About Hurley McKenna & Mertz
Trusted Advocates. Proven Results. Unwavering Commitment.
At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, we represent people whose lives have been turned upside down by negligence, misconduct, and institutional failure. From devastating birth injuries to widespread sexual abuse coverups, our mission is clear: to deliver justice for those who need it most—and to never stop fighting until the truth is heard.
We have secured over $900 million in record-breaking verdicts and settlements for clients across the country. But our work goes beyond numbers. Our cases have led to meaningful legal reforms, exposed systemic failures, and held some of the most powerful corporations and institutions in medicine, education, and religion accountable.
Our History & Mission
A Deliberate Shift Toward Impact & Accountability
Before starting our firm, Chris Hurley practiced law at Baker & McKenzie, the largest law firm in the country. While there he worked with many well-respected lawyers and represented major hospitals, corporations, and insurance companies. Chris realized, however, that he wanted to use his talents as a trial lawyer to help people on the other side—those without the power of big corporations—who have been wrongfully injured. So in 1992 he founded his own personal injury firm, now known as Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C.
Mark and Mike joined Chris after graduating from law school in 1994 and 1996, respectively, and they have worked as a team representing injured people ever since. Today HM&M is a leading personal injury firm, known and trusted by clients and referring attorneys alike.
The lawyers and paralegals at HM&M work as a team to advance the interests of our clients in an atmosphere of trust and respect for our clients and one another. We want you to be honest with us and we pledge the same to you. We don’t promise to tell you only what you want to hear, but we do promise to always tell you the truth. Contact our experienced attorneys today.
What Sets Us Apart
With more than 35 years of experience, the team at Hurley McKenna & Mertz has built a reputation for tackling some of the country’s most complex and emotionally challenging legal cases. Our attorneys and staff have worked together for decades, guided by trust, respect, and a shared commitment to the truth.
We Listen
Every client has a story, and we take the time to hear it.
We Care
You won’t just find legal skill here—you’ll find people who fight like it’s personal.
We Lead
With a track record of record-breaking results, our trial attorneys are trusted nationwide.
Our Leadership
Our partners are more than accomplished trial lawyers—they’re principled leaders who bring compassion, clarity, and courtroom strength to every case.
Partner
Christopher T. Hurley
Christopher T. Hurley is the Founding Partner of Hurley McKenna & Mertz, P.C. and a nationally recognized trial attorney with over 35 years of experience representing clients in complex medical malpractice, personal injury, and abuse cases. He founded the firm to use his courtroom skills on behalf of individuals—not corporations—driven by a belief that every person deserves fierce advocacy and honest counsel.
Partner
Mark R. McKenna
Mark R. McKenna is a seasoned trial lawyer and Partner at Hurley McKenna & Mertz, known for securing over $130 million in verdicts and settlements for victims of medical negligence, abuse, and institutional wrongdoing. With deep Chicago roots and a personal understanding of the impact of injustice, Mark is both a fierce litigator and a trusted advocate for the families he serves.
Partner
Michael T. Mertz
Michael T. Mertz is a nationally recognized trial attorney and Partner at Hurley McKenna & Mertz, having recovered over $400 million for clients in complex injury and wrongful death cases across the country. Known for his tenacity in and out of the courtroom, Mike combines sharp legal strategy with tireless advocacy to help individuals and families find justice after life-altering harm.
Partner
Clint T. Pierce
Clint T. Pierce has devoted his career to securing justice for victims of negligence, abuse, and serious injury, trying numerous cases to verdict on behalf of individuals and families. A former Cook County Assistant State’s Attorney, he brings sharp trial skills, deep empathy, and unwavering commitment to every case he handles.
Our Team
Our associate attorneys bring energy, skill, and dedication to every case, working closely with our partners to deliver outstanding results. Each member of our team shares a deep commitment to justice and a client-first approach.
Join Our Team
At Hurley McKenna & Mertz, we’re always looking for dedicated professionals who share our passion for justice and client care. If you’re committed to making a difference through hard work, integrity, and compassion—we’d love to hear from you.
