Monica effectively resolves product liability claims that arise from the design, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, and use of a wide range of consumer and commercial products. She understands the unique legal and business challenges companies face when defending against product defect claims and works closely with each client to develop and implement a defense strategy tailored to the specific case and their individual needs. Her approach consistently achieves efficient, favorable outcomes without unnecessary cost or delay.

Monica’s experience spans a broad range of industries — consumer goods, industrial equipment, chemical substances, drugs, medical devices, and machinery. Notably, she has defended major retailers throughout the country (particularly in Florida) in litigation involving talcum powder-related claims and is skilled in serving as national coordinating counsel in asbestos-related litigation. 

In the area of commercial litigation, she has handled matters involving home builders with respect to construction defect claims, subcontractor disputes, and class action defense. Monica has also represented municipalities and national companies in complex, multimillion-dollar contract and supplier disputes. She also defends clients in class action and multidistrict litigation, including commercial disputes, product liability claims, and data breach cases. 

Previously a partner at Barnes & Thornburg until 2012, Monica made the decision to step away from her practice to focus on raising her two children — a chapter she embraced fully before returning to the firm. During that time, she also served as a law clerk for the Honorable Sarah Evans Barker of the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Indiana. 

In addition to supporting Judge Barker’s district court docket, Monica assisted with criminal and civil appeals before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Seventh Circuit and gained firsthand insight into the judicial decision-making across a broad range of matters — including tax evasion, bankruptcy, ERISA, immigration, habeas proceedings, and Fourth, Sixth, Eighth, and Fourteenth Amendment challenges. 

That experience now plays a significant role in shaping her approach to litigation today. Monica leverages her understanding of how judges analyze cases and what arguments or evidence are most persuasive in court. By applying this perspective, she is able to craft strategies that effectively position her clients for successful outcomes, ensuring that every step taken in litigation is informed by a keen awareness of court dynamics and proven practices.