LAWYER PROFILE
Ronald S. Safer

Ronald S. Safer

USA 2026

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Ranked in 1 practice area

About

Provided by Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP

Practice Areas

Commercial Disputes & Litigation, White Collar Defense, Appellate Practice, Compliance Program Counseling, Design & Assessment, Education, Risk, Reputation & Crisis Managment

Career

Ronald Safer manages complex, high-stakes cases with a focus in civil litigation.

Ron has successfully represented companies and individuals in federal and state court involving matters such as commercial disputes, accounting fraud, tax fraud, anti-kickback violations, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), environmental violations, and securities fraud. He represents clients before the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA), Federal Trade Commission (FTC), and numerous state agencies.

When Ron takes a case, he pores over the facts and analyzes the complex concepts involved until he can shape them into clear, effective arguments. His impressive track record demonstrates his ability to command a courtroom while maintaining an unflinching commitment to his clients. Above all else, he genuinely cares about his work. “My clients’ problems become my problems,” he says.

His vast federal and state trial experience, paired with his unwavering work ethic and approachable demeanor, allows Ron to bring extraordinary value to his clients.

Ron is the Lead of the firm's Wrongful Convictions Practice Team.

Previous Experience

In 1989, Ron joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Chicago and rose to Chief of the Criminal Division, successfully prosecuting more than 100 defendants during his tenure. He prosecuted cases ranging from complex financial frauds and public corruption to sophisticated continuing criminal enterprises. He conducted dozens of jury trials and argued many significant cases to the Seventh Circuit Court of Appeals.

Professional Memberships

American College of Trial Lawyers (Fellow)

Personal

Georgetown University of Law Center (JD, magna cum laude, 1983), University of Pennsylvania (BA, 1979), Wharton School, History Faculty of Arts and Sciences (cum laude)

Chambers Review

Provided by Chambers

Chambers Guide to the USA

Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations - Illinois

Band 1
Band 1

Individual Editorial
Ronald Safer is known for his expert defense of clients in external investigations and white-collar proceedings such as securities fraud claims and allegations of FCPA violations.

Strengths

Provided by Chambers

  • Ronald has a great vision. He sees the entire playing field and knows which arguments to emphasize. He handles all aspects of a case, from the preparation of a complaint to the delivery of a closing argument.

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government InvestigationsChambers Guide to the USA
  • Ron is one of the most able white-collar lawyers in Illinois and the US. I would turn to him on any matter.

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government InvestigationsChambers Guide to the USA
  • Ron is one of the most prominent lawyers in Chicago and the country.

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government InvestigationsChambers Guide to the USA
  • Ron is a leading lawyer. He is a Swiss Army knife with his quality of advice and advocacy.

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government InvestigationsChambers Guide to the USA
  • Ron is a highly thought-of lawyer with deep experience.

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government InvestigationsChambers Guide to the USA

Ranked Individuals at Riley Safer Holmes & Cancila LLP (5)

Illinois

  • Profile image of Patricia Brown Holmes
    Patricia Brown Holmes

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations

    View profile
  • Profile image of Ronald S. Safer
    Ronald S. Safer

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations

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  • Profile image of Matthew C. Crowl
    Matthew C. Crowl

    Litigation: White-Collar Crime & Government Investigations

    View profile

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