Seyfarth Shaw LLP > Chicago, > Firm Profile
Seyfarth Shaw LLP Offices
233 SOUTH WACKER DRIVE
SUITE 8000
CHICAGO, IL 60606 - 6448
ILLINOIS
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Seyfarth Shaw LLP > The Legal 500 Rankings
United States > Labor and employment > Workplace and employment counseling Tier 1
Seyfarth Shaw LLP has a particular focus on federal legislative and regulatory policy issues with attorneys regularly called upon by members of Congress on a wide variety of issues. The team uses its significant government experience on behalf of trade associations to defend US and global businesses from aggressive regulatory agency activity. Practice head David Baffa operates out of Chicago and has assisted clients with business restructuring and workforce reductions. New York-based William Perkins advises clients on all forms of discrimination and harassment claims, reduction-in-force, contract negotiations and executive employment contracts. Larry Lorber is based in Washington DC and is at the forefront of regulatory enforcement actions while Lisa Damon is a go-to resource for the C-suite on employment issues in Boston. Tracy Billows is located in Chicago and provides expertise on HR policies, processes and matters relating to leave and accommodation. Gary Friedman joined the firm in New York from Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in February 2024.Practice head(s):
David Baffa
Other key lawyers:
William Perkins; Larry Lorber; Lisa Damon; Tracy Billows; Josh Seidman; Gary Friedman
Testimonials
‘Lots of knowledge and experience at this firm. Very well connected so they are on top of any developments and trends in this practice area.’
‘Larry Lorber is outstanding. Very knowledgeable and experienced. He is an excellent counselor who has great judgment and very practical instincts.’
‘Our internal HR compliance team has worked with a few groups within Seyfarth and we are consistently happy with the level of service and care we are given, the expertise offered, and the resources that Seyfarth shares with clients. We particularly appreciate the news alerts and the topical webinars. They are critical resources we rely on heavily in the execution of our duties. Awesome job, Seyfarth!’
‘Josh Seidman is a standout. We’ve worked with him on many of our complex leave policies across multiple jurisdictions and he has been consistently responsive and thorough in his reviews/edits. Josh always provides commentary in a way that makes it easy for us to understand the issues, make policy decisions/determinations and clarify our intent. Josh is able to assist across all those jurisdictions and he is always patient, professional and friendly.’
Key clients
BNP Paribas
New York Life Insurance Company
Thomson Reuters
Lyft
Halliburton
7-Eleven
United States > Dispute resolution > E-discovery Tier 2
Seyfarth Shaw LLP‘s large team of dedicated, full-time e-discovery attorneys places key emphasis on technical expertise, with a reputation for remaining at the forefront of technological and legal developments. The department has particular strength in discovery issues related to labor litigation, and works closely alongside the firm’s market-leading employment practice. National chair Scott Carlson and deputy chair Jay Carle co-lead the group from Chicago. Carlson, who is the founder of the department, has particularly strong technical expertise, due to his prior experience as a software engineer, while Carle previously spent over a decade consulting in technology systems administration and security. Also in Chicago are Jason Priebe, who advises corporate clients on e-discovery preparedness, planning, and execution, and senior counsel Jaime Raba, a litigator with a history of working as a systems analyst and administrator. Kathleen McConnell, in San Francisco, is the lead name for data analytics in litigation.Practice head(s):
Scott Carlson; Jay Carle
Other key lawyers:
Work highlights
United States > Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters) Tier 2
The trade secrets offering at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, noted as providing a ‘high-quality service’, is experienced in the handling of complex matters domestically and internationally, representing a broad array of high-profile clients on high-stakes trade secrets matters, wherein it advises on identification, qualification and classification of trade secrets as well as litigating complex cases. A noteworthy example is the team’s representation of Karma Automotive LLC in the multi-faceted case involving alleged misappropriation by Lordstown Motors Corp. Chicago-based specialist in cutting-edge tech, electric vehicle and remote storage matters, Michael Wexler co-leads the cohort alongside Los Angeles-based Robert Milligan , who has a particular focus on data theft and protection disputes, and Boston-based Katherine Perrelli , who is a skilled litigator and leader on some of the team’s most notable matters. The ‘absolutely amazing’ Boston-based Dawn Mertineit consistently acts on key matters, particularly involving tech and electronics, whilst Houston’s Jesse Coleman frequently advises on risk management as well as litigation. LA’s Joshua Salinas is a key name to note, while Gary Friedman joined the New York office from Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in February 2024.Practice head(s):
Michael Wexler; Robert Milligan; Katherine Perrelli
Other key lawyers:
Dawn Mertineit; Jesse Coleman; Daniel Hart; Joshua Salinas; James Yu; Gary Friedman
Testimonials
‘High-quality of service, very responsive and very quick turn around. Also very friendly.’
