Sheldon T. Zenner

For corporations, executives, and individuals across Illinois facing the immense pressure of government investigations, regulatory scrutiny, or complex white collar criminal charges, the stakes could not be higher. In these challenging situations, having a legal advocate with unparalleled experience and strategic insight is not just beneficial—it's absolutely critical. Sheldon T. Zenner, a highly regarded partner at Katten in Chicago, stands as a preeminent figure in this specialized field. With a career spanning nearly 40 years, marked by significant roles as both a federal prosecutor and a defense attorney, Mr. Zenner brings a unique and invaluable perspective to high-stakes legal matters. He understands the intricate workings of government investigations from both sides of the aisle, allowing him to anticipate strategies and guide clients through the most formidable challenges. For those in Illinois whose businesses or livelihoods are on the line due to allegations of white collar crime, internal investigations, or complex civil disputes, Sheldon T. Zenner offers not just legal representation, but a profound sense of assurance and comfort. His dedication to navigating intricate legal terrain with a blend of zealous advocacy and a search for reasonableness has cemented his reputation as a trusted and effective counsel in the Illinois legal community.

Sheldon T. Zenner practices as a partner at Katten, with his office located at 525 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA. This address places him within one of Chicago’s most dynamic and accessible business districts, the West Loop, making it highly convenient for clients from across Illinois. The office is situated in a modern, well-connected building, reflecting the firm's prominence and professionalism. Accessibility to the firm is exceptional, regardless of your mode of transport. For those utilizing public transportation, the office is just a short walk from major commuter rail hubs like Union Station and Ogilvie Transportation Center, which serve a vast network of Metra lines connecting Chicago with its suburbs and beyond. Additionally, numerous CTA train lines (Blue, Brown, Purple, Orange, and Pink lines) and a wide array of bus routes have stops in the immediate vicinity, ensuring seamless access from various parts of the city. If driving, the firm’s location offers straightforward access from major expressways such as the Kennedy Expressway (I-90/94) and the Eisenhower Expressway (I-290). While downtown Chicago can be bustling, there are several public parking garages and lots conveniently located within a short distance of 525 W Monroe Street, offering practical solutions for visitors. The strategic placement of Sheldon T. Zenner’s office underscores Katten’s commitment to being readily available to serve their diverse clientele throughout the entire state of Illinois, especially those facing critical white collar and litigation challenges.

Sheldon T. Zenner, as a leading partner at Katten, specializes in high-stakes legal matters, with a primary focus on white collar defense and internal investigations. His extensive background as a former federal prosecutor provides him with a unique advantage in understanding and strategizing against government actions. His services are tailored for corporations, high-ranking executives, and company owners facing significant legal challenges. Key service offerings include:

• White Collar Criminal Defense: Representing individuals and entities accused of a wide range of federal and state white collar crimes, including alleged violations of antitrust, securities, tax, FCPA (Foreign Corrupt Practices Act), public corruption, and anti-fraud laws. He provides comprehensive defense from the initial investigation phase through trial and appeal, if necessary.

• Government and Internal Investigations: Guiding clients through complex investigations initiated by various government agencies (e.g., Department of Justice, SEC) or conducting thorough internal investigations when suspected wrongdoing arises within a corporation. This includes advising on privilege, witness interviews, and managing public scrutiny.

• Regulatory Proceedings: Representing clients before regulatory bodies in matters involving compliance, enforcement actions, and disputes that may overlap with criminal investigations.

• Securities Litigation: Handling litigation related to securities fraud, shareholder disputes, and other financial markets litigation and enforcement actions.

• Antitrust and Competition: Advising on antitrust issues and defending clients in antitrust litigation, including price-fixing allegations and other anti-competitive practices.

• Health Care Litigation, Reimbursement, and Regulation: Representing clients in the healthcare sector who face litigation or regulatory challenges related to fraud, compliance, and reimbursement.

• Civil Litigation: Leveraging his trial expertise honed in federal criminal courts to represent companies and individuals in high-end civil disputes, applying aggressive and effective advocacy to achieve favorable outcomes.

• Crisis Management and Reputation Control: Assisting clients in managing the public relations and reputational damage that can arise from high-profile investigations or criminal allegations, including interactions with the press.

Sheldon T. Zenner's professional profile is marked by an impressive array of features and highlights that underscore his exceptional standing in the legal community and his effectiveness as a defense attorney for clients in Illinois.

• Dual Perspective as Former Federal Prosecutor and Defense Attorney: A key highlight is his nearly 40 years of combined experience, including over seven years as an Assistant US Attorney in Chicago. This background provides him with "critical insights into, and the ability to anticipate, the government's strategic decision-making," a distinct advantage for his defense clients.

• Proven Trial Acumen: Mr. Zenner is not only skilled at negotiating but is also a highly experienced trial attorney. His ability to try cases effectively is noted, including convincing the government to abandon the first federal criminal computer-hacking prosecution after a damaging cross-examination of their expert. This demonstrates his readiness and capability to go to trial when necessary.

