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Elizabeth (Lisa) Vandesteeg

Partner in and Leader of the Litigation Practice Group

Lisa Vandesteeg is a Partner in and Leader of the firm’s Litigation Practice Group, and a member of the Financial Services & Restructuring Group. Her practice focuses on complex commercial litigation, bankruptcy, creditors’ rights, restructuring-related disputes, data security, and privacy.

Lisa represents clients in civil litigation in federal, state, and and in bankruptcy courts throughout the U.S. Her clients include secured creditors, debtors, unsecured creditors, creditors’ committees, landlords, shareholders, and businesses involved in commercial disputes, distressed business situations, workouts, and bankruptcy proceedings.

Lisa is known for helping clients bring clarity and structure to complicated and fast-moving disputes. She helps clients identify risk exposure, mitigate liability, and resolve disputes in a way that aligns with their broader business objectives. She strives to resolve disputes without litigation whenever possible. When litigation is necessary, Lisa approaches each case logically and efficiently, developing a customized strategy based on the client’s goals, risk tolerance, and definition of success. She prioritizes clear communication and practical advice throughout each stage of a matter.

Lisa also advises clients on cybersecurity, privacy compliance, and regulatory issues. She guides clients in developing and implementing information security programs tailored to their specific business needs and risk profiles and supports clients in responding to data breaches.

A Chambers-ranked attorney, Lisa has also been recognized by Super Lawyers and Lawdragon for her work in bankruptcy and restructuring litigation. Chambers noted that, according to her clients, “Lisa is a capable and competent partner, and a very effective speaker. She can bring order to a chaotic situation.” She also serves on the Board of Directors of the American Bankruptcy Institute, underscoring her national profile and deep engagement in the restructuring community.

In addition to her practice, Lisa is an active member of the firm’s Professional Development Committee, where she plays a key role in developing LP’s next generation of attorneys and leaders.

Lisa Vandesteeg Headshot

Contact

Email Me

Phone Number

+1 312 476 7650

Additional Information

Education & Admissions

Education
  • Boston College, J.D.
  • Columbia University, B.A.
Bar Admissions
  • Illinois
  • New York

Memberships

  • Board of Director of American Bankruptcy Institute
  • International Women's Insolvency & Restructuring Confederation
  • International Association of Privacy Professionals
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Chicago Bar Association

Awards

  • Illinois Super Lawyers Top 50 Women: 2020-2023
  • Illinois Super Lawyers Top 100: 2021-2025
  • Illinois Super Lawyers, 2016-2025
  • The Best Lawyers in America, 2021-2026
  • Ranked in Chambers USA, 2022-2026
  • Notable Women Lawyers, Crain’s Chicago Business, 2022
  • Lawdragon 500 Leading U.S. Bankruptcy & Restructuring Lawyers, 2020-2026
  • Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Stars, 2011-2015
  • 40 Under 40, Chicago Law Bulletin, 2017
  • 40 Under 40, America Bankruptcy Institute, 2017
  • Leading Lawyer, Leading Lawyers
  • Lawdragon 500 Leading Global Bankruptcy & Restructuring Lawyers, 2025

Q&A

  • What’s one thing someone would be surprised to know about you?
    I hate public speaking – which is a pretty substantial problem for a litigator in need of a strong courtroom presence. It took me years of practice to build up confidence and get past my fear of being the center of attention.

  • What is your favorite month of the year and why?
    October. Hands down. Fall is my favorite season, in general, with apple-picking and pumpkin-carving. The sky is still blue, but the air is cooling off. There are plenty of evenings out on the patio with a fire. And the kids are settled back into the rhythm of the school year. October is also a month of celebrations for me – wedding anniversary, birthday, and Halloween.

  • If you weren’t an attorney, what would you be?
    I’d love to be a marine biologist and underwater photographer. I am an avid SCUBA diver, having been certified for over 20 years and with more than 100 dives under my belt. There is little that makes me happier and more relaxed than spending time underwater.
    Want a few photos of some cool ocean critters? Click Here.

“Being an insolvency litigator requires work, passion and an understanding of the risks involved for a client, and ability to reach a result in an effective manner. Lisa provides streamlined service while working hard to push the ball forward toward a client’s end goal.”

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