‘Dawn Mertineit is absolutely amazing; super friendly, sharp and clear, she provides a high-quality of work and service.’
‘The Seyfarth team effectively communicated the issues of our case as well as multiple options for resolution in a clear and concise way which allowed our company to make informed and timely decisions. The Seyfarth team was very efficient with their communications and recommendations which allowed us to make decisions and to prioritize appropriately.’
‘Dawn Mertineit and James Yu were easy to work with. They were respectful of time and communicated in an effective and efficient manner. They possessed the necessary business acumen to not only provide meaningful guidance but also to appreciate and value our time.’
Key clients
Stryker Corporation
Karma Automotive
Capstone Logistics, Inc.
SeneGence International, Inc.
Whittier Trust Company
Panda Restaurant Group
LG
Lonza Houston, Inc.
OnPrem/Qvest
US Foods
Work highlights
- Represented Karma Automotive in a major trade secret matters in the United States involving electric vehicle technology against a competitor and former employees related to various claims including the misappropriation of trade secrets.
- Represented Capstone Logistics, Inc. in a trade secret and non-compete dispute involving several former executives who misappropriated valuable logistics software.
- Represented Stryker Corporation in trade secret and non-compete matters to protect its intellectual capital and workforce throughout the US in matters valued in the millions of dollars.
United States > Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: design Tier 2
Seyfarth Shaw LLP has particular expertise in handling ongoing employee benefits needs, handling the design and implementation of such plans and agreements. The firm is consistently involved in retirement plan design, handling issues such as the legislative compliance of plans, as well as health and welfare plan design. The firm represents large and well-known businesses engaged in notable industries, such as manufacturing, retail, health care, insurance and financial services. Based in the firm’s Chicago office, ‘valued and trusted advisor’ Diane Dygert has deep experience regarding the rules and regulations surrounding employee benefits, alongside considerable expertise in regard to the health and welfare space. Also based in Chicago is Jennifer Kraft, who advises clients on retirement and benefit plans, and ‘standout’ Jon Karelitz, who is experienced in executive compensation matters, as well as cutting-edge pension de-risking projects. Seattle-based Liz Deckman plays an important role in building the employee benefits capabilities for the firm on the West Coast.Practice head(s):
Diane Dygert
Other key lawyers:
Jennifer Kraft; Liz Deckman; Jon Karelitz; Benjamin Conley
Testimonials
‘Jon Karelitz is a standout partner, conveying complex information in a client-focused, practical manner.’
‘Diane Dygert is very knowledgeable in the defined contribution and welfare benefits space and is a valued and trusted advisor to our internal teams.’
United States > Labor and employment > ERISA litigation Tier 2
With a ‘strong blend of legal and practical advice during the litigation process’, Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s ERISA practice has a broad range of experience, with specific expertise in multi-employer plans and trustees, and works closely with the firm’s employee benefits litigation group as well as compliance experts in the wider employee benefits department. The practice is led by Ian Morrison and Kathleen Cahill Slaught, based in Chicago and San Francisco respectively. Morrison focuses on retirement and welfare plan matters and frequently litigates cases on behalf of clients facing 401(k) class actions. Slaught is an experienced litigator and has handled several cases relating to the health care sector and its related plans. Sam Schwartz-Fenwick, in Chicago, is a key name to note in relation to employment and employee benefit plans surrounding the LGBTQ+ community, including transgender insurance benefit coverage and has experience defending claims of employee-benefits discrimination in this area. Also in Chicago is Ada Dolph who defends plan sponsors, fiduciaries and insurers in 401(k, stock drop and retiree medical class actions with particular focus on the retail, manufacturing and aviation sectors.Practice head(s):
Kathleen Cahill Slaught; Ian Morrison
Other key lawyers:
Testimonials
‘Strong blend of legal and practical advice during the litigation process to ensure that the client can undertake proper risk assessment without unnecessary spending.’
