Sarah Ames

Sarah Ames is a partner in Chicago who advises multinational companies, especially German-speaking businesses and their U.S. subsidiaries, on corporate and commercial matters. She focuses on practical, efficient solutions and works to avoid litigation whenever possible. She builds trusted relationships that support long-term client success.

Sarah earned a J.D. from the University of Alabama School of Law in 1997 and an M.A. in German Literature from the University of Alabama in 1994. She also completed an Intermediate Examination at the University of Hamburg School of Law in 1992, focusing on European Community Law.

Sarah serves as outside general counsel to many clients. She advises on corporate formation, restructuring, mergers, and governance. She prepares and reviews agreements, including terms and conditions for sale, lease, and distribution, helping companies manage risk and operate smoothly.

Sarah counsels employers on employment matters, including agreements, handbooks, discipline, and terminations. She also guides companies on transferring and hiring foreign nationals, filing business visa applications, and addressing broader immigration and mobility concerns tied to international growth and workforce planning.

A native German speaker, Sarah works closely with manufacturing, construction, technology, food and beverage, and consulting companies. She is part of a firmwide team of German-speaking attorneys across Business Law, Labor & Employment, Immigration, and Litigation & Dispute Resolution, offering coordinated cross-border support.

Sarah Ames is active in professional and civic organizations, including chambers of commerce and immigration associations. She serves in leadership roles with several nonprofit groups and is admitted to practice in Alabama and Illinois. Her language skills and global insight strengthen her client relationships.

Law Office Affiliations

• Partner, Quarles & Brady LLP
• Member, American Immigration Lawyers Association
• Member, Alabama State Bar Association
• Member, American Bar Association
• Chair, Heidelberg Club International

Licensed State

• Alabama
• Illinois

Education

• University of Alabama School of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• University of Alabama
  Master of Arts (MA)

Awards & Badges