This Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg Partner is “Super” in Courtroom and Classroom
A proud native of Louisville, Kentucky, Tonya Newman graduated with honors from the University of Louisville before attending the Chicago–Kent College of Law. During her time as a law student, she was elected to the Order of the Coif and served as the executive notes and comments editor for the Chicago–Kent Law Review.
“I worked as a legal secretary when I went back to college after taking several years off, and for a few years worked full time while attending school part time,” said Tonya. “It meant a great deal to me to be able to go back to school and work toward—and achieve—my goals. I learned that almost anything is possible with dedication and hard work.”
After she graduated from law school, Tonya joined Neal, Gerber & Eisenberg, LLP, practicing in the Litigation and Insurance Policyholder practice groups, where she represents clients in complex civil litigation, product liability, and insurance coverage matters. In 2015, she was recognized as one of the Top 50 Women Illinois Super Lawyers.
Actively engaged in pro bono legal service, as well as her community, Tonya served as a leadership council member with the Posse Foundation for four years and is a chapter member of her faith community. She also enjoys teaching middle schoolers about the impact of the constitution in real life through the Constitutional Rights Foundation’s Lawyers in the Classroom program.
Tonya is a member of the American Bar Association’s Section of Litigation’s Insurance Coverage Litigation Committee and Product Liability Committee; member of the Chicago Bar Association; co-chair of the Community Outreach Committee and a member of the board of directors of the Coalition of Women’s Initiatives in Law Firms; and a member of the board of directors of the Propane Gas Defense Association. She is also a marathon runner, triathlete, creative cook, and proud dog owner.