‘Ian Morrison is very strong presenting to clients, insurers, and other interested parties to make sure key information is conveyed succinctly and effectively.
‘Sam Schwartz-Fenwick is a tireless advocate who provides behind-the-scenes advices that keeps matters running effectively.’
United States > Media, technology and telecoms > Cyber law (including data privacy and data protection) Tier 3
Cybersecurity maturing program advice, data monetization strategies, class action defense and state law compliance strategies are key areas of work for Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s global privacy and security team. Scott Carlson is the founder and chair of the e-discovery and information governance practice, focusing on both contentious and non-contentious mandates. Carlson co-leads the global privacy and security team alongside John Tomaszewski in Houston, a specialist in cross-border data privacy matters. Bart Lazar is experienced in defending clients against FTC investigations involving database security breaches, while Jason Priebe is a key name for the implementation of information governance programs and privacy compliance advice. Named lawyers are based in Chicago unless otherwise stated.Practice head(s):
Scott Carlson; John Tomaszewski
Other key lawyers:
United States > Labor and employment > Labor and employment disputes (including collective actions)
The ‘very efficient and effective’ team at Seyfarth Shaw LLP continues to be highly regarded for its experience in defeating class certification and for its successes in wage and hour cases. The team, headed by large-scale class actions and multi-plaintiff cases expert Laura Maechtlen in San Francisco, is able to draw on its national team to work on cases across the country, and is experienced in a variety of industries including healthcare, hospitality, energy, and retail. Camille Olson, valued by clients for her ‘incredible experience’ as a complex litigator, is based in Chicago and is a co-chair of the firm’s national complex litigation practice group. Also in Chicago is Noah Finkel, who has a particular specialism in representing clients in collective or class action matters, as well as advising and litigating on class action waivers in arbitration agreements. Sacramento-based Coby Turner is a key contact for compliance counseling. Gerald Maatman, Jr. left the firm in September 2022. Gary Friedman arrived from Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP in February 2024.Practice head(s):
Laura Maechtlen
Other key lawyers:
Ray Baldwin; Chrissie Constantino; Lynn Kappelman; Ariel Cudkowicz; Camille Olson; Robert Stevens; Ben Briggs; Annette Idalski; Linda Schoonmaker; Noah Finkel; Coby Turner; Gary Friedman
Testimonials
‘I worked with Ray Baldwin and Chrissie Constantino. Under Ray’s leadership, they were a very efficient and effective team in responding to a Fair Labor Standards Act class action complaint.’
‘Lynn Kappelman & Ariel Cudkowicz – great partners and collaborators who are super responsive and help me find the best solution to thorny problems. Emily Miller – super associate who takes great care and attention to detail to managing our matters.’
‘Camille Olson is the best attorney I have ever worked with. I appreciate her incredible experience, but I also value her wisdom and the common sense advice she provides when I ask.’
‘Bob Stevens – amazing relationship manager who learns our business and is able to provide thoughtful counsel that matches our business goals.’
‘I thoroughly trust Ben Briggs, my primary contact. Then when I have an issue in any part of the country, Ben often brings on someone with expertise in actually talking to the people on the other side of the matter that are just as trustworthy and capable. The team listens to my goals in each, individual matter and go after them from what I really think is a place developed from my point of view. All this while Ben maintains contact and continues to learn about and support my overall strategy for the types of matters we work on across the country.’
‘Team leader Annette Idalski is a very experienced and serious litigator and advocates hard for her clients. She is always professional, and knows the law.’
‘The tight attention to and capability around ensuring subject matter expertise and practical guidance, with both legal and project management capabilities designed to both advise, but also assist with practical solutions, whether investigations, audits, training, or litigation support.’
‘Linda Schoonmaker knows our business, is very efficient, and seeks practical resolutions of disputes.’
Key clients
Allstate Insurance Company
Hyatt
Delta Airlines
Nike, Inc.
Prudential Insurance Company of America
Tesla
UnitedHealth Group Incorporated
US Foods, Inc.
The Walgreen Company
Wells Fargo Bank
Work highlights
- Successfully defeated a motion for preliminary injunction brought by eight named plaintiffs on behalf of approximately 230 employees, challenging the denial of their exemptions from a health care system’s vaccine mandate.
