Robert Berliner

Robert Berliner

Berliner Group LLC
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Robert W. Berliner, Jr.

Mediator | Arbitrator | Real Estate & Complex Business Disputes
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Overview

Robert W. Berliner, Jr. is a highly experienced mediator, arbitrator, and expert witness with decades of experience resolving complex business, real estate, construction, and estate disputes.

With a background as both a practicing attorney and corporate general counsel, he brings a practical, real-world perspective to dispute resolution—helping parties navigate legal, financial, and operational complexities.

His mediation work is distinguished by a strong track record of results, often in matters involving significant financial exposure and multi-party dynamics.
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Professional Background

Mr. Berliner has represented and advised a wide range of businesses, including:
• Real estate developers and investors
• Financial institutions
• Manufacturers and distribution companies
• Contractors and construction professionals
• Disputes between business owners, including family business disputes

He previously served as:
• Senior Officer & General Counsel, Jupiter Industries, Inc. (family-owned conglomerate exceeding $1B in revenue)
• Partner & General Counsel, Jupiter Realty Corporation, a national real estate development and investment company

He has also been a principal in many real estate and other business ventures. This dual legal and business background allows him to understand disputes from both a legal and operational perspective, particularly in complex, high-stakes matters.
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Mediation Approach

Mr. Berliner applies a structured, solution-oriented approach to mediation, emphasizing:
• Clear communication and issue identification
• Evaluation of legal, business, and relational interests
• Creative problem-solving beyond legal remedies
• Efficient, practical resolution strategies

His approach enables parties to reach mutually acceptable agreements that go beyond what courts or arbitrators can impose—often preserving business relationships and reducing long-term risk.
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Arbitration Experience

Mr. Berliner serves as an arbitrator for:
• American Arbitration Association (AAA)
• FINRA (Securities Industry)
• Cook County Mandatory Arbitration Program
• Private arbitrations

He has handled complex matters, including disputes exceeding $200 million, bringing analytical rigor, neutrality, and fairness to each proceeding.
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Expert Witness Work

Mr. Berliner is frequently retained as an expert witness in:
• Legal malpractice
• Real estate disputes
• Business and corporate matters

His ability to clearly present complex issues and withstand cross-examination has established him as a credible and trusted authority.
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Business & Commercial

  • Contract and partnership disputes
  • Shareholder and joint venture conflicts
  • Family business and fiduciary matters

Real Estate

  • Acquisition, disposition, and financing disputes
  • Land use, title, and contract issues
  • Landlord-tenant matters

Construction

  • Defects, delays, and project disputes
  • Professional services and contract issues

Estates & Trusts

  • Will and trust disputes
  • Beneficiary and creditor conflicts

Education

  • Harvard Law School, J.D., magna cum laude
  • Harvard College, A.B., magna cum laude

Professional Affiliations

  • National Academy of Distinguished Neutrals (Charter Member and Executive Committee Member, Illinois Chapter)
  • Association of Attorney-Mediators (Founding Member and past President, Illinois Chapter)
  • American Bar Association
  • Illinois State Bar Association
  • Chicago Bar Association

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