Best Law Firms in Chicago in 2022-2023
The list of the best law firms in Chicago includes names such as Greenberg Traurig, McGuireWoods, Morgan Lewis, and Sidley Austin LLP. They are also broken down by specialty. The revenue per attorney in 2019 is also included in the list. You can download the PDF or Excel file for more information. You can also download a PDF version of the Chicago law firm’s list.
Greenberg Traurig
A national practice gives Greenberg Traurig an advantage in complex litigation. It has the expertise to handle trials before the highest courts of many states. The firm’s attorneys have significant experience in class actions, IP, and real estate. The firm also handles cases concerning voting rights, federal constitutional law, civil rights, and energy. David Kurzweil and Shari L. Heyen are co-chairs of the firm’s practice in this area.
The firm has a long-standing New York talent pipeline. It recently added high-tech legal expertise to its Arizona office. In addition, the firm opened an office in Morristown, New Jersey. The firm cherry-picks local talent. For example, Phillip R. Sellinger, a former assistant U.S. attorney and chairman of the litigation department at Sills Cummis, joined the firm as a managing partner and brought with him major clients such as Hitachi Data Systems.
The real estate practice of Greenberg Traurig is highly regarded and is recognized as a leader in the industry. Its attorneys handle transactions involving all asset classes, including office buildings, condominiums, and shopping centers. Greenberg Traurig’s attorneys serve national and international developers, lenders, and REITs. A strong real estate practice is the cornerstone of Greenberg Traurig’s success.
In 2003, Greenberg Traurig expanded its reach into the Los Angeles market, luring away a 15-attorney unit from Larson King. In 2004, Greenberg Traurig opened two new offices in California. It also became involved in legal work in Silicon Valley. Alvarez considered the timing right for the firm to enter the market. He waited until the sector was picking up.
McGuireWoods
One of the top law firms in Chicago, McGuireWoods LLP is known for its expertise in corporate tax and MDL procedures. The firm’s team includes attorneys with experience in class actions, intellectual property, and joint ventures. In addition to addressing the needs of business and individual clients, the firm has substantial experience in advising on food safety matters. The firm is home to offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.
With a strong antitrust practice, McGuireWoods LLP represents corporations, trade associations, and individuals in government investigations. The firm also coordinates corporate communications and internal compliance policies. Its key lawyers for this practice area include Amy Manning and Brent Justus. Additionally, Adam Ackerman specializes in white-collar defense litigation, while Adam Glick handles complex commercial litigation.
Founded in 1834, McGuireWoods LLP’s Chicago office has a team of over 1,000 lawyers across 21 offices. The firm’s Chicago office is the largest in the city, while its Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA, North Carolina, have the most offices in the U.S. Their history traces its roots back to Egbert R. Watson’s Charlottesville, VA, law office opened in 1834. In 1870, he joined forces with George Perkins, forming Perkins, Battle & Minor.
A number of lawyers at McGuireWoods are recognized as industry leaders. Their focus on client-centric service, combined with their diverse experience, has earned the firm the loyalty of many long-term clients. Additionally, their in-house consulting arm, McGuireWoods Consulting, is ranked among the top 20 government relations firms in the country. As such, the firm has a unique advantage over other firms.
Sidley Austin LLP
A Sidley Austin lawyer can be considered “world class” in the Chicago area. His firm puts together multidisciplinary teams and presents a single face to clients. The size of the firm is one factor that makes him an asset for clients, and he also enjoys working with the firm’s staff, which is diverse and appreciative of each individual. He joined the firm after serving as the inspector general of the city of Chicago.
The firm’s attorneys are well-regarded by peers, with two partners appearing in the oil and gas section. Eugene Elrod heads the firm’s global energy regulatory group, and William Williams, a first-rate energy regulator, is also listed. Another three Sidley lawyers are in the regulatory communications section. David Carpenter and Stephen Spinks, both of whom previously were listed, are among the firm’s top lawyers. And two lawyers from Sidley Austin’s London office – Alan Charles Raul and David Carpenter – also make the list.
