Honoring the 2026 College of Workers' Compensation Fellows

“Congratulations to the

2026 College of Workers' Compensation Fellows."



- Attorney Howard Ankin

As attorneys, we are trained to focus on the work itself - the long hours, the careful preparation, the steady advocacy on behalf of our clients. Recognition is never the goal, but is deeply meaningful when it comes, especially when it is bestowed by respected peers and members of the judiciary who understand the dedication our profession requires.

This month, the distinguished class of 2026 will be inducted on April 18th. To be named a Fellow, based on one's experience, professionalism, and reputation, is a distinction few can claim. I was honored to be inducted into the 2024 class of the College of Workers’ Compensation Fellows, which was a moment of great pride and gratitude in my career.

The College was established to recognize attorneys across the United States who have distinguished themselves in the practice of workers' compensation law. Nominees must bring at least 20 years of experience to the field - whether representing injured workers, employers, insurers, serving as judges, or contributing through education and legislation. It is a community defined not only by skill, but by commitment to the integrity of the profession.

At Ankin Law, I work alongside an exceptional team representing clients in workers’ compensation, personal injury, medical malpractice, catastrophic injury, and wrongful death matters—always guided by excellence and compassion.

Congratulations to the class of 2026 for your continued dedication to the people we serve.

The College of Workers' Compensation Lawyers Motto: Workers' compensation is a very important field of law, if not the most important. It touches more lives than any other field of law. It involves huge sums of money. The welfare of human beings, the success of business, and the pocketbooks of consumers are affected daily by it.

Judge E.R. Mills, Singletary v. Mangham Construction 
418 S.2nd 1138 (Fla.1st DCA,1982)

Investigating Mass Torts

Social Media Addiction Lawsuits: A Brief Overview

Courts across the United States are now addressing lawsuits alleging that major social media

platforms were intentionally designed to be addictive and caused serious mental health harm —

particularly to children and teenagers. The cases are often compared to earlier tobacco litigation because they focus on whether companies engineered products to maximize use despite known risks.

The lawsuits claim platforms used features such as infinite scrolling, algorithmic content

recommendations, and persistent notifications to encourage compulsive engagement.

In other words, platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and others use features that

effectively create an atmosphere that prevents one from just stopping.

Typical Case Criteria

While each claim depends on individual facts, courts generally evaluate cases involving young users

who meet the following factors:

 • Began using the platform before age 18 

 • 18• 25 years old or younger at the time suit is filed

 • High-volume use, commonly averaging 3 or more hours per day

Documented medical or psychological harm showing serious injury, such as:

 • Depression or severe anxiety

 • Eating disorders

 • Self-harm or suicidal ideation

 • Loss of money

 • Body image disorders

Evidence frequently includes app usage data, treatment records, and documented behavioral changes.

If you or someone you know has experienced any of the above issues, contact Ankin Law for information 

on whether you qualify. Call 312.600.0000.

For more information on social media addiction, click here.

This article is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

Ankin Law eased Justin’s worries and saved his arm

Ankin Law stepped in to help Justin H. after his workplace injury wasn’t taken seriously by his employer.

After injuring his arm on the job in December 2024, Justin was told to drive himself to the doctor and was misdiagnosed with a strained biceps. When his arm turned purple, he returned and learned it was actually a complete tear requiring surgery.

Ongoing issues with his workers’ compensation claim led him to contact Ankin Law. Attorney John Powers and Legal Assistant Jennie Leon took over, guiding him through treatment and securing a settlement.

Watch Justin and John

“They handle everything so you don’t have to worry,” Justin said.
 “You can be stress-free and know the job will get done.”

Graduates and fans of the University of Illinois have had a lot to celebrate this April. Thanks to a great run in

the NCAA Tournament, the Illini men’s basketball team advanced to the Final Four this past weekend, ending a

21-year drought for the program. 

Even with a late-season slump and an early loss in the Big Ten Tournament, the Illini found their stride
at the right time in the South Region. Two wins in Greenville, South Carolina, and a pair in Houston punched

their ticket to the National Semifinals in Indianapolis. 

Howard Ankin, a graduate of the University of Illinois, is one of many celebrating the achievement of the team – and so are two of Ankin Law’s spokespeople. Illini legends Kendall Gill and Deon Thomas took some time to talk about the team’s run to the Final Four in this latest edition of “Chicagoans You Should Know.”

Watch Howard, Kendall, and Deon

Do you have a question? We're here to help. Call Ankin Law at 312.600.0000 for a Free Consultation.