D. Phil Kesler

We Know What It Is Like & We Know What To Do About It!

At the heart of every injury case I take on is a foundation of hard work, perseverance, and a dedication to assisting others—principles instilled in me from a young age.

Growing up, I found school challenging. Despite these difficulties, my mother, who was a teacher, never gave up on me. She was determined to show that I could achieve academic success, and eventually, my hearing loss was identified. With the support of my parents and committed teachers, I began to thrive academically. This boost in confidence propelled me to excel in high school, ultimately earning me a full academic scholarship to college.

Service to others also became a crucial aspect of my life. My involvement with my family and the Boy Scouts taught me the value of contributing to the community. Receiving my Eagle Scout award solidified my commitment to aiding those in need. My family’s regular involvement in preparing meals for the homeless further nurtured my lifelong dedication to service.

As I matured, my maternal grandfather, who practiced law for over 50 years, became my greatest inspiration. His joy in assisting people through tough times and his unwavering commitment to service motivated me to follow in his footsteps and pursue a career in law.

After graduating from law school, I was certain I could not work for a firm that defended the already powerful. I chose to practice plaintiff’s personal injury law—a field where I could advocate for those who genuinely needed support. I started my career at MacCloskey Kesler & Associates, dedicating my professional life to helping injury victims overcome challenges and rebuild their lives.

• Free Consultation
  No Fee Intake
• Contingent Fees
  No Fee Unless You Recover

Illinois

Supreme Court of Illinois

Since 2004

Attorney

MacCloskey Kesler and Associates

2004 - Current

I have been with the firm for over 20 years. We have become Rockford's Injury Firm.

Northern Illinois University

J.D. (2004) | Law

2001 - 2004

Wabash College

B.A. (2001) | Political Science and Speech Rhetoric

1997 - 2001

8 Figure Litigator

High Stakes Litigator

2024

Membership among 7 Figure Litigators, 8 Figure Litigators, and 9 Figure Litigators is meant to recognize the nation’s most respected and preeminent high-stakes trial lawyers based on their verifiable verdicts and/or settlements. With these strict standards based on the applicant’s objective results, less than one percent (1%) of active attorneys will qualify for membership — limiting selection to America’s Premier High-Stakes Trial Lawyers

AV

Martindale Hubbard

2014

A Martindale-Hubbell AV Preeminent rating is the highest peer review rating awarded by Martindale-Hubbell. It signifies that an attorney's peers recognize them for the highest level of professional excellence, including legal knowledge, communication skills, and ethical standards. This rating is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating that an attorney has earned the respect and confidence of their colleagues.

Illinois Trial Lawyers Association

Member

2004 - Current

Illinois State Bar Association

Member

2004 - Current

Winnebago County Bar Association

Member

2004 - Current

Arbitrator

Seventeenth Judicial Circuit of Illinois

2005