In the 1920s, the firm’s name was “Cutting, Moore & Sidley.” The firm’s practice was focused on securities law and litigation, and the firm became known as “Sidley Austin” in 1966 after merging with Brown & Wood. The firm was featured in Ralph Nader’s book, No Contest: A History of Corporate Lawyers, the firm expanded in the 1970s through mergers and other acquisitions. In 1944, the firm added a London office and a Los Angeles office, and in 1967 it changed its name to “Sidley Austin” to reflect the firm’s worldwide presence.
The firm has a global footprint and a long list of distinguished clients. Its work combines high-quality experience with a friendly Midwestern vibe. It is committed to creating a diverse workplace. Whether you need a business attorney or a corporate lawyer, Sidley Austin is one of the top Chicago law firms. All of its lawyers are highly experienced, skilled, and well-paid.
Morgan Lewis
As a leading law firm, Morgan Lewis excels at diversity and inclusion. Its commitment to diversity and inclusion cascades from the firm’s chair, Jami McKeon, down to its practice group leaders and office managing partners. Many of the firm’s partners are women, and its culture encourages and supports the development of women lawyers. In fact, women represent nearly 40% of the firm’s lawyers.
The firm’s attorneys advise clients on business transactions, litigation, regulatory strategy, and compliance, intellectual property, labor and employment law, and immigration. Several Morgan Lewis litigators are recognized as among the top lawyers in virtually every jurisdiction in the US and around the world. In addition to litigating in major, complex matters, Morgan Lewis lawyers also provide risk avoidance counseling and aggressive dispute resolution. They have also been ranked among the best firms in the United States for three consecutive years.
Its Chicago office is under construction. In a few weeks, Morgan Lewis will move into its new offices. A trophy-class office tower is under construction along the Chicago River. Morgan Lewis is one of the best law firms in Chicago, and it has signed a lease on eight6,000 square feet of space. The new offices will house a global law firm. Morgan Lewis is a top choice for corporate clients. Morgan Lewis is among the best law firms in Chicago for these reasons.
In addition to its world-class reputation, Morgan Lewis also offers diversity-related initiatives. Their Diversity Leadership Program involves two client-specific pro bono projects, shadow programs in client offices, and other social activities. The firm emphasizes diversity and inclusion, and its team is comprised of diverse lawyers from different backgrounds and ethnicities. It also has a strong appellate practice. This ensures that clients can count on a top-notch law firm.
Willkie
One of the best law firms in Chicago, the Willkie Law Firm is recognized for its diverse practice areas and innovative solutions. In addition to litigation, the firm has an excellent reputation in financial reporting and other areas. Its attorneys regularly handle audit committee investigations. The firm also has first-chair trial representation. Its legal team has more than forty lawyers. It is led by Craig C. Martin, a former U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission attorney who has extensive experience in litigation.
The firm has offices in thirteen cities around the globe and is ranked among the best in the country. Its lawyers are highly sought-after, attracting top talent and adding to the firm’s culture. The firm’s associates are highly satisfied with many aspects of the company. Many associates praise the firm’s compensation and the lack of billable-hour requirements. However, the Chicago office is still relatively small, and many attorneys work from home.
The Willkie Law Firm has also expanded its New York office. In September, it recruited former Jenner & Block chair Craig Martin to co-chair its finance practice. It also rehired Robert Stebbins, a former SEC general counsel, to head its corporate governance practice. Another key addition is Fahey Kruse, who has been with the firm for more than 25 years and holds multiple leadership positions.
The firm recently announced plans to expand its Chicago office. It began with six lawyers, but has since expanded to more than sixty. Construction is set to start in late 2022, with a move-in date of 2023. The plans include doubling the perimeter offices, more collaborative work space, and a state-of-the-art mock courtroom. While this expansion may not be as big as a New York City office, it will add to the firm’s Chicago presence.