- Successfully represented an international hotel company in a wage and hour lawsuit involving the issue of whether or not the client was required to immediately pay accrued vacation and paid time off wages to its employees when they were furloughed at the outset of the COVID 19 pandemic.
- Obtained a landmark ruling from the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court on behalf of a broker of door-to-door sales services that established the standard for joint employment in Massachusetts.
United States > Labor and employment > Labor-management relations
Seyfarth Shaw LLP offers a deep bench of experienced lawyers, handling a full-range of labor-management relations mandates. Praised as ‘top notch’, the team focuses on all matters relating to organized labor: complex labor arbitrations, negotiations pertaining to collective bargaining, unfair labor practice charges, representation before the National Labor Relations Board and union organizing campaigns. Glenn Smith chairs the practice group and is based in New York, with support from vice-chair and Seattle-based Molly Gabel. Washington DC’s Bryan O’Keefe focuses on traditional labor law matters, including NLRB unfair practice charges and administrative law judge trials. In Boston, ‘extraordinary’ lawyer Arthur Telegen advises major clients on complex collective bargaining agreements, alongside general labor-management relations issues. Chicago-based Karla Sanchez maintains her impressive practice in the space, predominantly engaging on unfair labor practice proceedings and representations before the NLRB. Former co-chair Kyllan Kershaw left in October 2022, whilst Bradford Livingston retired in July 2022.Practice head(s):
Glenn Smith; Molly Gabel
Other key lawyers:
Bryan O’Keefe; Arthur Telegen; Karla Sanchez; Brian Stolzenbach; Joe Damato; Stuart Newman; Jeff Berman
Testimonials
‘Seyfarth is a top-notch firm in this practice area and a great value in light of their reasonable billing rates.’
‘Jeff Berman is one of the country’s top experts in the field and can be counted on for thorough and practical advice.’
‘Arthur Telegen is extraordinary. He has deep expertise and is a very strong advocate and great strategist. Would look to him on the most complex and high-stakes matters.’
United States > M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m)
Praised for its ‘exceptional level of knowledge and experience in M&A transactions‘, Seyfarth Shaw LLP‘s corporate department is adept at assisting private and public companies, private equity firms, start-ups and family businesses in the entire spectrum of M&A. Technology, media and healthcare are core sectors of focus for the firm, which also attracts instructions from clients operating in the consumer goods, manufacturing, real estate and life sciences segments. Suzanne Saxman in Chicago provides ‘exceptional service‘ in the context of M&A, commercial transactions and general corporate matter. She coordinates the M&A group with New York-based Andrew Lucano, who is the trusted advisor to many buyers and sellers in the entire lifecycle of corporate and private equity transactions. Aaron Gillett, who works out of the Chicago office and primarily focuses on M&A and other business development opportunities, is widely recommended by clients.Practice head(s):
Suzanne Saxman; Andrew Lucano
Other key lawyers:
Paul Pryzant; Stanley Bloch; Aaron Gillett; Whitney Schmidt; Moshe Berliner
Testimonials
‘The team has an exceptional level of knowledge and experience in M&A transactions. They are responsive and provide practical advice. They have strong attention to detail and are indispensable.’
‘Our lead partner is Andrew Lucano. He is an exceptional attorney and person, second to none in his M&A knowledge and experience. He provides practical guidance in a timely manner and bills efficiently.’
‘Aaron Gillett is one of the best lawyers to partner with you can ask for. He made complicated matters simple, represented the company’s best interest, and was always available to work through issues. He went above and beyond, and would recommend working with him to anyone.’
‘Suzanne Saxman and Aly Reedy are a great team to work with! They were efficient with all agreements and focused on completing the deal over billing hours. Will recommend to any future colleague looking for counsel.’
‘Seyfarth is an experienced team. They have a straight forward writing approach which results in documents that are not overly lengthy yet get the job done. I have been particularly impressed with Aaron Gillett. Aaron did a great job in the negotiations in helping us maximize our price and memorializing the terms such that our escrow was protected.’
‘Seyfarth has been a pleasure to work with. I am impressed with how high-touch, flexible, strategic, and urgent they are with our needs. Despite the amount of work and complexity of the needs, they consistently go above-and-beyond while treating us as if we were their own business. We consider Seyfarth to be true advisors and partners.’
