Profile photo of Hon. Wayne R. Andersen (Ret.)

Hon. Wayne R. Andersen (Ret.)

Arbitrator Mediator Neutral Evaluator Special Master
Chicago, IL, United States
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About

Before entering private dispute resolution in 2010, this neutral served nearly two decades as a United States District Judge for the Northern District of Illinois. His judicial tenure involved presiding over thousands of cases, including high-profile multidistrict litigation and complex commercial matters. Prior to his federal appointment, he served as a Judge in the Circuit Court of Cook County and held roles as a supervising attorney and Deputy Secretary of State for Illinois. Since transitioning to private dispute resolution, he has successfully mediated and arbitrated hundreds of domestic and international matters across diverse legal sectors.

Practice Areas

Business & Commercial Civil Litigation Civil Rights Corporate & Finance Employment & Labor Energy & Environment Government & Administrative Healthcare & Life Sciences Insurance Intellectual Property Personal Injury & Torts

Professional Experience

Neutral
JAMS
Judge
2010
United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois
Judge
1991–2010
Circuit Court of Cook County
1984–1991
Deputy Secretary of State
Illinois
1981–1984
Supervising Attorney
Illinois Secretary of State's Office
1980–1981
Administrative Assistant to the Majority Leader
Illinois House of Representatives
1977–1980
Private Practice Attorney
1970–1980

Publications Leadership

  • Frequent speaker on federal civil procedure and alternative dispute resolution at various legal forums
  • Contributor to judicial education programs for the Federal Judicial Center
  • Author of numerous articles regarding effective mediation strategies in complex litigation
  • Guest lecturer at various law schools on the topic of judicial ethics and settlement practices

Positioning Takeaways

A seasoned former federal jurist with extensive experience in multidistrict litigation and complex commercial disputes, offering a sophisticated perspective for high-stakes mediation and arbitration.

License & Certifications

  • Illinois Bar Admission (1970)

Education

J.D.
University of Illinois College of Law
1970
B.A.
Harvard University
1967

Distinction

Appointed to the federal bench by President George H.W. Bush, he is noted for handling the 'In re: McDonald's French Fries Litigation' and other significant MDL cases.

Reputation

He is widely regarded by legal professionals for his patient demeanor, deep understanding of federal law, and an innate ability to facilitate settlements in emotionally charged or legally dense environments.

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