About Jerome Robert
Jerome R — Kerkman is a shareholder at Kerkman & Dunn, a prominent law firm located at 839 N. Jefferson St., Suite 400A, Milwaukee, WI 53202. Established in Milwaukee, the firm specializes in business litigation and bankruptcy, addressing complex legal issues for its clients. Mr. Kerkman has been practicing law in Wisconsin since 1984, bringing nearly four decades of experience to his role. His extensive legal background gave him the skills necessary to navigate intricate business disputes and financial restructuring. Mr. Kerkman earned his Juris Doctor cum laude from the University of Wisconsin Law School in 1984.
Prior to pursuing his legal education, he obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Lawrence University in 1979. This unique combination of degrees reflects his diverse interests and abilities, which he applies to his legal practice. His areas of emphasis include commercial financial transactions, business restructuring, mergers and acquisitions, personal planning, and complex business litigation. Notably, he has handled cases involving wrongful competition and trade secrets, showcasing his expertise in navigating multifaceted legal challenges. Throughout his career, Mr. Kerkman has been involved in significant legal cases that demonstrate his acumen in the field. For instance, he represented the plaintiff in a breach of contract dispute that sought lost profits. The case escalated when the defendant counterclaimed for unfair competition and theft of trade secrets under California law.
Ultimately, this case culminated in a jury verdict of $500,000 for the plaintiff, underscoring Mr. Kerkman's effectiveness in litigation. Additionally, he served as lead attorney for a major unsecured creditor of a NASDAQ company, successfully obtaining a Chapter 11 trustee within one month after filing—evidence of his strategic legal approach. His legal expertise is recognized. Mr. Kerkman has been featured in the 2024 edition of The Best Lawyers in America® for his work in Bankruptcy and Creditor Debtor Rights/Insolvency and Reorganization Law. Furthermore, he has been selected to Super Lawyers for Business Bankruptcy from 2020 to 2025. These accolades reflect his commitment to excellence in his practice and his reputation among peers in the legal community.
In addition to his practice, Mr. Kerkman has actively contributed to professional associations. He has served as Co-chair of the Bankruptcy Committee and Board Member of the Eastern District of Wisconsin Bar Association since 2017. His leadership roles demonstrate his dedication to the legal profession and his desire to foster growth within the community. Previously, he was a Director of the Milwaukee Young Lawyers Association from 1988 to 1992. Outside of his professional endeavors, Mr. Kerkman enjoys downhill skiing, scuba diving, and tennis, balancing his rigorous legal career with a focus on outdoor activities.
