Monday, May 5 and Tuesday, May 6, 2025
iHotel and Conference Center, Champaign and Live Webcast
Monday, May 19 and Tuesday, May 20, 2025
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Overnight rooms available at Hilton Garden Inn Central Loop, 245 S. Franklin St., Chicago, IL 60606
Reserve your room here. Special IICLE rate until April 27th.
DAY ONE
Moderated By:
Plenaries and Track A Chicago - Elizabeth A. Garlovsky, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Chicago Track B - Melissa Johnson, Generation Law, Ltd, Elmhurst
8:00 Registration or Log in to the webcast via your account at www.iicle.com
8:55 Opening Announcements
9:00 – 11:00 Panel of Current Developments: New Laws, New Regulations and How They Are Practically Applied
Panel Moderator: Elizabeth A. Garlovsky, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Adam Garber, Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC, Chicago
Steven L. Kriz, Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC, Chicago
11:00 - 11:20 BREAK
11:20 – 12:35 FEATURED PRESENTATION: Help Me Get My Feet Back On The Ground: Understanding and Calculating the Illinois Estate Tax
This session will provide attorneys with practical strategies for understanding the Illinois estate tax. Learn how recent developments impact estate planning in Illinois and explore techniques to help clients minimize tax liability while preserving wealth. The discussion will include calculation of the tax, considerations for residents and non-residents with Illinois property, and a brief discussion of the “Nowhere Man”: the Illinois generation-skipping transfer tax.
Allison K. Pfeifle, ArentFox Schiff LLP, Chicago
12:35 – 1:30 LUNCH BREAK
Breakout Session 1: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Track A
Grantor Trusts in General
Grantor trusts can play a pivotal role in your estate planning strategy. This session will cover the legal framework, tax implications, and strategic uses of grantor trusts, equipping attorneys with the knowledge to advise clients on wealth management and asset transfer while preserving control.
Stuart J. Kohn, Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC, Chicago
Stephen I. Pratt, Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC, Chicago
Track B
Case Law and Legislative Update: Trust and Estate Fiduciaries
This session covers key rulings on testamentary capacity, fiduciary duties, and standing, along with updates to the Probate Act, Trust Code, and Power of Attorney Act
Mackenzie A. Hyde, Clark Hill PLC, Chicago
Ray J. Koenig III, Clark Hill PLC, Chicago
Break 2:30 PM – 2:45 PM
Breakout Session 2: 2:45 PM – 3:45 PM
Track A
Leveraging Trusts as Collateral for Loans in Estate Planning
Explore strategies for using trusts as collateral to secure loans within the framework of estate planning. This guide covers lending from trusts to other trusts, or to beneficiaries or entities; how a trust can be used as collateral for a beneficiary's loan, and the role of trust distributions and the trust purpose. Learn how to draft trusts for use in lending transactions and to advise beneficiaries and trustees on the structure of loans.
Valli Gupta, BMO Financial Group, Chicago
Rebecca Wallenfelsz, Chapman and Cutler LLP, Chicago
Track B
Planning for the Effective Administration of Charitable Estates and Trusts
This presentation will address charitable estate planning techniques and strategies with an emphasis on the effective implementation of those techniques and strategies, post-death. It will cover legal and practical considerations for ensuring that charitable intentions are honored while complying with relevant laws and regulations. Key topics include structuring charitable gifts and bequests, tax implications, fiduciary responsibilities, and potential challenges associated with the post-death administration of charitable estates and trusts. The session aims to equip participants with the knowledge to plan for and administer charitable estates and trusts in a manner designed to ensure that the client's wishes are properly carried out and that the interests of the charitable and non-charitable beneficiaries are effectively protected
Fredrick B. Weber, ArentFox Schiff LLP, Chicago
Transition 3:45 PM – 3:55 PM
Breakout Session 3: 3:55 PM – 4:55 PM
Track A
(1 professional responsibility)
Artificial Intelligence and its Impact on Trusts and Estates Practice
Artificial Intelligence is here to stay. While AI may not replace humans just yet, those who know how to use AI effectively and efficiently could one day be replaced with those who do not. This presentation will explore the use of AI in estate planning and the practice of law, including the ethical considerations every attorney must know before entering into this new frontier.
