Sean Koller represents clients in a variety of industries in complex business disputes. Whether handling a pre-litigation negotiation, representing a client in a mediation, federal or state court litigation, arbitration, a government investigation or inquiry, or working out a settlement, Sean brings the experience needed to resolve matters efficiently and effectively.
Sean has handled complex commercial suits, antitrust and healthcare disputes, derivative suits, tort disputes, and contractual claims, among other matters. He has represented clients in cases before the American Arbitration Association (AAA), JAMS, the American Health Law Association, and other alternative dispute resolution tribunals.
Additionally, Sean has successfully defended individuals and corporations against government investigations conducted by the Department of Justice, Securities and Exchange Commission, Public Company Accounting Oversight Board, State Attorneys General, and other state and federal government agencies. Both public corporations and nonprofit organizations also turn to Sean to help guide them through internal investigations to identify and resolve problems.
Sean listens closely to his clients, making certain that he understands their business and industry, and the specific problems they face. Armed with that knowledge, he crafts solutions that work best for them. In litigation, Sean applies his knowledge of the courts and their procedures and considers the opposing counsels’ arguments and strategy. Then he devises a plan of action to position his clients for success. Regarded as diligent, intelligent, and analytical, he stays ahead of the curve, keeping current on new laws and regulations, especially in Illinois, and how they may impact his clients.
In addition to his active practice, Sean engages in pro bono efforts; these include representing nonprofit organizations in internal investigations, prisoners in post-conviction hearings and suits, and individuals in Public Trust Doctrine suits.
Before joining the firm, Sean was an associate at McDermott Will & Emery LLP, an Am Law 25 law firm. He brings that “big law” experience to bear when representing Sperling Kenny Nachwalter clients.
Honors & Awards
Best Lawyers in America® - “Ones to Watch” – Criminal Defense/White Collar, 2024-2025
Representative Matters
Represented Vistria, a private equity client, in a trial before the Delaware Court of Chancery against a portfolio company’s competitor in a case alleging unfair competition claims.
Obtained complete acquittal after an eight-day criminal jury trial in the first-ever no-poach trial in the over 130-year history of the Sherman Act on behalf of Kent Thiry, former CEO of DaVita, Inc.
Successfully defended a major headset manufacturer (Plantronics, Inc., now PolyCom) at trial in a multi-hundred-million-dollar case alleging federal antitrust violations.
Represented, on a pro bono basis, an individual on a post-conviction petition claiming actual innocence of the defendant based on new evidence. The representation included drafting an amended petition for post-conviction relief, motion practice, and arguing the motion before the court.
Represented the officers and directors of Pacific Gas & Electric Co. in derivative and class action litigation arising from large-scale wildfires.)
Newsroom
Publications
Contributing Author, Federal Civil Practice, Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education, 2020 and 2024 Editions
Contributing Editor, The Developing Labor Law, ABA Section of Labor and Employment Law, 2018 Edition
Speaking Engagements
“The Securities Act and Other SEC Regulations: Reporting and Enforcement,” Chicago Bar Association, March 25, 2021
Professional Activities
Professional Memberships
Chicago Bar Association
Illinois State Bar Association
Practice Areas
Education
J.D., University of Chicago Law School, 2016
- Comment Editor, The University of Chicago Legal Forum
B.A., University of Notre Dame, magna cum laude, 2013
- National History Honors Society
- National Political Science Honors Society
Bar Admissions
- Illinois
- United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois