Portrait of Steven Thayer

Steven Thayer

Partner

Dedicated to helping clients achieve their goals, Steve Thayer brings to bear more than 25 years of legal experience representing individuals and businesses in a vast array of business and legal matters. A proven leader, Steve has consistently been recognized nationally as a trailblazer in the space where corporate transactions, wealth and estate planning meet.

Throughout his career, Steve has been heavily involved in the formation, financing, and operation of business enterprises in a variety of industries, both domestically and internationally.  His industry experience includes technology ventures, securities offerings,  real estate transactions, manufacturing businesses, retail establishments, franchised businesses concepts, resort development, brokerage businesses, professional sports team acquisition, and other start-up and emerging businesses. He has also worked with large family offices regarding their international holdings, including international companies, and the complex tax issues that go with those structures.

    Education

    • University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (B.A., 1988)
      • Economics
    • DePaul Driehaus College of Business (M.B.A, 1991)
    • DePaul University College of Law (J.D., 1991)

    Professional Affiliations

    • American Bar Association
    • Chicago Bar Association
    • Illinois Bar Association

    Awards & Recognition

    • The Best Lawyers in America®, Real Estate Law, 2027
    • Leading Lawyer, Arts, Entertainment & Sports Law, Closely & Privately Held Business, Real Estate Law: Commercial, Securities & Venture Finance and Trust, Will & Estate, 2023
    • Leading Lawyers (IL), 2010-2026
    • 2018 Chicago Illinois of the Year, Awarded by the University of Illinois Alumni Association and Chicago Illini Club
    • Significant Sig Award, Sigma Chi Fraternity
    • Order of Constantine (Outstanding Service Award), Sigma Chi Fraternity
    • Nominated for Best Private Client Lawyer in North America, Family Office Review
    • Real Estate Lawyer of the Year, Acquisition Finance Magazine, 2015
    • Illinois Super Lawyers magazine, 2007

    Community Involvement

    • Leadership Council, Institute of Genomic Biology University of Illinois
    • Kappa Kappa of Sigma Chi Foundation, Trustee
    • Entrepreneurs Organization, 2001-2014
    • Hinsdale Public Library Foundation, 2010-2014
    • Hinsdale Zoning Board of Appeals, 2001-2006
    • Chicago Illini Club, Past President

Firm Highlights