Elizabeth A. Garlovsky, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Sari Montgomery, Robinson Stewart Montgomery & Doppke, LLC, Chicago
Track B
Primer on Discovery Issues for Estate Planners
(1 professional responsibility)
Learn how to navigate discovery in trust and estate matters while upholding ethical duties, protecting client confidentiality, and managing privilege—especially when clients are deceased or incapacitated.
Patrick Bushell, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Samantha Weissbluth, Harrison LLP, Chicago
4:55 Adjourn Day 1
DAY TWO
Track A Moderator:
Champaign: Chad J. Richter, Mathis, Marifian & Richter, LTD., Edwardsville
Chicago - Stephanie M. Berardi, Chuhak & Tecson, P.C.,Chicago
Track B Moderator:
Champaign - L. Kaye DeSelms Dent, Dent Coulson Elder Law, LLC, Effingham
Chicago - David E. Braden, Yudell and Lonoff, LLC, Northfield
Breakout Session 4: 8:45 AM – 9:45 AM
Track A
IRA Basics
Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) are foundational tools for retirement planning, but their rules can be complex. This session provides a comprehensive overview of IRA fundamentals, including contribution limits, tax advantages, required minimum distributions (RMDs), and beneficiary designations. Learn the differences between Traditional and Roth IRAs, strategies for rollovers, and how to avoid common tax pitfalls.
Champaign: Payton M. Heyen Pech, Sandberg Phoenix, St. Louis
Chicago: Lorraine K. Cavataio, Sandberg Phoenix, O’Fallon
Track B
Post-Mortem Planning: Navigating Unimplemented Estate Plans After Death
Even the most meticulously crafted estate plan is ineffective if left unimplemented by the client prior to their passing. This session provides a practical guide for attorneys on managing unexecuted estate plans post-mortem. Explore the legal and procedural steps to address gaps, mitigate potential conflicts, and honor the client's intent. Topics include probate strategies, tax considerations, and working with heirs to achieve equitable outcomes. Learn how to turn challenges into opportunities for resolution and ensure a smooth estate administration process.
Beth K. Flowers, Mathis, Marifian & Richter, LTD., Edwardsville
Transition 9:45 AM – 9:55 AM
Breakout Session 5: 9:55 AM – 10:55 AM
Track A
Introduction to Illinois Trust Code
This session offers attorneys an overview of the Illinois Trust Code (ITC), highlighting its core provisions and practical implications for trust administration and estate planning. Gain insights into trustee duties, beneficiary rights, and recent changes that impact both new and existing trusts.
Sarah Barnes, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Victoria L. Cejka, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Track B
Estate Planning for Retirement Heavy Estates
Retirement accounts often form a significant portion of an estate, requiring specialized planning to maximize tax efficiency and ensure smooth transitions. This session covers strategies for managing estates heavily weighted with retirement assets, including planning during the client’s lifetime and post-death administration. Explore key topics such as required minimum distributions (RMDs), beneficiary designations, the SECURE Act's impact, and tax-efficient payout strategies.
Robert K. Kirkland, Sandberg Phoenix, Kansas City
Lily Puent, Sandberg Phoenix, St. Louis
Networking Break 10:55 AM – 11:15 AM
Breakout Session 6: 11:15 AM – 12:15 PM
Track A
Introduction to Illinois Estate Tax
This introductory guide explains the fundamentals of the Illinois Estate Tax, including who is subject to the tax, exemption thresholds, and filing requirements.