‘This firm’s partners and associates are obviously competent, but it is their combination of relevant experience, rapid turnaround and appropriate responses to specific issues that makes them unique. At Sayfarth, we always received the relevant expert assistance for our specific problems.’
‘Suzanne Saxman- Whether it was for an straightforward contract, employee matter or for a game changing M&A contract, we always received exceptional service.’
Key clients
Cars.com
Northern Wind, Inc.
Dawn US Holdings LLC
Dynata
Indegene Inc.
AssureHire, Inc.
Work highlights
- Acted for Northern Wind, Inc. and its owners in connection with a sale of the company for $60m to ACON Investments, a private equity firm based in Washington, DC which completed a roll-up of Northern Wind and other seafood businesses.
- Assisted Cars.com in the asset acquisition of Accu-Trade and its related businesses which provide vehicle appraisal and valuation data technology.
United States > Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: consumer products (including tobacco)
With lawyers spread across its national footprint of offices, Seyfarth Shaw LLP receives a regular pipeline of high-quality work for a range of consumer-facing clients both in relation to product liability matters, as well as consumer fraud-related class actions. A number of the lawyers have a core grounding in advertising law, including Boston-based partner Joseph Orzano whose client base includes food and cosmetic companies, who seek his advice from a risk management perspective on labeling as well as in litigation invoking the protection statutes of multiple jurisdictions. Chicago-based Kristine Argentine chair’s the national consumer class action group, with a considerable volume of her work emanating from alleged infractions of the TCPA. Washington DC-based Thomas Locke co-heads the product liability team alongside Orzano and has earned a reputation over the years for his skill in achieving favorable early settlements for clients.Practice head(s):
Kristine Argentine; Thomas Locke; Joseph Orzano
Other key lawyers:
William Prickett; Esther McDonald; Giovanna Ferrari; Aaron Belzer; Renee Appel
Testimonials
‘They display great professionalism and attention to detail.’
‘They are sensitive to costs and advise accordingly then leave the decision to the informed client. They do not disappoint.’
Key clients
JM Brands LLC
First Advantage Background Services Corp.
Pharmacare
Callaway Golf Company
American Armed Forces Mutual Aid Association
Personal Care Products Council
The Middleby Corporation
Work highlights
- Representing JM Brands LLC in a class action lawsuit alleging that the company engaged in false advertising through its use of the phrase “Natural Hair Care,” while its products contain some synthetic ingredients, including those used to preserve the product.
- Representing Personal Care Products Council, in 2,000 Federal Product Liability Lawsuits.
- Representing Pharmacare against a nationwide consumer class action alleging that Pharamacare’s Sambucol products violate the Federal Food, Drug & Cosmetics Act, as well as California, Missouri, and Massachusetts consumer statutes.
United States > Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital)
Institutional investors are key clients for Seyfarth Shaw LLP, with the firm acting for governmental pension plans, corporate and multi-employer plans, university endowments and family offices. The ‘deep, broad, and pragmatic‘ team is co-led by the ‘unflappable‘ Robert Bodansky in Washington DC and Atlanta-based tax and investment expert Steven Richman. In April 2022 the firm strengthened its client base of US retirement funds with the hire of Michael Jordan and Evan Sarosi to its Chicago office from Ice Miller, both praised by one client as ‘excellent at communicating with both the client and counterparty counsel‘. ‘Fast-paced and thorough‘ associate Trevor Tullius is a further name to note, supporting the partners from the Washington DC office.Practice head(s):
Robert Bodansky; Steven Richman; Patricia Poglinco; Robert Van Grover
Other key lawyers:
Michael Jordan; Evan Sarosi; Trevor Tullius; Gordon Peery
Testimonials
‘The team is deep, broad, and pragmatic, assisted by helpful technology.’
‘Robert Bodansky is an unflappable lawyer and leader of the investment management team.’
‘The firm is nimble and able to get up to speed very quickly. They treat clients with the level of interaction the client decides. They understand current and novel issues and do not bring in additional counsel unless necessary. For our work with them, that’s very important. The team that we work with is all white males, but they are very inclusive from discussions we have shared. Most of the other law firms we work with also have mostly or all male teams who work in our area. Something that really sets them apart from other firms is the respect colleagues have for each other. The junior lawyer, on the team we work with, frequently shares his opinion (even if differing) in meetings with senior partners. This dynamic is wonderful, efficient, and I find very refreshing.’
