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Eleanor (Nell) C. Riordan

Eleanor (Nell) C. Riordan

Associate
Overview

Nell defends higher education clients in litigation.

Nell represents colleges and universities in a range of litigation matters, particularly those that center on civil rights issues. She regularly handles claims that arise under the First Amendment, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Title VI, Title IX, the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA), and Section 504. Nell also represents education clients in general commercial litigation, premises liability, labor and employment matters, and negligence claims.

The kind of kid who was always told she’d be a litigator, Nell knew from a young age that she wanted to be an attorney. Her undergraduate studies in sociology and criminology sparked her strong interest in civil rights. As a result, she finds working with higher education clients to be a natural fit: she loves supporting their mission and has discovered extensive overlap between civil rights and education.

Clients appreciate that Nell connects easily and communicates clearly, making sure legal advice is practical and understandable. Grounded in her early experience in the service industry as a restaurant server, she approaches the practice of law with a client-first mindset, prioritizing responsiveness and personalized attention. For Nell, her priority as an attorney is to focus on what clients need and deliver solutions that work for them. She also understands how stressful litigation can be, especially for those unfamiliar with the process, and she takes time to guide clients through each step.

Nell is committed to advocating for client interests and making sure concerns are addressed. By combining a direct approach with a focus on personalized service, Nell helps clients feel supported and prepared, no matter the challenge.

Services

Education

  • J.D., Chicago-Kent College of Law
    • magna cum laude
    • Order of the Coif
    • Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution Certificate
  • B.A., Valparaiso University

Admissions

  • Illinois
  • U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois

Professional Memberships and Certifications

  • Chicago Bar Association
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Illinois Women’s Bar Association
  • National Association of College and University Attorneys (NACUA)
Outside the Office

Nell loves working out and regularly participates in Pilates, yoga, and weightlifting. She’s recently started learning to golf and notes that it’s much harder than it looks.