Mark’s counsel involves deeply personal matters — death, disability and intrafamily disputes — that impact finances, relationships and legal complexity in equal measure. Whether representing individuals or institutions, Mark takes a thoughtful approach that accounts for all of these considerations, developing practical, effective strategies that accomplish his clients’ objectives in the most efficient and expeditious manner possible.
When advising his clients, Mark takes a direct and pragmatic approach, offering an honest assessment of the problems, risks and costs involved in each case. He is upfront about what goals may or may not be worth pursuing, establishes and defines realistic expectations and outlines a reasonable strategy for moving forward.
As an advocate for the family members and financial institutions who serve either as guardians or trustees for disabled individuals, Mark counsels clients in planning for, managing and resolving issues related to death, dying and disability. He spends much of his time in court, not only administering estates and trusts but also litigating contested guardianships and will and trust disputes. A formidable courtroom presence, Mark is a relentless fighter for his clients’ rights who also recognizes that protracted litigation is rarely the optimal solution for these conflicts. He knows that securing his clients’ well-being or protecting an estate’s assets often requires creativity and diplomacy to reach negotiated resolutions that achieve the desired result without the burdens, costs and unpredictability of a judicially imposed outcome.
Courts recognize Mark’s skills, judgment and commitment to protecting vulnerable individuals, often appointing him to serve as a Guardian Ad Litem or Special Administrator in adult disabled and decedent’s estates. Mark has also developed a strong niche in working with financial institutions to administer disability and pension benefits for veterans’ guardianships.
Drawing from his deep experience with probated wills and trusts, Mark welcomes opportunities to help families and individuals create strong estate plans that can avoid pitfalls down the road. His extensive experience with guardianships also benefits estate planning clients in considering disability and end-of-life contingencies. In estate administration matters, Mark works closely with executors, trustees and beneficiaries to relieve them of the stress and pressures of an unfamiliar and complex process, efficiently closing estates in a way that provides clarity and conclusiveness.
The foundation for Mark’s success in all aspects of his practice was established immediately after he graduated from law school, when he served for three years as Assistant Public Guardian for Cook County and eight years as private counsel for the Cook County Public Administrator’s Office. Together, these positions gave him invaluable experience and know-how regarding all aspects of guardianship, probate and trust administration and litigation.
Mark has spoken on estate administration issues for the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE) and regularly speaks to community groups on estate planning and disability issues. He has previously served on and chaired Chuhak & Tecson’s Finance Committee and has also served on the Compensation Committee.
