McDonald Hopkins LLC welcomes two new associates to the Chicago Office

McDonald Hopkins welcomes two new associates to our Chicago office, litigation attorney Rachel Dudley and healthcare & real estate attorney, Taylor Semakula.

Rachel joins the firm's Litigation Department after spending time as a Summer Associate in 2024. Her practice focuses on advising clients across various industries on commercial litigation and general litigation matters. "I enjoy the collaboration of working with fellow attorneys to resolve disputes for our clients and adapting the strategy to a way that best serves our clients’ goals and needs. Building an intentional trial plan with your team and then executing that plan in court is very rewarding," said Rachel.

As part of the firm's commercial litigation team, Rachel works with clients to develop solutions and safeguards against claims on the front end; however, when litigation assistance is needed, she collaborates with a deep bench of attorneys to defend a client's business. 

"I’m eager to work with a group of talented and experienced litigators who can help me develop those same skills. Over my time as a summer associate, the litigation team was incredibly supportive of me and my work. They showed a commitment to helping me grow as an attorney that I’m very appreciative of."

Taylor joins the firm’s national Healthcare and Real Estate practice groups. She advises clients on a wide range of healthcare matters, including regulatory compliance, business structuring, payor relationships, and industry-specific disputes and investigations. "When I am handling client work, I focus on providing the best outcome possible for the client. I do this by placing the client’s goals at the forefront and treating each task as if it is the most important work I have done," said Taylor.

In her real estate practice, she focuses on acquisitions, dispositions, and leasing across a variety of commercial assets, including industrial, retail, office, and multi-family housing. Taylor also assists clients with development, financing, and distressed property matters.

"I chose McDonald Hopkins as my Destination Firm because of the community. Everyone at MH is welcoming, and I have gained lifelong mentors. I am most excited about working with extremely talented attorneys and honing my analytical skills."