Best Law Firms in Chicago in 2022-2023
The list of the best law firms in Chicago includes names such as Greenberg Traurig, McGuireWoods, Morgan Lewis, and Sidley Austin LLP. They are also broken down by specialty. The revenue per attorney in 2019 is also included in the list. You can download the PDF or Excel file for more information. You can also download a PDF version of the Chicago law firm’s list.
Greenberg Traurig
A national practice gives Greenberg Traurig an advantage in complex litigation. It has the expertise to handle trials before the highest courts of many states. The firm’s attorneys have significant experience in class actions, IP, and real estate. The firm also handles cases concerning voting rights, federal constitutional law, civil rights, and energy. David Kurzweil and Shari L. Heyen are co-chairs of the firm’s practice in this area.
The firm has a long-standing New York talent pipeline. It recently added high-tech legal expertise to its Arizona office. In addition, the firm opened an office in Morristown, New Jersey. The firm cherry-picks local talent. For example, Phillip R. Sellinger, a former assistant U.S. attorney and chairman of the litigation department at Sills Cummis, joined the firm as a managing partner and brought with him major clients such as Hitachi Data Systems.
The real estate practice of Greenberg Traurig is highly regarded and is recognized as a leader in the industry. Its attorneys handle transactions involving all asset classes, including office buildings, condominiums, and shopping centers. Greenberg Traurig’s attorneys serve national and international developers, lenders, and REITs. A strong real estate practice is the cornerstone of Greenberg Traurig’s success.
In 2003, Greenberg Traurig expanded its reach into the Los Angeles market, luring away a 15-attorney unit from Larson King. In 2004, Greenberg Traurig opened two new offices in California. It also became involved in legal work in Silicon Valley. Alvarez considered the timing right for the firm to enter the market. He waited until the sector was picking up.
McGuireWoods
One of the top law firms in Chicago, McGuireWoods LLP is known for its expertise in corporate tax and MDL procedures. The firm’s team includes attorneys with experience in class actions, intellectual property, and joint ventures. In addition to addressing the needs of business and individual clients, the firm has substantial experience in advising on food safety matters. The firm is home to offices in Chicago, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.
With a strong antitrust practice, McGuireWoods LLP represents corporations, trade associations, and individuals in government investigations. The firm also coordinates corporate communications and internal compliance policies. Its key lawyers for this practice area include Amy Manning and Brent Justus. Additionally, Adam Ackerman specializes in white-collar defense litigation, while Adam Glick handles complex commercial litigation.
Founded in 1834, McGuireWoods LLP’s Chicago office has a team of over 1,000 lawyers across 21 offices. The firm’s Chicago office is the largest in the city, while its Charlotte, NC, and Richmond, VA, North Carolina, have the most offices in the U.S. Their history traces its roots back to Egbert R. Watson’s Charlottesville, VA, law office opened in 1834. In 1870, he joined forces with George Perkins, forming Perkins, Battle & Minor.
A number of lawyers at McGuireWoods are recognized as industry leaders. Their focus on client-centric service, combined with their diverse experience, has earned the firm the loyalty of many long-term clients. Additionally, their in-house consulting arm, McGuireWoods Consulting, is ranked among the top 20 government relations firms in the country. As such, the firm has a unique advantage over other firms.
Sidley Austin LLP
A Sidley Austin lawyer can be considered “world class” in the Chicago area. His firm puts together multidisciplinary teams and presents a single face to clients. The size of the firm is one factor that makes him an asset for clients, and he also enjoys working with the firm’s staff, which is diverse and appreciative of each individual. He joined the firm after serving as the inspector general of the city of Chicago.
The firm’s attorneys are well-regarded by peers, with two partners appearing in the oil and gas section. Eugene Elrod heads the firm’s global energy regulatory group, and William Williams, a first-rate energy regulator, is also listed. Another three Sidley lawyers are in the regulatory communications section. David Carpenter and Stephen Spinks, both of whom previously were listed, are among the firm’s top lawyers. And two lawyers from Sidley Austin’s London office – Alan Charles Raul and David Carpenter – also make the list.
