Priya Sunkara is an associate and brings her varied experience in law, science, healthcare and research to Tressler's Litigation Practice Group. She focuses her practice on defense of corporate clients in complex litigation, environmental and toxic tort and product liability matters on both a local and national level.
Priya received her J.D. from University of Minnesota Law School and currently works out of Tressler's Chicago office.
Where are you from?
I was born in Trinidad & Tobago. My family moved to New York when I was young and that’s where I lived until college. Since then, I’ve lived in Baltimore, Chicago, Minneapolis and Dublin (for a magical semester in law school). My husband and I just bought a home in the Beverly neighborhood of Chicago. He thinks I’m a Southsider now, but I’m not quite there yet.
What was your first job?
In high school I worked at my village’s book store. It was actually called “The Village Bookstore.” It was lovely.
Do you have any unique hobbies?
I don’t know how unique it is, but I do know my way around a tennis court.
What is on your bucket list?
There are too many things to mention, especially because of the collective pause we all had to take in 2020. However, I am pregnant with my first child and the New York Knicks were in the playoffs, so I am getting a bit closer to crossing a few things off the list.
Priya pregnant with her first child!
Why did you decide to become an attorney?
While I was enrolled in my Public Policy Masters program, I realized that much of what piqued my interest concerned the law. As an immigrant, I have what some might characterize as a romantic view of the power of the U.S. Constitution. I was thrilled to be sworn in as an attorney.
What does a typical workday look like for you?
Like many of my colleagues, there is no typical workday for me. Some days I am occupied with marathon depositions, other days I might be responding to discovery or drafting reports to help clients prepare for trial. Having variety helps me to stay on my toes and keeps me interested in my practice.
What do you like most about Tressler?
It goes without saying that my colleagues are intelligent and great at what they do. Beyond that, every member of the team is kind and welcoming. I began working at Tressler in the thick of a lockdown. Although I have only met a few of the attorneys in person, I feel like I am part of the Tressler family. I think it takes a special group of people to create that type of atmosphere.
What are you most proud of, professionally and/or personally?
I am most proud of my ability to talk to anyone. From the plaintiffs we encounter, to my fellow Tressler team members and our varied clients, everyone has a unique story and I never tire of hearing from people. I also enjoy communicating with dogs. Below is a picture of my dog-child, Bailey.
Priya's "dog-child," Bailey.
Priya can be reached at psunkara@tresslerllp.com. Learn more about our attorneys by visiting www.tresslerllp.com/attorneys.