• Expertise in High-Stakes and Complex Matters: His practice focuses on "high-stakes matters" involving corporations, high-ranking executives, and company owners across diverse industries (financial services, healthcare, entertainment). He handles alleged violations of public corruption, antitrust, securities, tax, FCPA, and anti-fraud laws, often with international implications.

• Beyond Purely Legal Advice: His representation "goes beyond advising on purely legal issues; it encompasses practical business implications, operational issues, public scrutiny, reputational damage and other considerations relevant to corporate and individual clients with businesses or livelihoods on the line." This holistic approach is crucial for clients facing comprehensive challenges.

• Strategic Approach: Described as favoring "a search for common ground and reasonableness, whenever possible, over unproductive displays of aggression," his defense style is effective even in dramatic situations, such as managing a federal raid on a client company's headquarters, ultimately leading to no charges being filed and seized products being returned.

• Highly Recognized and Awarded: Sheldon T. Zenner is consistently recognized by prestigious legal directories such as Best Lawyers in America (Criminal Defense: White-Collar since 1997), Chambers USA (Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations since 2009), and Super Lawyers (Illinois since 2005). He has also received awards for pro bono and public interest service.

• Community Involvement and Leadership: He actively participates in prominent legal organizations like the American Bar Association and the Seventh Circuit Bar Association, and has held leadership roles within Katten (e.g., Chair of Litigation department), demonstrating his influence and dedication to the legal profession.

• Client Trust: He is described by Chambers USA as "a very experienced trial attorney who is trusted by clients," emphasizing the confidence and assurance he instills in those he represents.

As a leading partner in a prominent national law firm, Sheldon T. Zenner and Katten operate within the professional services sector, where "promotions" or "special offers" are not part of their client engagement model in the retail sense. The firm's value proposition is built on its deep expertise, strategic counsel, and proven track record in high-stakes legal matters. However, like other top-tier legal providers, they adhere to practices that ensure transparency and client accessibility:

• Confidential Consultation: While not always free for complex corporate or white-collar matters due to the specialized nature of the advice, the firm facilitates confidential initial consultations. This allows potential clients in Illinois to discuss their specific situation with Mr. Zenner or a member of his team, gain preliminary insights, and understand the potential scope and strategy of their legal defense. This consultation is a crucial first step for anyone facing significant government scrutiny or internal investigations.

• Transparent Fee Structures: During the consultation process, the firm would clearly articulate their fee arrangements. For white collar defense and corporate investigations, this typically involves hourly billing, with rates commensurate with the expertise and experience of the attorneys involved. Transparency ensures clients are fully informed about the financial aspects of engaging their services.

• Focus on Value and Results: Instead of offering discounts, Sheldon T. Zenner and Katten focus on delivering exceptional value through strategic counsel aimed at achieving the best possible outcome for their clients. Their goal is to mitigate risks, resolve complex issues efficiently, and protect their clients' reputations and livelihoods, which ultimately provides far greater value than any promotional pricing.

• Commitment to Pro Bono: While not a commercial offer, Katten has a strong commitment to pro bono legal service, demonstrating their dedication to access to justice and community contribution. This reflects the firm's broader ethical and social responsibilities.

For corporations, executives, and individuals in Illinois seeking the sophisticated legal counsel of Sheldon T. Zenner, Partner at Katten, the contact information is as follows:

• Address: 525 W Monroe St, Chicago, IL 60661, USA

• Phone: (312) 902-5476

• Mobile Phone: +1 312-902-5476

The most direct and recommended method for initial contact is by phone. Calling their office allows you to speak with Katten's professional intake team, who can facilitate an initial discussion of your legal needs and arrange for a confidential consultation with Mr. Zenner or another appropriate attorney. Given the sensitive and urgent nature of many white collar and investigation matters, prompt contact is often advisable. Their prestigious and easily accessible office location in downtown Chicago ensures convenience for clients traveling from all parts of Illinois, underscoring their presence as a premier legal resource within the state.

Sheldon T. Zenner is exceptionally well-suited for locals in Illinois, particularly for those individuals and entities grappling with the severe pressures of government investigations or white collar criminal allegations. His unique dual perspective as a former federal prosecutor in Chicago, combined with decades of experience as a defense attorney, offers an unparalleled advantage right here in our state. This local and federal insight means he understands the nuances of the Illinois legal system and the strategies employed by prosecuting bodies within our jurisdiction, providing a distinct home-field advantage for his clients. For Illinois corporations, executives, or individuals whose reputations, careers, or freedom are at stake due to complex legal challenges, Mr. Zenner's ability to "expertly navigate" high-stakes matters with a "search for common ground and reasonableness" while also being "equally skilled at trying cases" is precisely what is needed. The client review emphasizing "great assurance and comfort" from having him as counsel speaks volumes about the peace of mind he provides during incredibly stressful times. His firm's central Chicago location further enhances this suitability, making his highly specialized expertise readily accessible to clients throughout Illinois. For anyone in our state facing serious white collar legal issues, Sheldon T. Zenner offers not just a lawyer, but a deeply experienced and trusted strategic partner, right here in Illinois.