Paul Russo

Paul Russo is a partner with Akerman. His expertise is in the retail sector, where he provides legal counsel to owners, landlords, tenants, and property managers on matters spanning the full real estate lifecycle. His representation in high-value, multi-jurisdictional transactions—including acquisitions, dispositions, financings, leasing, and development—exceeded $1 billion in value collectively.

Notable matters include representing Fulton St. Companies in securing a $233-million construction loan for a landmark 400,000-square-foot office building in the Fulton Market District. He also negotiated leases with Harrison Street Real Estate Capital, which committed to approximately 150,000 square feet of office space.

Russo is engaged with key industry organizations, including the ICSC and ULI. As an active participant in the annual ICSC Law Conference, Russo hosts roundtable discussions. His professional involvement also extends to the Chicago Bar Association.

As co-team leader of Akerman’s Chicago Community Impact Team, Russo spearheads fundraising and charitable initiatives focused on education and youth development. He also serves on the Akerman Associate Training Committee, where he helps train associates on legal skills and work-life balance. Russo is a mentor to associates in the Chicago office.

Russo has been recognized by GlobeSt/Real Estate Forum, The Legal 500 and The Best Lawyers in America.

These are some of the reasons why Paul Russo received Connect CRE’s 2025 Chicago & Midwest Lawyers in Real Estate Award. The award celebrates real estate attorneys who have distinguished themselves in their practice and the larger community.