Shakman Michael L

For individuals and organizations in Chicago, IL, seeking legal counsel, Michael L. Shakman stands out as a lawyer with a profoundly impactful and distinguished career within the "Nearby Lawyers" category. Associated with Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP, Mr. Shakman is not only a seasoned litigator but also a figure known for his significant contributions to civil rights law in Chicago. This introduction provides an objective and detailed overview of his practice, the environment in which he operates, the services he offers, his notable features, and relevant promotional information, all based on publicly available data.

Michael L. Shakman practices at Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP, located at 180 N LaSalle St #3600, Chicago, IL 60601, USA. This address places the firm in a prime, central location within Chicago's bustling legal and financial district. The firm itself, Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP, is recognized for its sophisticated litigation practices. While smaller in size compared to some larger global firms, it is described as "small but mighty" with a bench of "master litigators," suggesting a highly specialized and effective legal environment.

The firm's history is notable, having been founded in 1946 by Supreme Court Justice Arthur Goldberg and Carl Devoe, indicating a legacy of legal excellence and high-caliber professionals. This background contributes to an environment where legal rigor, strategic thinking, and a commitment to justice are paramount. Clients of Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP can expect a dedicated team of experienced attorneys who are known for their efficiency, thoroughness, and ability to achieve business-oriented solutions, as evidenced by testimonials from in-house counsel and senior corporate counsel.

Michael L. Shakman's legal practice is notably diverse, with a strong emphasis on complex litigation. His work spans several critical areas, reflecting his deep experience and adaptability in various legal challenges:

• Civil Rights and Constitutional Law: Mr. Shakman is most famously known for his landmark civil rights litigation that led to the "Shakman Decrees." These federal court orders, issued in the 1970s and 1980s, barred the City of Chicago and Cook County from engaging in political patronage in hiring and firing decisions for most government jobs. This long-standing commitment to public integrity and fair employment practices is a core aspect of his legacy and ongoing work in civil rights.

• Professional Liability Defense: A significant portion of Mr. Shakman's practice involves defending law firms and individual lawyers against allegations of legal malpractice. These cases can involve complex commercial transactions, litigation disputes, and professional responsibility issues. He also represents lawyers in matters involving legal ethics, disciplinary proceedings, and lawyer mobility.

• Business Litigation: He serves as lead counsel in a wide array of business disputes, including corporate, contractual, commercial, and partnership disagreements. This encompasses representing purchasers and sellers of business entities in post-closing disputes and navigating complex financial and accounting issues.

• Antitrust and Trade Regulation Litigation: Mr. Shakman has defended parties in antitrust litigation, handling claims involving price fixing, territorial allocations, and other anti-competitive practices in direct and class action litigation.

• Construction Disputes and Arbitration: His expertise extends to the construction industry, representing clients in state and federal court litigation and arbitrations concerning power plant construction, ownership disputes, and environmental remediation work.

• Corporate Governance and Shareholder Litigation: He represents directors and special litigation committees of corporate boards in responding to shareholder litigation, and has handled disputes involving shareholder derivative claims and claims of breaches of fiduciary duty.

• Ethics and Professional Responsibility: Given his deep involvement in professional liability, Mr. Shakman is also a recognized authority on legal ethics, contributing to various publications and serving on committees related to professional conduct for the Chicago Bar Association and the American Law Institute.

His extensive experience in both trial and appellate courts, including the US Supreme Court, demonstrates his capability to handle legal matters at the highest levels of the judicial system.

Michael L. Shakman possesses several distinctive features that highlight his prominence and effectiveness as a lawyer:

• Landmark Civil Rights Advocate: His most significant feature is his pioneering work in the "Shakman Decrees," which fundamentally reformed public employment practices in Chicago and Cook County. This legacy underscores his commitment to constitutional principles and his ability to effect systemic change through litigation.

• Highly Respected in Professional Responsibility: He is a recognized authority and frequent author on legal ethics and professional responsibility. His leadership roles, such as Chair of the Professional Responsibility Committee of the Chicago Bar Association, signify his deep expertise and influence in shaping standards for legal practice.

• Seasoned Litigator: With a career spanning over five decades (admitted to the Illinois Bar in 1966), Mr. Shakman brings an unparalleled depth of litigation experience to his cases. His long record of selected engagements across diverse areas, from complex commercial disputes to civil rights cases, showcases his versatility and mastery of courtroom strategy.

• Academic and Intellectual Rigor: A graduate of the University of Chicago Law School (cum laude, Order of the Coif) where he served as Managing Editor and Articles Editor of the Law Review, Mr. Shakman's background reflects a strong intellectual foundation that underpins his analytical and legal writing skills. His continued engagement with legal academia and professional organizations like the American Law Institute further demonstrates his dedication to the advancement of legal scholarship.

• Client-Focused Solutions: While details are general, the testimonials for Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP emphasize the firm's efficiency, thoroughness, and ability to achieve "business-oriented solutions," indicating that Mr. Shakman, as a key partner, contributes to a client-focused approach that seeks practical and effective outcomes.

For a lawyer of Michael L. Shakman's stature, promotional information is less about traditional advertising and more about highlighting a distinguished legacy, peer recognition, and unparalleled expertise. Key promotional elements include:

• The "Shakman Decrees": This historical and ongoing litigation serves as a powerful testament to his impact on public life and his commitment to constitutional principles. The continued enforcement and discussion of these decrees inherently promote his role as a champion of civil rights.

• "Super Lawyers" Recognition: Mr. Shakman has been consistently selected to the "Super Lawyers" list for Business Litigation and Professional Liability for many years (2006-2025), a highly regarded peer-influenced and research-driven designation that recognizes the top 5% of practicing attorneys. This recognition speaks volumes about his standing among his peers.

• Publications and Speaking Engagements: His extensive list of publications in prominent legal journals and his participation in legal seminars and symposia demonstrate his thought leadership and expertise in complex areas like legal malpractice and ethics. These contributions reinforce his authority and influence in the legal community.

• Affiliations and Memberships: His involvement with prestigious organizations like the American Law Institute, American Bar Association, and Chicago Bar Association, including leadership roles, underscores his reputation and active participation in shaping legal discourse and standards.

• Firm Reputation: The strong reputation of Miller Shakman Levine & Feldman LLP, characterized by client testimonials praising its efficiency, thoroughness, and ability to handle complex litigation, directly reflects on Mr. Shakman's standing as a leading partner within the firm. The firm's "Windy City Heavyweights" description on Vault further emphasizes the caliber of its attorneys.

For local users in Chicago seeking a "Nearby Lawyer" with a profound understanding of constitutional law, a proven track record in complex business litigation, and expertise in professional responsibility, Michael L. Shakman represents a formidable and highly respected choice.