Barton O'Brien

Experienced attorney advising and representing clients in complex business and litigation matters in federal and state courts, as well as arbitration and administrative proceedings. Outside of litigation, my practice includes advice and counsel to individuals, businesses and trustees on a host of matters - always approached with the goal of developing practical, reasoned, and efficient strategies and solutions to resolve the issue, risk or problem at hand. Over the past 22 years, I have developed significant experience in such areas as business emergencies and crisis management, internal investigations, employment law and restrictive covenant matters, renewable energy transactions, insurance coverage and fraud investigations, trade secret violations, consumer fraud and deceptive practices issues, landlord-tenant disputes and civil rights matters often brought in a class-wide action. Serve as my firm’s General Counsel in Chicago. In this role, I assess the merits, develop strategy and defend actual or threatened malpractice claims, including internal investigations of any alleged breach of the governing ethical obligations under the Illinois Rules of Professional Conduct, or otherwise involving improper workplace conduct under the applicable employment laws, rules and internal policies. Strategically advise Trusts and small businesses, which own thousands of acres of farmland in Illinois. In addition to negotiating leases, listing agreements, purchase agreements, and renewable energy lease and easement agreements, as well as participation in day-to-day farming operations, I have developed substantial experience in complex Trust analysis, and a firm understanding of the often complicated accounting, tax, insurance and regulatory issues facing many businesses and family-owned companies. Currently preparing for the examination required to obtain a Certified Information Privacy Professional (“CIPP/US”) certification. Please follow the link to my Taft page. I am always available to those in need of prompt, practical advice and legal counsel. Feel free to contact me at any time.