Robert F. Merlo

Robert Merlo focuses his defense litigation practice on professional liability, primarily defending and advising attorneys in a wide range of matters such as claims for malpractice, statutory violations, and professional responsibility and ethics matters. He also specializes in the defense of real estate licensees in claims alleging negligence, as well as ancillary statutory claims. Robert has extensive experience defending these professionals in front of licensing and other oversight agencies in Illinois and in several other states. He regularly advises clients in non-litigation settings, drawing on his experience to guide his clients with regard to strategies and measures that can help avoid or mitigate potential claims. In addition to lawyers and real estate professionals, Robert regularly handles claims against accountants, directors and officers, insurance producers, architects, engineers and other professionals. Robert also represents insurers in coverage matters.

Robert has extensive experience handling these claims from inception to trial and – when necessary – through the appellate process, and has amassed several dispositive motion victories affirmed on appeal. Robert was one of 20 nominated finalists who successfully completed Wilson Elser’s rigorous Mock Trial Invitational through which our most successful trial lawyers impart their knowledge to those destined to join their ranks.

Robert’s wide-ranging litigation experience has proven valuable to a variety of clients, and he works closely with them to understand their goals, reassure them during times of crisis, and ensure they receive a comprehensive and cost-effective defense. From start to finish, Robert assesses and reassesses each case, exploring and pursuing creative strategies – both in court and out – to best protect his clients’ interests and to steer their matters toward favorable outcomes.

Robert has served on Wilson Elser’s Associate Focus Committee since 2022, and was the Chicago office Chair from 2023 through May 2024. In that leadership role, Robert used his skills as a strong communicator and advocate, assisting younger attorneys in their professional journeys and providing valuable insight, advice and assistance.

Prior to joining Wilson Elser, Robert worked as an attorney for a Chicago law firm focused on commercial litigation, specifically commercial collections and commercial real estate litigation. Robert also spent years conducting post-judgment proceedings and pursuing post-judgment remedies. He has brought his experience in these practice areas to Wilson Elser, assisting firm clients who become involved with matters including bankruptcy proceedings, adversary actions in bankruptcy, post-judgment collection actions, as well as claims for breach of contract and equitable relief.

While in law school, Robert volunteered at the John Marshall Pro Bono Clinic’s Foreclosure Help Desk; served as an extern for Appellate Justice John B. Simon of the Illinois Appellate Court, First District, First Division; and handled Municipal Citation matters while working for the City of Chicago’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection.