Samuel D. Block specializes in complex class action litigation arising under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA). He represents benefit plans, plan sponsors, and ERISA fiduciaries in disputes involving excessive fees, investment strategy, denial of disability benefits, and other types of ERISA claims. Sam’s practice also includes defending employers in whistleblower lawsuits, trade secret claims, and collective actions arising under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) and related state wage-and-hour laws.
Extended Profile
Sam’s practice involves a significant amount of pro bono work. He has briefed and argued an immigration case in front of the US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit, winning a remand for his client and later winning a withholding of removal in front of the immigration judge. In addition, Sam successfully defended a school at trial in a contract dispute.
He previously worked for the City of Chicago in the Mayor's Office Fellowship Program. During law school, Sam served on Harvard Law School's Board of Student Advisers and was a finalist for the 2015 Ames Moot Court Competition.
Education
Harvard Law School, 2016, J.D., cum laude
Northwestern University, 2013, B.A., summa cum laude
Admissions
Illinois
US Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit
US District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
US District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan
US District Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin
US District Court for the District of North Dakota