In the 1920s, the firm’s name was “Cutting, Moore & Sidley.” The firm’s practice was focused on securities law and litigation, and the firm became known as “Sidley Austin” in 1966 after merging with Brown & Wood. The firm was featured in Ralph Nader’s book, No Contest: A History of Corporate Lawyers, the firm expanded in the 1970s through mergers and other acquisitions. In 1944, the firm added a London office and a Los Angeles office, and in 1967 it changed its name to “Sidley Austin” to reflect the firm’s worldwide presence.
The firm has a global footprint and a long list of distinguished clients. Its work combines high-quality experience with a friendly Midwestern vibe. It is committed to creating a diverse workplace. Whether you need a business attorney or a corporate lawyer, Sidley Austin is one of the top Chicago law firms. All of its lawyers are highly experienced, skilled, and well-paid.
Morgan Lewis
As a leading law firm, Morgan Lewis excels at diversity and inclusion. Its commitment to diversity and inclusion cascades from the firm’s chair, Jami McKeon, down to its practice group leaders and office managing partners. Many of the firm’s partners are women, and its culture encourages and supports the development of women lawyers. In fact, women represent nearly 40% of the firm’s lawyers.
The firm’s attorneys advise clients on business transactions, litigation, regulatory strategy, and compliance, intellectual property, labor and employment law, and immigration. Several Morgan Lewis litigators are recognized as among the top lawyers in virtually every jurisdiction in the US and around the world. In addition to litigating in major, complex matters, Morgan Lewis lawyers also provide risk avoidance counseling and aggressive dispute resolution. They have also been ranked among the best firms in the United States for three consecutive years.
Its Chicago office is under construction. In a few weeks, Morgan Lewis will move into its new offices. A trophy-class office tower is under construction along the Chicago River. Morgan Lewis is one of the best law firms in Chicago, and it has signed a lease on eight6,000 square feet of space. The new offices will house a global law firm. Morgan Lewis is a top choice for corporate clients. Morgan Lewis is among the best law firms in Chicago for these reasons.
In addition to its world-class reputation, Morgan Lewis also offers diversity-related initiatives. Their Diversity Leadership Program involves two client-specific pro bono projects, shadow programs in client offices, and other social activities. The firm emphasizes diversity and inclusion, and its team is comprised of diverse lawyers from different backgrounds and ethnicities. It also has a strong appellate practice. This ensures that clients can count on a top-notch law firm.
Willkie
One of the best law firms in Chicago, the Willkie Law Firm is recognized for its diverse practice areas and innovative solutions. In addition to litigation, the firm has an excellent reputation in financial reporting and other areas. Its attorneys regularly handle audit committee investigations. The firm also has first-chair trial representation. Its legal team has more than forty lawyers. It is led by Craig C. Martin, a former U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission attorney who has extensive experience in litigation.
The firm has offices in thirteen cities around the globe and is ranked among the best in the country. Its lawyers are highly sought-after, attracting top talent and adding to the firm’s culture. The firm’s associates are highly satisfied with many aspects of the company. Many associates praise the firm’s compensation and the lack of billable-hour requirements. However, the Chicago office is still relatively small, and many attorneys work from home.
The Willkie Law Firm has also expanded its New York office. In September, it recruited former Jenner & Block chair Craig Martin to co-chair its finance practice. It also rehired Robert Stebbins, a former SEC general counsel, to head its corporate governance practice. Another key addition is Fahey Kruse, who has been with the firm for more than 25 years and holds multiple leadership positions.
The firm recently announced plans to expand its Chicago office. It began with six lawyers, but has since expanded to more than sixty. Construction is set to start in late 2022, with a move-in date of 2023. The plans include doubling the perimeter offices, more collaborative work space, and a state-of-the-art mock courtroom. While this expansion may not be as big as a New York City office, it will add to the firm’s Chicago presence.
