Michael J. Schostok - Chicago, IL

Michael J. Schostok is a personal injury and medical malpractice attorney at Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C., one of Illinois’ most respected trial law firms. Since joining the firm in 2019, Mr. Schostok has built a strong reputation for representing victims of catastrophic injuries, wrongful death, and complex medical negligence with skill, compassion, and determination. His legal career reflects a deep commitment to justice, client advocacy, and carrying forward the values of his late father, Michael P. Schostok, for whom the firm is partly named.

A Legacy of Advocacy

Michael J. Schostok grew up with a front-row seat to the legal world. His father, the late Hon. Michael P. Schostok, was not only a respected attorney and judge, but also a co-founding partner of the firm Michael now proudly represents. Inspired by his father's tireless dedication to clients and the courtroom, Michael followed in his footsteps, bringing both reverence for the profession and a desire to make his own impact in the field of personal injury law.

While legacy is part of his story, Michael J. Schostok has earned his place through his own merit. From early in his legal career, he demonstrated a meticulous approach to trial preparation, a talent for persuasive advocacy, and a sincere empathy for the individuals and families he represents—qualities that continue to drive his success today.

Education & Early Legal Career

Mr. Schostok earned his Juris Doctor from Chicago-Kent College of Law in 2019. During law school, he was selected to join Chicago-Kent’s nationally recognized Trial Advocacy Team—an elite program known for preparing students for real-world courtroom excellence. Through rigorous competitions and hands-on trial simulations, he honed the skills that now serve him as a trusted courtroom advocate.

Before law school, he received his bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2016. His undergraduate studies provided a strong foundation in critical thinking, constitutional law, and civic responsibility, all of which influence his thoughtful approach to legal representation.

While still in law school, Mr. Schostok worked as a law clerk for Salvi, Schostok & Pritchard P.C. There, he assisted in a wide variety of cases, including high-stakes litigation and multi-million-dollar jury trials. His role as a clerk allowed him to learn firsthand from some of the most successful trial attorneys in Illinois. He also gained valuable experience as a law clerk at another highly regarded Chicago personal injury firm, where he contributed to major case preparation and litigation support for over two years.

Record of Results

Since becoming an attorney, Michael J. Schostok has delivered a series of impressive results for his clients—results that underscore his ability to handle complex, high-value cases with poise and precision.

Among his most notable victories:

• $15 million personal injury settlement – A life-changing result for a client who suffered permanent injuries due to the negligence of others.
• $3.9 million medical malpractice settlement – Secured on behalf of a victim of preventable medical errors.
• $3.73 million jury verdict – Obtained for a pedestrian who suffered serious injuries after being struck by a drowsy driver who veered onto the sidewalk. This case, one of Mr. Schostok’s first jury trials with the firm, exemplifies his ability to connect with juries and convey the human impact of negligence.

Each case he handles is approached with a high level of personal investment and legal rigor. Mr. Schostok understands that behind every lawsuit is a person or family whose life has been changed forever—and he takes that responsibility seriously.

Areas of Practice

Mr. Schostok focuses his legal practice on the following areas:

• Catastrophic Personal Injury – Representing clients who have suffered life-altering injuries due to motor vehicle accidents, workplace incidents, unsafe premises, and other forms of negligence.
• Medical Malpractice – Advocating for patients harmed by surgical errors, misdiagnoses, birth injuries, medication mistakes, and other failures in medical care.
• Wrongful Death – Helping surviving family members seek justice and compensation when a loved one’s death was caused by negligence or misconduct.
• Premises Liability – Handling cases involving unsafe property conditions, including slip-and-fall injuries and negligent security.
• Auto and Truck Accidents – Representing injured victims in cases involving car crashes, commercial trucking accidents, and distracted or impaired driving.

Legal Philosophy & Client Approach

Michael J. Schostok believes that being a lawyer is more than a profession—it’s a calling to serve, protect, and stand up for those who need it most. He brings a client-first mindset to every case, taking the time to listen, understand each client’s unique story, and keep them informed throughout the legal process.

His approach blends strategic legal thinking with compassionate guidance. Whether he’s preparing for trial or negotiating a settlement, his goal is always to deliver the best possible outcome for those who place their trust in him.

As he puts it:

“Being able to call myself a lawyer, the most noble profession, has so far been the greatest honor and achievement of my life – and to be able to do it in the footsteps of my father and his partner Patrick Salvi makes it even more special. I look forward to helping victims of negligence for many years to come.”

Professional Affiliations

Mr. Schostok is an active member of several prestigious legal organizations:

• Illinois Trial Lawyers Association (ITLA) – Advocating for the rights of injury victims and promoting justice within the civil legal system.
• Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) – Participating in ongoing legal education and staying engaged in the state’s legal community.
• Chicago Bar Association (CBA) – Involved in local legal initiatives, networking, and continuing legal development.

These affiliations reflect his ongoing commitment to professional growth, legal excellence, and the betterment of the legal community at large.

Community Involvement

In addition to his work in the courtroom, Mr. Schostok is deeply involved in charitable and community causes. He serves as a board member of the Michael Matters Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing financial assistance to individuals and families affected by brain cancer. The legacy of his father inspired the foundation and continues to support patients facing some of the most difficult challenges of their lives.

Mr. Schostok also volunteers his time in legal education efforts and community outreach programs, helping raise awareness about legal rights, public safety, and patient advocacy.

Personal Interests

Outside of the courtroom, Michael J. Schostok leads a full and creative life. He is passionate about music—both listening and playing—and finds inspiration in the storytelling and emotional connection that music brings. He also enjoys movies, travel, and spending time with friends and family.

His well-rounded interests help him bring empathy and balance to his practice, and his curiosity about the world translates into thoughtful, nuanced legal representation for his clients.