TAKAYUKI (TAK) ONO advises companies, boards, and senior executives in internal and government investigations, enforcement actions, and high-stakes cross-border litigation. His work includes government-facing matters before the U.S. Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and other state and federal authorities, as well as complex civil disputes in state and federal courts. Tak brings sound judgment and a steady hand when stakes are highest, providing clients with strategic counsel delivered with precision and calm to navigate critical matters. He also advises clients on the strategic use of artificial intelligence to enhance investigations and compliance processes while driving efficiency.
White Collar Defense & Compliance Counseling
Tak counsels clients facing allegations of fraud, corruption, and other corporate misconduct. He guides companies and their boards through government inquiries, special committee investigations, internal reviews, crisis management, and whistleblower issues, as well as the development and enhancement of compliance programs. He advises across a wide range of U.S. laws governing fraud and corruption, including the False Claims Act and the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Tak has led investigations in Japan, Indonesia, India, the Philippines, and the United States, and regularly manages matters involving multiple jurisdictions and parallel government proceedings.
High-Stakes Civil Litigation
Tak represents clients in complex civil disputes—often with significant cross-border elements—ranging from class actions alleging securities or consumer fraud to antitrust and product liability cases. He has extensive experience leading fast-paced matters involving expedited discovery and emergency motions. He brings a steady, decisive approach, strong judgment, and the ability to coordinate seamlessly across teams and time zones.
Japanese-Speaking Litigator
Tak is one of the very few Japanese-English bilingual lawyers in the U.S. focused on government enforcement, high-stakes litigation, and risk management counseling. His clients include Japanese companies and their U.S. affiliates, as well as global companies with operations in Japan. Tak frequently travels to Japan to counsel clients and works closely with Sidley’s Tokyo office to provide coordinated, cross-border representation.
Prior Experience
Earlier in his career, Tak practiced at a major global law firm, representing clients in government investigations and litigation involving allegations of anticompetitive conduct. Before becoming a lawyer, he was a professional journalist after graduating from Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism, one of the world’s premier journalism programs. Tak is also an FAA-certified commercial pilot.
*Not a registered foreign lawyer in Japan.