Co-Managing Partner
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Sean Auton is Co-Managing Partner of the firm's Chicago office. Sean focuses his practice on general counsel, commercial leasing, and transaction matters, predominately serving high-growth companies, ranging from start-ups to more established entities. He is known for his counselor-style approach to delivering legal services, from representing transactional needs, such as contracts and agreements, to offering the big picture advice that helps clients accomplish their goals. Sean has considerable experience helping business leaders find and create the optimal structures to operate their businesses, whether it is for the purpose of encouraging growth and investment or for taking advantage of tax law opportunities. In his mergers and acquisitions practice, Sean works closely with private equity groups on all aspects of their operations including structuring funds, fundraising and investments, strategic acquisitions, the growth of portfolio companies, and strategic exits. Sean has strong experience advising the manufacturing and distribution industry on critical business needs such as OEM agreements, joint ventures, and partnerships. He also has a depth of experience with medical and dental practices, professional service companies, marketing agencies, and the technology industry, including developers, analytical firms, and IT support. Prior to joining the firm, Sean was a partner in the Business and Finance Group at HMB Legal Counsel, a well-established, corporate-focused law firm based in Chicago, Illinois. Sean was recognized as one of its “Notable M&A Dealmakers” in 2025 by Crain’s Chicago Business.
