Taft, one of the fastest-growing law firms in the country, announced today that partner Theodore W. Wern has joined the firm’s growing Chicago office. Wern joins from Perkins Coie and focuses his practice on the representation of private equity funds, portfolio companies, and family-owned enterprises.

Wern is among the more than 30 lateral attorneys who have joined Taft’s Chicago office so far in 2025, where the firm’s attorney headcount has crossed 180.

“The Chicago office is in growth mode and I’m excited to be part of Taft’s vibrant national platform,” said Wern. “Taft has built a name for itself in private equity, and is well positioned to be the go-to firm for all aspects of middle market M&A and day-to-day portfolio company support. It is a great fit for my practice and I’m thrilled to be part of the team.”

A trusted advisor to his clients, Wern represents public and private companies, private equity funds, family offices, and other investor groups. He emphasizes efficiency, transparency, and creative problem-solving in complex transactions. Over a 25-year career, his practice has included mergers and acquisitions, recapitalizations, distressed investments, growth equity financings, venture capital transactions, joint ventures, and fund formation. Additionally, Wern provides general corporate counsel to portfolio companies and family-owned enterprises.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Ted to the firm,” said Cezar “Cid” M. Froelich, Taft Chicago Partner and Chairman. “His track record representing leading public and private companies, investors, and funds perfectly complements our client-focused approach.”

“Ted brings a remarkable depth of experience guiding sophisticated clients through complex transactions,” said Paul Jenson, Partner-in-Charge of Taft’s Chicago office. “He’ll be an immediate asset to our clients operating throughout the private equity landscape, and we’re excited to welcome him to Taft as we continue to grow in Chicago and beyond.”

Taft is among the fastest-growing law firms in the country today with a reputation for building a truly unique national platform that is home to more than 1,100 lawyers and growing. On Dec. 31, 2025, Taft will complete its merger with Morris, Manning & Martin, a highly regarded firm with offices in Atlanta and Washington, D.C., which will bring approximately 100 more lawyers to the Taft platform. Following this merger, Taft will have more than 1,200 lawyers in 25 offices across the country with projected combined revenues in excess of $1 billion.

About Taft

Founded in 1885 with a 140-year legacy rooted in the historic Taft family, today Taft is one of the nation’s fastest-growing law firms. As a modern law firm with a non-headquarter operating model and more than 1,100 attorneys, Taft is fully committed to delivering the highest level of service to today’s organizations and individuals. The legal performance of Taft attorneys is recognized nationally, with inclusion in the Am Law 100, Chambers USA, Best Lawyers®, Super Lawyers, and more. Learn more at Taftlaw.com.