Sheldon Zabel Was An Environment Attorney

Sheldon A. Zabel, the immediate-past partner in charge of Schiff Hardin's Environmental Group, passed away Friday, October 17 at Northwestern Memorial Hospital of pneumonia at the age of 67. One of the most experienced environmental attorneys in the profession, he played a vital role when Schiff Hardin became one of the first major U.S. law firms in the late 1960's to establish a practice group devoted to environmental law.

Mr. Zabel concentrated his practice in environmental, natural resources and energy law. Mr. Zabel used to say that the greatest role of a lawyer is to protect the governed against the unwarranted power of government. His practice reflected his strong commitment to environmental goals and the rule of law. Mr. Zabel was a great mentor and friend to his law firm colleagues, clients, and even opposing counsel.

He had principal responsibility for environmental matters for Dynegy Midwest Generation, Inc., Northern Indiana Public Service Company, Midwest Generation EME, LLC, and Southern Illinois Power Cooperative. He participated in significant environmental matters on behalf of operating units of American Electric Power Company, BorgWarner Inc., Chrysler Corporation, Ford Motor Company, and for numerous other Schiff Hardin clients.