Jeffrey Kessler Featured in Law360’s “Titans of the Plaintiffs Bar” Series

Jeffrey Kessler, head of Winston & Strawn’s global antitrust and competition practice and co-chair of the sports law practice group, was featured in Law360’s “Titans of the Plaintiffs Bar” series on October 16, 2014.

While a large portion of Mr. Kessler's antitrust and competition practice has been in defense work, representing major companies in class action price-fixing and other antitrust lawsuits, he has become particularly famous for his plaintiffs work in the professional sports industry.

“The sports opportunity presented itself and captured my passion, dedication and imagination," Mr. Kessler said. "It’s become a fantastic vehicle for me to really try to help a lot of people. I've found it be incredibly fulfilling."

The article highlights Mr. Kessler’s career in sports law, including litigating antitrust cases that would help bring player  free agency to professional sports, his current lawsuit against the NCAA over athlete compensation, and two major pro bono cases involving South African athletes encountering obstacles in their quests for athletic achievement.

Mr. Kessler's basic philosophy toward all his cases, whether he's representing plaintiffs or defendants, is to treat his client's problems "as if they are my personal problems and to give them the same priority, respect and attention I would give to an obstacle or challenge in my own life," he said.