‘The two I’ve worked most with are Robert Bodansky and Trevor Tullius. Trevor is fast-paced and thorough. He is good at keeping discussions focused on pertinent points. He’s kind and deliberate and skilled at delivering bad news to opposing counsel. I respect the way he speaks up, even when a senior partner is present. And even if his opinion or ideas are different. Robert is a calm spoken, unshakeable force that works very effectively for the type of work we do. Opposing counsel may get furious during a discussion, but Robert doesn’t crack or show any emotion. He’s respectful, but consistent and steady. He’s great with client relations, but not in a fake way. He also impresses me with how he talks up other teammates. Finally, Robert allows, or even encourages junior colleagues to speak up in front of the client and that is great in my opinion.’
‘Seyfarth Shaw created a buy-side/limited partner-focused investment practice by hiring Michael Jordan and Evan Sarosi from Ice Miller. Seyfarth has empowered the team to continue its excellent practice. I consider them the best in the industry at what they do. Again, the team is small. They do not over-produce deliverables. As an example, most law firms are able to use associates for contract reviews by having them fill out a standard, gigantic excel template and ten deliver it to the client, along with many hours billed. Seyfarth has more senior attorneys spending far less time doing that, and delivering a more efficient review work product. If I could use them for every item we have, I would.’
‘Seyfarth attorneys Michael Jordan and Evan Sarosi both stand out. They are excellent at communicating with both the client and counterparty counsel. When reviewing documents, they are very detail-oriented but excel at identifying materials items and more efficient with timing. More than any other firm we have ever worked with they function as a seamless part of our team, they already know what want, how to adjust communication on our behalf, in what format we would prefer deliverables. It makes for a pleasant, fast, and high-quality legal process.’
United States > Tax > US taxes: non-contentious
In addition to its formidable reputation in real estate capital markets and M&A, Seyfarth Shaw LLP is noted for its involvement in the tax-exempt organization space, having advised domestic hospitals, universities, and other charitable entities. Chicago-based co-head and corporate department chair Steven Meier specializes in alternative investment programs, including Qualified Opportunity Funds and other similar exchanges, while fellow co-head John Napoli focuses on real estate fund formations, such as REITs and UPREITs. Rotem Bar-Kokhva's transactional acumen attracts a number of private equity funds and hedge funds. All named individuals are based in New York unless stated otherwise.Practice head(s):
Steve Meier; John Napoli
Other key lawyers:
Rotem Bar-Kokhva; Douglas Mancino; Ofer Lion
Testimonials
‘The team offers a mix of substantive knowledge and practical deal-making expertise. They are technical, but their approach is always practical, which makes them extremely pleasurable to work with.’
‘John Napoli is a senior member of the real estate tax bar and a very well-respected deal maker.’
‘Rotem Bar-Kokhva is a rising star within the real estate tax bar and is an extremely talented lawyer.’
Work highlights
Seyfarth Shaw LLP > Firm Profile
Seyfarth Shaw LLP is a full-service international law firm, serving Fortune 1000, Global 500 and other companies worldwide through more than 900 attorneys and dedicated professional staff (including certified project managers, legal technologists, practice managers and other paraprofessionals). Seyfarth has been widely recognized for its leadership in designing innovative, client-focused solutions for the delivery of high quality legal services.
- Earned “Law Firm of the Year” in Litigation – ERISA in the US News – Best Lawyers® 2022 edition of ‘Best Law Firms’. As well as, 15 Tier 1 national rankings in the areas of commercial litigation, construction law, employee benefits (ERISA) law, employment law – management, franchise law, health care law, immigration law, labor law – management, litigation – antitrust, litigation – construction, litigation – ERISA, litigation – intellectual property, litigation – labor and employment, patent law and real estate law.
- Recognized by The Financial Times among the world’s most innovative law firms for the eleventh consecutive year in its annual FT Innovative Lawyers series.
- Named a 2022 “Trailblazer” for Legal Technology by the National Law Journal. The firm was recognized for its new advanced immigration management platform, Caribou.
