

What’s My Job?: A Look at Voluntary Undertakings Considered ‘In the Course’ of Employment,” Below the Red Line, Heyl Royster Workers’ Compensation Newsletter (2021)

Can a Traveling Employee Injured During Lunch be Found Compensable?” Below the Red Line, Heyl Royster Workers’ Compensation Newsletter (2020)

Public Profile

Joe proudly serves clients across the Midwest, focusing on personal injury defense, commercial litigation, trucking defense, medical malpractice, and Workers' Compensation. As a Partner in the firm's Chicago office, he is deeply committed to advocating on behalf of his clients. Joe takes the time to thoroughly investigate each claim from the beginning and continuously reassesses the information gathered throughout the discovery process. He strives to provide clients with honest assessments to determine the best course of action. Together, they collaborate to evaluate options such as discussing early settlement opportunities, preparing a case for a summary judgment motion, or proceeding to trial.

During his time at Heyl Royster, Joe has had the opportunity to represent clients in alternative dispute resolution settings, including mediation, settlement conferences, and arbitrations. He has conducted depositions for numerous plaintiffs, experts, treating physicians, co-defendants, and witnesses, gaining valuable experience trying numerous cases, including personal injury and contractual disputes.

Outside of practicing law, Joe enjoys spending quality time with his wife, daughter, and their dog. He also relishes golfing, reading, and exploring all that the Windy City has to offer.

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