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Estate Planning Short Course 2025 – Live Webcast

Illinois’ Estate Planning Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Event

📅 May 5–6, 2025 | 📍 Online - Login to your account

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About the Estate Planning Short Course – Live Webcast

The Estate Planning Short Course – Live Webcast provides Illinois attorneys and estate planning professionals with an in-depth update on current laws, trends, and practical strategies. Now available as a fully virtual event, the webcast format offers the flexibility to participate from your home or office without the need to travel.

Presented by the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE®), this two-day program delivers sessions led by experienced practitioners in the areas of estate and trust law, tax planning, and wealth transfer strategies. Whether you are new to estate planning or seeking updates to better serve your clients, this course provides practical content designed to support your practice.

Program Highlights

  • Estate and Trust Law Updates: Review key developments in Illinois estate planning and trust administration.
  • Planning Strategies: Explore techniques for asset protection, tax considerations, and fiduciary responsibilities.
  • Professional Practice Topics: Address emerging issues, including technology use and ethical considerations in estate planning.
  • Flexible Learning: Attend sessions live online and access electronic program materials through your IICLE account.
  • Interactive Features: Participate in live Q&A opportunities with session presenters.

What Past Attendees Are Saying

See what legal professionals have to say about the Estate Planning Short Course.

"The session on current developments was excellent, covering topics like divorce, estate planning, 2023 sunset, trustee roles, and drafting to avoid litigation."

"I loved the 'real life' experiences and stories shared during the program."

“Innovative topics for ethics credit!”


Live Webcast Event Details

📅 Dates: Monday, May 5 – Tuesday, May 6, 2025

🎓 CLE Credits: 12.25 General CLE Credits, including:
1 General PR Credit
1 Mental Health/Substance Abuse PR Credit

🎓 Post-Event Online On-Demand CLE Credits: 8.0 General CLE Credits, including:
1 General PR Credit

💰 Pricing: $715

💰 Discount Pricing:
50% Discount for IICLE Online All-Access Subscribers
15% Discount for Groups of 3 or More from Same Firm
$175 Tuition for IICLE New Lawyer Starter Kit Subscribers


Registration Discounts

New Lawyer Discount

Members of the IICLE® New Lawyer Starter Kit can attend for just $175.

Group Rate

Register 3 or more lawyers from the same firm and receive a 15% discount.
Call 217-787-2080 to apply.

All-Access Subscribers Save 50%

Get 50% off when you register with an active IICLE® All-Access Subscription.


Thank You to Our Sponsors


Agenda

Explore the sessions and speakers for each day. Click on a session title to view its full description.

Day 1: Monday, May 5, 2025

View Day 1 Session Descriptions


Day 2: Tuesday, May 6, 2025

View Day 2 Session Descriptions



Session Descriptions

Select the day and click on the title to show the full description

Panel of Current Developments: New Laws, New Regulations and How They Are Practically Applied

Panel discussion covering recent legislative updates, regulatory changes, and practical applications. Moderated by Elizabeth A. Garlovsky, the session features Adam Garber and Steven L. Kriz discussing new laws, tax code updates, and real-world implications for estate planners.

Panel Moderator: Elizabeth A. Garlovsky, Harrison LLP, Chicago 📘
Adam Garber, Levenfeld Pearlstein LLC, Chicago 📘
Steven L. Kriz, Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC, Chicago

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

Grantor Trusts in General (Track A)

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.

Adam Garber, Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC, Chicago 📘
Stephen I. Pratt, Levenfeld Pearlstein, LLC, Chicago

Case Law and Legislative Update: Trust and Estate Fiduciaries (Track B)

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 📘

Leveraging Trusts as Collateral for Loans in Estate Planning (Track A)

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 📘

Planning for the Effective Administration of Charitable Estates and Trusts (Track B)

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 📘

Artificial Intelligence and its Impact on Trusts and Estates Practice (Track A)

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

Primer on Discovery Issues for Estate Planners (Track B)

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 📘

IRA Basics (Track A)

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.

