Robert A. Helman

- 71 S Wacker Dr #3635, Chicago, IL 60606

When seeking legal counsel in Illinois, especially for complex and high-stakes matters, the reputation and experience of an attorney are paramount. The city of Chicago has long been a hub for distinguished legal professionals, and few names carry the weight and respect of Robert A. Helman. While he has since retired from active practice, his legacy as a leading corporate attorney and a dedicated public servant continues to influence the legal landscape. This article is a factual and informative tribute to his career, providing insights into his professional background and the impact he has had on the Illinois legal community.

Robert A. Helman was a towering figure in Chicago's legal world, known for his distinguished career spanning nearly 65 years at the prestigious law firm of Mayer Brown. He served as the firm's chair for a decade and a half, leading it through a period of significant growth and change. His professional journey began as a utilities regulatory lawyer, but he quickly became one of the most highly regarded corporate lawyers in the United States. His practice included corporate governance work and major mergers and acquisitions for some of the largest publicly held companies in the country.

Beyond his corporate work, Robert A. Helman was deeply committed to community service and pro bono clients. He was a founding force behind the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago, an organization that provides free legal services to the poor. His belief that lawyers have an obligation to do more than just practice law and make money is a testament to his character and has earned him immense respect within the legal community and beyond. As a local user, it's inspiring to see a professional who dedicated his life to both excellence in his field and a genuine commitment to social good.

This article serves as a historical overview of Robert A. Helman's career and his association with Mayer Brown. It is important to note that he retired in January 2024 and passed away in October 2024. Therefore, this information is provided for educational and informational purposes, detailing the legacy of a remarkable individual who shaped the legal profession in Illinois. The following sections will provide a clear picture of his professional location, his areas of expertise, and the principles that defined his practice.

The professional life of Robert A. Helman was largely centered at Mayer Brown's Chicago office, located at 71 S Wacker Dr #3635, Chicago, IL 60606, USA. This is a prime and highly-regarded location in the city's West Loop neighborhood. The building is a modern, 48-story trophy building known for its elegant design and state-of-the-art facilities. The location is excellent for accessibility and professional convenience.

The building at 71 S Wacker Drive is equipped with several accessibility features that meet modern standards for professional offices. The building has a wheelchair accessible restroom, which is a key amenity that demonstrates a commitment to accommodating all visitors. The building's design also focuses on creating a feeling of openness and accessibility at the ground level, with a spacious lobby and foyers. This provides a welcoming and professional environment for all who visit.

The location is a major hub for public transportation, with easy access to numerous CTA 'L' train lines and bus routes. This makes it a practical and convenient destination for those commuting from various parts of Chicago and the suburbs. For those who drive, the area offers a variety of parking options. The combination of a prestigious, central location with a focus on accessibility and modern amenities speaks to the high level of professionalism associated with Robert A. Helman and the firm he helped build.

Robert A. Helman was an attorney who specialized in a number of highly complex and specialized areas of law. While the general term "Attorney" is provided, his work was specifically focused on corporate law and transactions.

His services and areas of expertise included:

• Corporate Law: He was recognized as one of the most highly regarded corporate lawyers in the United States, advising large, publicly held companies.
• Corporate Governance: Providing legal counsel on the rules and practices by which corporations are directed and controlled.
• Mergers and Acquisitions: Leading and advising on complex, transformational M&A transactions.
• Pro Bono Work: He was deeply involved in providing free legal services to indigent clients, demonstrating his commitment to social justice. He was instrumental in establishing Legal Aid Chicago.
• Utilities Regulatory Law: His career began in this area, giving him a foundational understanding of regulated industries.

His practice was defined by a commitment to excellence and a passion for mentoring young lawyers. The Mayer Brown/Robert A. Helman Professorship at Northwestern University School of Law was established in his honor, further cementing his legacy as an educator and a leader in the legal field.

Based on his public record and professional reputation, the features and highlights of Robert A. Helman's career are numerous and distinguished.

• Exceptional Career Longevity and Leadership: He practiced law for nearly 57 years and served as the chairman of Mayer Brown for a decade and a half, demonstrating remarkable dedication and leadership.
• Visionary in the Legal Field: He was credited with having the vision to attract top appellate and Supreme Court litigators, helping to build one of the first major practices of its kind.
• Commitment to Public Service: A founding member of the Legal Assistance Foundation of Metropolitan Chicago, he showed an unwavering commitment to providing free legal services to the poor.
• Renowned Mentor: He was known for mentoring and training many of the leading lawyers at Mayer Brown, leaving a lasting impact on the legal profession.
• Community Involvement: He was awarded the Justice John Paul Stevens Award for his extraordinary integrity and community service, an honor that underscores his contributions beyond the practice of law.

These highlights paint a picture of an attorney who was not only highly skilled in his professional domain but also deeply invested in using his talents for the greater good of his community.

The professional life of Robert A. Helman was tied to Mayer Brown, located at:

Address: 71 S Wacker Dr #3635, Chicago, IL 60606, USA

Phone: (312) 782-0600

Mobile Phone: +1 312-782-0600

These contact details are for the firm where he spent his distinguished career. For modern legal needs, a search for a corporate attorney at Mayer Brown or a similar firm would be the appropriate next step.

While Robert A. Helman is no longer in active practice, his career serves as a powerful testament to what makes a lawyer truly great. For a person in Illinois seeking legal counsel, his legacy offers valuable lessons in what to look for in a professional. First and foremost, his career highlights the importance of expertise and specialization. His status as a highly-regarded corporate lawyer shows that a deep, focused knowledge in a complex field is a significant advantage.

Second, his commitment to service is a core value to seek out. His work with the Legal Assistance Foundation demonstrates that he believed in using legal skills for the public good. A lawyer who is dedicated to both professional excellence and ethical responsibility is a truly reliable partner. Finally, his reputation as a mentor and a leader speaks to his integrity and character. A lawyer who is respected by their peers is a strong indicator of their quality. While you cannot hire Robert A. Helman today, his life's work provides a benchmark for what to look for in a legal professional. His story is a powerful reminder that the best lawyers are not only brilliant in their field but also committed to making a positive impact on the world around them.

Robert A. Helman

71 S Wacker Dr #3635, Chicago, IL 60606, USA