Heyl Royster

Karl Bayer

Partner
Chicago, IL

Joined Firm in 2020

Karl has dedicated his practice to litigation since 1996, trying more than 100 jury trials in Cook and surrounding collar counties.

  • Appointed Special Assistant to the Illinois Attorney General 
  • Contemnor in landmark Illinois Supreme Court decision 
Read Full Bio

Karl Bayer

Attorney in Chicago, IL

Karl Bayer joined the ranks of Heyl Royster's Chicago office in 2020, bringing with him an unwavering commitment to his clients. As a seasoned attorney who has dedicated his career to litigation, Karl's passion for advocacy shines through in every case he handles. In just three years, he was elevated to Partner in 2023, a testament to his exemplary work ethic and legal acumen.

With a remarkable track record of over 100 jury trials and extensive experience in arbitration and mediation, Karl is recognized for his strategic approach and tenacity in the courtroom. His background as a Special Assistant to the State of Illinois Attorney General equips him with unique insights that enhance his defense and commercial litigation work across Cook County and its surrounding areas.

Karl graduated with a degree in Political Science and Latin from Knox College, followed by the completion of his J.D. at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago. His academic foundation, combined with practical experience, makes him a formidable advocate for his clients.

Outside of work, Karl enjoys life in Elgin, Illinois, where he resides with his wife and two children.

Credentials

Education

J.D., The John Marshall Law School

B.A., Knox College, Political Science and Latin

Licensure(s) and Admission(s)

State Courts of Illinois

United States District Court for the Northern District of Illinois

Results

  • The contemnor in the landmark Illinois Supreme Court decision of Palm v. Holocker, Karl Bayer, contemnor, 2018 IL 123152, 131 N.E.3d 462 protecting the health information of defendants who have not placed their health information at issue in the litigation.

Presentations/Publications

Presentation

The Importance of Attacking Proximate Cause - Condition vs. Cause,” Heyl Royster's 34th Annual Claims Handling Seminar (2023)

Public Profile

Karl Bayer joined the ranks of Heyl Royster's Chicago office in 2020, bringing with him an unwavering commitment to his clients. As a seasoned attorney who has dedicated his career to litigation, Karl's passion for advocacy shines through in every case he handles. In just three years, he was elevated to Partner in 2023, a testament to his exemplary work ethic and legal acumen.

With a remarkable track record of over 100 jury trials and extensive experience in arbitration and mediation, Karl is recognized for his strategic approach and tenacity in the courtroom. His background as a Special Assistant to the State of Illinois Attorney General equips him with unique insights that enhance his defense and commercial litigation work across Cook County and its surrounding areas.

Karl graduated with a degree in Political Science and Latin from Knox College, followed by the completion of his J.D. at the John Marshall Law School in Chicago. His academic foundation, combined with practical experience, makes him a formidable advocate for his clients.

Outside of work, Karl enjoys life in Elgin, Illinois, where he resides with his wife and two children.

© 2026 Heyl Royster. All Rights Reserved.