Payton M. Heyen Pech, Sandberg Phoenix, St. Louis

Post-Mortem Planning (Track B)

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 📘

Introduction to Illinois Trust Code (Track A)

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

Estate Planning for Retirement Heavy Estates (Track B)

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

Introduction to Illinois Estate Tax (Track A)

This introductory guide explains the fundamentals of the Illinois Estate Tax, including who is subject to the tax, exemption thresholds, and filing requirements.

Hugh F. Drake, Brown, Hay + Stephens, Springfield 📘

Basis Planning: Maximizing Tax Efficiency for Estates and Transfers (Track B)

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 📘

GST Basics (Track A)

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 📘

Discretionary Distributions: Balancing Trustee Authority and Beneficiary Needs (Track B)

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

GRATS, CRATS, CRUTS – The Alphabet Soup of Estate Planning (Track A)

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

Multi-State Estate Planning (Track B)

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 📘

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.

Dr. Colin Brietzke, Chicagoland Neuropsychology, Chicago
Thomas P. Downey, SI Elder Law, LLC, Marion

📘 = IICLE® Publications Author


Additional Event Information

Special Needs

If you need any accommodations for disabilities or special needs, please contact IICLE at 217-787-2080 as far in advance of the program date as possible so that we can determine our ability to reasonably accommodate your needs and make related arrangements in a timely fashion.

Illinois CLE Credit

IICLE is designated as an Accredited CLE Provider with the Illinois MCLE Board. Therefore, this program is approved for 12.25 total IL MCLE credits, including 1 hour of mental health/substance abuse professional responsibility credit and 1 hour of general professional responsibility credit. All professional responsibility credits are pending approval until approved by the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Professionalism.

Other CLE Credit

  • Estate Planning Short Course 2025 has been submitted to American Bankers’ Association Professional Certifications for CE credit review and is pending approval.
  • CFP® Credit Pending Approval. Final determination of credit eligibility will be confirmed upon approval.

Program Materials

Program materials will be available to you electronically via your account on the IICLE website. IICLE does not provide hard copies of program materials unless otherwise specified.

Financial Hardship Policy

IICLE maintains a policy to ensure that certain attorneys experiencing financial hardship have the opportunity to participate in IICLE programs. You can view our financial hardship policy and apply for a financial hardship award.

Cancellations & No Shows

IICLE accepts live program registrations through the conclusion of the live program. Because IICLE provides online on-demand access to the recording of the live program to all paid registrants and provides program materials in advance of the program date, only paid registrants who cancel at least 10 business days before the program date will be given a full refund and no refunds will be issued to no shows to live in person or live webcast registrants.


Frequently Asked Questions – Live Webcast

How do I access the live webcast?

You can log in and access the webcast through your IICLE account at www.iicle.com/my-content. We recommend logging in at least 15 minutes early to test your connection.

What technology do I need to participate?

You’ll need a reliable internet connection and a device (computer, tablet, or phone) with audio. No special software is required—just a modern web browser like Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Edge.

Will I still earn CLE credit if I attend virtually?

Yes. Attendees of the live webcast are eligible for up to 12.25 Illinois MCLE hours, the same as in-person attendees. You must attend the sessions in real time to receive live credit.

Will I have access to session materials?

Yes. You will receive access to digital course materials prior to the event via your IICLE account. Printed materials are not provided.

Can I ask questions during the sessions?

Yes. Each session includes a live Q&A where you can submit questions to the presenters through the webcast platform.

Is the webcast recorded?

All registered attendees will receive complimentary access to the on-demand version after the event, allowing you to review any sessions you missed live.


Secure Your Spot for Estate Planning Short Course 2025

Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your estate planning expertise, network with industry leaders, and earn Illinois CLE credits. Join us in Champaign, Chicago, or virtually for a comprehensive learning experience.

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