Brian Gilbert approaches every transaction with a clear focus on the business objectives of his clients. He understands that while legal considerations are critical, they are only one part of the broader decision-making process. By helping clients understand the potential legal consequences of their choices, Brian ensures they can make informed decisions that align with their business goals. He recognizes that legal risks do not always drive business strategy, and he works closely with his clients to evaluate those risks and manage them effectively in their day-to-day operations. This pragmatic approach allows his clients to navigate complex legal landscapes while maintaining the flexibility to achieve their business priorities.
Representing privately held and family-run entrepreneurial businesses, as well as lenders and other sources of debt and equity capital, Brian has extensive experience in a variety of sophisticated corporate transactions, including:
- sizable acquisitions and divestitures
- mergers and reorganizations
- recapitalizations
- secured and unsecured lending transactions
- generational transfers and planning for family businesses
- formation of partnerships, joint ventures and other entities
In addition, his experience encompasses related issues in connection with the operation, dispute resolution and split-up of such entities, as well as intellectual property licensing and agreements regarding sales, distribution, manufacturing, leasing and other business operations.
Brian’s clients and experience span a variety of industries, including:
- industrial and high-tech manufacturing
- telecommunications
- digital marketing and strategy
- transportation
- automotive sales and distribution
- mines and minerals
- banking and financial services
- consulting and professional services
- software
- packaging
His practice also includes numerous cross-border transactions involving complex international legal and regulatory issues, foreign investments, and multi-jurisdictional compliance matters.
Moreover, Brian considers his proudest achievement to be his pivotal role in the growth, structuring, and development of Gould & Ratner. He has helped guide the firm to a point where it is stronger, more economically diverse, and more vibrant than ever before. Brian takes great pride in seeing the next generation of leaders stepping into key roles, poised to lead and grow the firm for many years to come.
Brian has been named an Illinois Leading Lawyer since 2011 in the areas of Closely & Privately Held Business, Corporate Finance, Mergers & Acquisitions and Securities & Venture Finance.