Champaign: Hugh F. Drake, Brown, Hay + Stephens, Springfield
Chicago: Adam M. Ansari, Clark Hill PLC, Chicago
Track B
Basis Planning: Maximizing Tax Efficiency for Estates and Transfers
Basis planning is a critical tool for minimizing tax liabilities and maximizing asset value during estate planning and transfers. This session will explore strategies to optimize basis adjustments, including step-up and step-down considerations, and their impact on capital gains and estate taxes. Gain insights into common scenarios, such as gifting versus inheriting assets, and learn how to structure transactions to achieve favorable tax outcomes for your clients. Whether planning for lifetime gifts or post-mortem transfers, this session equips attorneys with the knowledge to enhance the financial benefits of their clients' estate plans
Shawn M. McCullough, Harrison LLP, Chicago
Lunch Break 12:15 PM – 1:30 PM
Breakout Session 7: 1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Track A
GST Basics
Get to know the basics of Generation-Skipping Transfer (GST) taxation and how it fits into trust planning. Explore the mechanics of the GST tax, available exemptions, and practical strategies for structuring multi-generational wealth transfers.
Julie J. Olenn, BMO Financial Group, Chicago
Track B
Discretionary Distributions: Balancing Trustee Authority and Beneficiary Needs
Discretionary distributions are a powerful estate planning tool, offering trustees the flexibility to address beneficiaries' unique circumstances. This session delves into the nuances of drafting and administering discretionary distribution provisions. Explore best practices for balancing trustee discretion with fiduciary obligations, mitigating conflicts among beneficiaries, and ensuring compliance with legal and tax considerations. Learn how to craft clear guidelines that align with the grantor's intent while providing trustees with the tools they need to make sound, equitable decisions.
Joe Blumberg, ArentFox Schiff, Chicago
Christin Handa, Northern Trust, Chicago
Transition 2:30 PM – 2:40 PM
Breakout Session 8: 2:40 PM – 3:40 PM
Track A
GRATS, CRATS, CRUTS - The Alphabet Soup of Estate Planning
Dive into the world of acronym trusts and their role in advanced estate planning. This session provides an overview of Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs), Charitable Remainder Annuity Trusts (CRATs), Charitable Remainder Unitrusts (CRUTs) and other acronym trusts, highlighting their unique features and strategic applications. Additionally, explore the reciprocal trust doctrine, its implications in estate planning, and how to structure trusts to avoid triggering unintended tax consequences.
Georgia Demeros, Thompson Coburn LLP, Chicago
Jennifer F. Kuzminski, Aronberg Goldgehn, Chicago
Track B
Multi-State Estate Planning
Estate planning becomes more complex when clients have assets that span multiple states. This session explores the intricacies of multi-state estate planning, including Illinois tax considerations, administrative requirements, and strategies for clients contemplating relocation. Learn how to adapt estate plans to align with the rules of multiple jurisdictions and create flexible and effective plans that anticipate your clients’ evolving needs and ensure smooth administration across state lines.
Julie S. Pleshivoy, Taft Stettinius & Hollister LLP, Chicago
Transition 3:40 PM – 3:50 PM
Closing Plenary: 3:50 PM – 4:50 PM
Understanding Psychological Dynamics in Probate Litigation
(1 mental health and substance abuse professional responsibility)
Probate litigation often involves more than legal arguments—it touches deeply personal and emotional aspects of clients' lives. This session explores the psychological dynamics that underpin family disputes, grief, and decision-making during probate proceedings. Gain insights into how emotions impact legal strategies, client relationships, and case outcomes and learn to navigate these complex dynamics, fostering stronger client relationships, and achieving more constructive resolutions in probate cases.
Champaign: Dr. Colin Brietzke, Chicagoland Neuropsychology, Chicago &
Thomas P. Downey, SI Elder Law, LLC, Marion
Chicago: Sarah M. LeRose, Law Office of Leonard J. LeRose, Jr., Ltd., Chicago
4:50 Adjourn
= IICLE® Publications Author
