Experienced transactional attorney with a practice focused primarily on advanced planning for family offices and their businesses. Representative domestic and international matters include: corporate governance, structuring, taxation, alternative investment opportunities (including real property, private equity and debt, venture capital, and hedge funds), and philanthropic endeavors.

Career Highlights

• Currently serving as an inaugural co-chair of the newly-created Family Office Committee at the Chicago Bar Association during the 2024-2025 bar year (the first bar committee of its kind in the United States)

• Currently serving as the programmes secretary for the Chicago Branch of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners

• Currently serving as the national chair of the University & Family Business Centers Committee of the Private Directors Association

Educational Highlights

• Holds two (2) law degrees from Loyola University Chicago, including an LL.M. in Business & Corporate Governance Law where he wrote a master’s thesis that analyzed the economic and legal environments that gave rise to the financial collapse in the United States in 2007 and 2008

• Holds two (2) degrees from the University of Notre Dame, including an undergraduate degree that was earned in just three (3) years and a graduate business degree from the Mendoza College of Business

Biographical Summary

A problem-solver at his core, Nicholas has developed a reputation among clients as being able to manage most any challenge – often becoming a quarterback of sorts for affluent families with complex legal issues, including during times of crisis and succession planning. While himself adept with real estate matters and a thought leader in his practice area, Nicholas’ best skill is often managing outside resources at moments of urgent need.

Professional Designations & Accreditations

• Trust & Estate Practitioner (TEP®), Society of Trust & Estate Practitioners

• Certified Trust and Fiduciary Advisor (CTFA®), American Bankers Association

• Accredited Estate Planner (AEP®), National Association of Estate Planners & Councils

• Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA®), Exit Planning Institute

• Certified Director (NACD.DC®), National Association of Corporate Directors

• Certificate in Private Company Governance, Private Directors Association

• Certified Mediator, Chicago Bar Association Mediation Service