- BTI Consulting named Seyfarth ‘Most Recommended Law Firms’ in 2021. Seyfarth Shaw was named one of 21 law firms recommended by general counsel. These recommendations directly reflect the longstanding dedication to exceptional client service and innovative solutions, which continue to set the firm apart.
- Earned a perfect score of 100 in the annual Human Rights Campaign Foundation’s Corporate Equality Index and was named a ‘Best Place to Work for LGBTQ Equality’ for the 14th consecutive year.
- Achieved Gold Standard Certification from the Women In Law Empowerment Forum (WILEF) for 2021. Seyfarth was among only 29 US law firms to earn this distinction in 2021.
- Largest US labor and employment practice in a full-service firm, with over 400 attorneys exclusively engaged in labor and employment law in the United States.
- Recognized by Law360 as ‘Practice Group of the Year’ in employment law for ten years.
- Specialist international employment law practice with experience covering more than 160 countries, including matters on which we have advised on up to 150 countries at one time, acting for some of the world’s largest multinational companies.
- One of the largest real estate practices in the United States with more than 150 attorneys.
- One of the largest employee benefits and executive compensation practices in the US, serving clients across 30+ industries.
- 165+ business litigators across a global platform, offering a full-service litigation practice.
- Proactive litigation strategies in the rapidly changing legal services landscape.
- Handled more than 200 corporate M&A transactions across a diverse range of industries over the past two years.
Main areas of practice
- ADA title III and public access
- Antitrust and competition
- Appellate
- Bankruptcy and restructuring
- Capital markets
- Class and collective actions
- Commercial contracts and outsourcing transactions
- Commercial finance
- Commercial litigation
- Construction
- Construction and development projects
- Construction claims and disputes
- Consumer financial services litigation
- Corporate counseling and governance
- eDiscovery and information governance
- Employee benefits
- Employment
- Employment litigation
- ESG, corporate citizenship and human rights
- Executive and equity compensation
- Financial products and technology
- Financial services
- Franchise and distribution
- Government contracts
- Government contracts litigation
- Government relations and policy
- Health care, life sciences and pharmaceuticals
- Hospitality and leisure
- Immigration
- Infrastructure and project finance
- International dispute resolution
- Institutional investors
- Intellectual property counseling and prosecution
- Intellectual property litigation
- International employment law
- Labor management relations
- Manufacturing
- Mergers and acquisitions
- Post-pandemic recovery and renewal
- Privacy and cybersecurity
- Product liability and complex tort
- Real estate
- Real estate finance
- Real estate litigation
- REITs and real estate capital markets
- Remote workforce
- Retail, wholesale and distribution
- Securities and fiduciary duty litigation
- Tax
- Tax controversies and litigation
- Technology, mobility and connectivity
- Trade secrets and non-competes
- Transportation and logistics
- Trials
- Trusts and estates
- Trusts and estates litigation
- White-collar defense and investigations
- Workplace arbitration and ADR
- Workplace safety and environmental
International experience: Seyfarth Shaw’s international service model is custom-built to deliver an integrated, cross-border legal and commercial solution. Seyfarth’s model relies exclusively upon cohesive partner-led teams of highly experienced international attorneys who focus solely on helping multinational clients deal with their international business issues, regardless of location. Central to the firm’s international department is Seyfarth’s award-winning, specialist international employment practice, which is acknowledged as one of the world’s leading practices in the area. Our team also offers multidisciplinary corporate, commercial, and real estate advice to multinational clients with needs across the globe.
