Andrea J. Steele

Andrea’s complex product liability practice focuses on cases with challenging medical and scientific issues. Understanding the “why” behind the product, the science and the case, drives Andrea’s defense strategy. She thinks creatively about expert development, from identifying experts to trial examination. She has developed and implemented case-specific strategy for both individual and multi-plaintiff cases through trial. 

Andrea has extensive trial team experience, including in pelvic mesh litigation resulting in multiple defense verdicts in state and federal courts. She oversaw expert discovery in multiple MDL case waves, coordinating a team of attorneys and experts across hundreds of cases at a time. She successfully briefed and developed the strategy to exclude multiple biomaterials’ experts and their testing in MDL and state courts.

Andrea oversees and conducts fact, company and expert discovery in both complex litigation and individual cases. She zeroes in on implementing case strategy from the very first deposition to create building blocks for a successful defense and resolution. Andrea also uses her trial and advocacy experience to counsel clients on best practices and risk mitigation to avoid litigation.

Andrea has also served as amicus curiae counsel in an Eighth Circuit immigration asylum case and also represents asylum-seekers in the immigration courts. She has represented criminal defendants through the Missouri Coalition for the Right to Counsel, including successful dismissal of all charges following discovery and motion practice. Through Shook’s pro bono program, she works to secure family members’ guardianships of minors.