RAYMOND ATKINS is widely regarded as a leading authority in the field of transportation law, with over 25 years of experience advising some of the world’s largest transportation companies on their most complex and consequential legal challenges. His practice spans high-stakes transactions, regulatory litigation, appeals, competition issues, and matters involving federal preemption.
Ray serves as the co-leader of Sidley’s nationally acclaimed Transportation practice, which has earned a top-tier ranking from Chambers USA in Nationwide Transportation: Rail (for Railroads) every year since 2007. The group is consistently recognized for its knowledge and experience, with clients saying “Sidley Austin’s transportation team is second to none. It has a broad bench of experts, who are analytical and forward-thinking on a variety of matters in the rail space” (Chambers USA 2025). Sidley’s Transportation practice also received recognition by Legal 500 United States for Rail and Road—Litigation and Regulation (2025).
“Ray is forward-thinking and always looks for opportunities to provide added value. He is an expert in economic regulatory issues confronting the industry.”
Chambers USA 2025
A seasoned litigator and strategist, Ray represents clients in federal and state court litigations, private arbitrations, and administrative proceedings. He has briefed dozens of appeals and boasts a long track record of success before appellate courts. Drawing on his prior government experience, Ray also regularly advises clients in high-profile federal rulemakings and investigations.
Ray leverages his combination of a Ph.D. in economics and legal training to help craft innovative, data-driven solutions to the regulatory and commercial challenges facing modern transportation companies. His ability to blend legal insight with economic analysis sets him apart in a field that increasingly demands both.
Before joining Sidley in 2013, Ray served as General Counsel of the Surface Transportation Board (STB), the independent federal agency responsible for regulating interstate freight and passenger railroads, as well as select pipeline, motor, and water carriers. In that role, he represented the STB in over 50 appeals before the U.S. Courts of Appeals.
Recognitions and Honors
Ray’s exceptional legal work has earned him widespread recognition, including:
- Band 1 ranking from Chambers USA in Transportation: Rail (for Railroads)—Nationwide (2015–2025).
- Named a “Best Lawyer” by U.S. News and “Lawyer of the Year” in Transportation law by Best Lawyers in America (2019).
- Honored as a “Client Service All-Star” by BTI Consulting Group (2020), a distinction based solely on feedback from corporate counsel for his client service.