Lawyer Profiles
Photo | Name | Position | Profile |
---|---|---|---|
Mr David Baffa | Mr. Baffa is Chair of the Workplace Compliance Solutions Group at Seyfarth… | View Profile | |
Tracy Billows | Ms. Billows is a partner in the Chicago office of Seyfarth Shaw… | View Profile | |
Jay Carle | Partner and Deputy Chair, eDiscovery & Information Governance Practice Group | View Profile | |
Mr Scott Carlson | Mr. Carlson founded and Chairs Seyfarth Shaw’s eDiscovery and Information Governance practice… | View Profile | |
Mr Mark Casciari | Counsel, Seyfarth Shaw, LLP. | View Profile | |
Ms Joan Casciari | Joan Casciari is a partner in Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Chicago office. Her… | View Profile | |
Mr Brent Clark | Mr. Clark is a partner in the Firm’s Labor and Employment Department… | View Profile | |
Mr Benjamin Conley | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Christopher DeGroff | Chris DeGroff is the national Co-Chair of the firm’s Complex Discrimination Litigation… | View Profile | |
Ms Pamela Devata | Pamela Devata is a Labor and Employment Partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP… | View Profile | |
Kenneth Dolin | View Profile | ||
Ms Ada Dolph | With nearly 20 years of experience as a labor and employment litigator… | View Profile | |
Mr Jake Downing | Co-Chair, Defined Contribution Plans Practice Group | View Profile | |
Ms Diane Dygert | Partner and Chair of the Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation Department | View Profile | |
Noah Finkel | View Profile | ||
Mr Robert Flanagan | Mr. Flanagan is a partner in the Employee Benefits & Executive Compensation… | View Profile | |
Mr Matthew Gagnon | Matt’s practice focuses on defending employers against complex class and collective action… | View Profile | |
Aaron Gilltt | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Adam Greetis | Partner | View Profile | |
Ms Linda Haynes | Co-Chair, Institutional Investing Practice Group | View Profile | |
Mr Cory Hirsch | Co-Office Managing Partner of the Firm’s Chicago office | View Profile | |
Valerie Hoffman | Ms. Hoffman is a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP where she has… | View Profile | |
Ms Christina Janice | Christina Janice is a senior counsel of Seyfarth Shaw. Her practice focuses… | View Profile | |
Jonathan Karelitz | Partner | View Profile | |
Kyllan Kershaw | View Profile | ||
Ms Jennifer Kraft | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Ronald Kramer | View Profile | ||
Mr Richard Lapp | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Bradford Livingston | Brad Livingston is a partner in the Chicago office and long-serving former… | View Profile | |
Gerald Maatman, Jr. | Gerald (Jerry) L. Maatman, Jr. – is a partner with the firm’s… | View Profile | |
Mr Condon McGlothlen | Condon McGlothlen is a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP in Chicago. For… | View Profile | |
Ms Ellen McLaughlin | Ellen McLaughlin is a partner in Seyfarth Shaw LLP’s Chicago office. She… | View Profile | |
Mr Steven Meier | Partner, Chair of Corporate Department, Co-Chair of Tax Practice, and Co-Leader of… | View Profile | |
Mr Ian Morrison | Ian Morrison has extensive experience representing employers, employee benefit plans, and fiduciaries… | View Profile | |
Ms Camille Olson | Camille Olson is a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP and Chair of… | View Profile | |
Ms Karla Sanchez | Partner, Seyfarth Shaw, LLP. | View Profile | |
Suzanne Saxman | Partner | View Profile | |
Whitney Schmidt | Partner | View Profile | |
Sam Schwartz-Fenwick | Mr. Schwartz-Fenwick is a partner in the Labor and Employment Practice Group… | View Profile | |
Mr Andrew Scroggins | Andy Scroggins is a member of the firm’s Complex Discrimination Litigation and… | View Profile | |
Ms Amanda Sonneborn | Amanda Sonneborn is a partner in the Labor and Employment Department of… | View Profile | |
Mr Brian Stolzenbach | Partner | View Profile | |
Annette Tyman | Partner | View Profile | |
Michael Wexler | Partner | View Profile | |
Mr Shawn Wood | Mr. Wood is a partner in the Chicago office of Seyfarth Shaw,… | View Profile |
Staff Figures
Partners : 426 Other lawyers : 505 Professional staff : 1,280- United States > Labor and employment > Workplace and employment counseling
Top Tier Firm Rankings
- United States > Dispute resolution > E-discovery
- United States > Intellectual property > Trade secrets (litigation and non-contentious matters)
- United States > Labor and employment > Employee benefits, executive compensation and retirement plans: design
- United States > Labor and employment > ERISA litigation
Firm Rankings
- United States > Labor and employment > Labor and employment disputes (including collective actions)
- United States > Labor and employment > Labor-management relations
- United States > M&A/corporate and commercial > M&A: middle-market (sub-$500m)
- United States > Dispute resolution > Product liability, mass tort and class action - defense: consumer products (including tobacco)
- United States > Investment fund formation and management > Private equity funds (including venture capital)
- United States > Tax > US taxes: non-contentious