Robert Harden is an associate in the firm’s Defense Base Act (DBA) and War Hazards Compensation Act (WHCA) practice, where he represents government contractors and their insurers in complex claims involving civilian employees working overseas. He works with clients across all stages of the claims process, including claim evaluation, development of defense strategy, and representation in proceedings before the U.S. Department of Labor’s administrative and judicial tribunals. Rob also supports clients in pursuing WHCA reimbursement claims, helping to assess eligibility, develop supporting records, and navigate the submission process for injuries arising from war-risk hazards.

Rob brings substantial courtroom experience to his practice from his time as an Assistant State’s Attorney with the Kane County State’s Attorney’s Office. Assigned to the DUI and Domestic Violence units, he prosecuted misdemeanor DUI and domestic battery cases and violations of orders of protection, conducted detention hearings, and presented cases to the grand jury. He also assisted in felony bench and jury trials. Earlier in his tenure, he handled a broad docket of misdemeanor and traffic matters in branch courts. Across his time in the office, Rob conducted more than 100 contested hearings, along with 32 bench trials and 18 jury trials, developing strong advocacy skills and the ability to manage demanding, fast-paced caseloads.

Rob’s commitment to service extends beyond his legal career. He served for 12 years in the Army National Guard, first with the North Dakota Army National Guard and later with the Illinois Army National Guard. Over the course of his service, he was activated for assignments throughout the United States and overseas, including a NATO exercise in Romania. His military experience informs Rob’s disciplined, team-oriented approach and provides him with a meaningful understanding of the environments and structures connected to DBA and WHCA matters.