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Ryan W. Gardner

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About Ryan

Ryan W. Gardner is an Estate Planning and Asset Protection Attorney at Lavelle Law, Ltd., a mid-size, full-service law firm with offices in downtown Chicago and the Northwest suburbs.  Ryan regularly counsels and represents individuals and families, business owners, and diverse entrepreneurs, helping to educate and navigate simple to complex estate and business succession planning by creating sensible, customized solutions to ensure that his clients' families, assets, and business interests are protected.

Practice areas

GuardianshipProbateBusinessEstate planning
  1. Estate planning: 70%

    Wills, Living/Revocable Trusts, Medical/Financial Powers of Attorney, Special Needs Planning, LLCs, Deeds, Irrevocable Instruments, Gifting Trusts, Family Settlement Agreements, Land Trusts, Real Estate Planning, Succession Planning

  2. Business: 10%

    LLCs, Operating Agreements, Shareholder Agreements, Corporate Formation, Tax Planning, Business Succession Planning

  3. Probate: 10%

    Decedent's Estates, Guardianship Estates, Small Estate Affidavits, Non-Judicial Settlement Agreements, Virtual Representation, All Aspects of Court-Administered Probate Estates

  4. Guardianship: 10%

    Disabled Adults, Minor Estates, Accountings, All Aspects of Court-Administered Guardianship Proceedings

Languages spoken

English

Photos and videos

4692948 1476307228

4692948 1510254180

Contact

141 W. Jackson Boulevard
address map

Lavelle Law, Ltd.

141 W. Jackson Boulevard
Suite 2800
Chicago, IL, 60604

Lavelle Law, Ltd.

1933 N. Meacham Road
Suite 600
Scahumburg, IL, 60173

Resume

License
StateStatusAcquiredUpdated
ILActive And Authorized To Practice Law201512/06/2020
We have not found any instances of professional misconduct for this lawyer.
Avvo Contributions
Legal answers1
Legal guides0
Awards
Award nameGrantorDate granted
CALI Excellence for the Future AwardDePaul University College of Law2013
Work Experience
TitleCompany nameDuration
AttorneyLavelle Law, Ltd.2015 - Present
Judicial Extern for the Honorable Aurelia PucinskiIllinois Appellate Court 1st Judicial District2014 - 2014
Paralegal/Law ClerkNovack & Macey, LLP2008 - 2014
Associations
Association namePosition nameDuration
Illinois State Bar AssociationMember2015 - Present
American Bar AssociationMember2015 - Present
Legal Assistance Foundation (LAF)Volunteer / Pro Bono Attorney2015 - Present
Chicago Bar AssociationMember2012 - Present
Publications
Publication nameTitleDate
Lavelle Law, Ltd.Bitcoin, Cryptocurrency, and Estate Planning2018
Lavelle Law, Ltd.Aretha Franklin’s Estate Troubles, and How to Avoid Them2018
Blog Talk Radio - Chicago Legal LatteHow to Select the Right Trustee and Executor2018
Lavelle Law, Ltd.Pet Trusts – What You Need to Know to Safeguard Your Beloved Animals2017
Blog Talk Radio - Chicago Legal LatteLegal Considerations for the Family Lake House and Vacation Home Co-Ownership2017
Blog Talk Radio - Chicago Legal LatteEstate Planning for New Parents2016
Lavelle Law, Ltd.Planning for...Your Digital Legacy2016
Blog Talk Radio - Chicago Legal LatteReviewing and Updating Your Beneficiary Designations2016
Lavelle Law, Ltd.Selecting Your Successor Trustee2015
Education
School nameDegreeGraduated
DePaul University College of LawJD - Juris Doctor2014
Michigan State UniversityBA - Bachelor of Arts2008
Speaking Engagements
Conference nameTitleDate
Monthly Continuing EducationThe Importance of Estate Planning2019
KW Lunch & LearnProtecting Rental and Investment Properties2017
Career Builder MentoringWhy Everyone Needs Estate Planning2017
SBA ConnectionsNon-Tax Benefits of Revocable Trusts2015
Legal cases
Case nameOutcome
Special Needs TrustHappy clients
Business Succession PlanHappy clients

Reviews

(37)
5 Star
100%
4 Star
0%
3 Star
0%
2 Star
0%
1 Star
0%
Review Ryan Gardner

Complex law explained plainly and thoroughly

Posted by

My wife and I hired Ryan to help us do estate planning, something that felt icky but necessary since we had just had our first child. We met with Ryan and associates in his office and he patiently and clearly explained the complexities of Illinois estate laws, guiding us to make decisions that we hope to never have to think about, but if that sad day comes we know we'll be in good shape. His office was also very accommodating of how we signed the paperwork since this all went down during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Fantastic Estate Planning Experience

Posted by

To most people estate planning can seem overwhelming and even somewhat 'boring'. However, it is something very important to plan for the future. Ryan did a fantastic job of not only simplifying what can be a very complex process, but also making the journey fun. The way he walked us through the process was engaging, relatable, and anything but boring. He explained everything in simple terms, provided insight, personalized the experience to us (vs a generic presentation given to all clients) and then allowed us to make decisions. We left our meeting feeling knowledgeable about the process, enthusiastic about our experience and knew we were in great hands with Ryan. I would highly recommend him as an attorney!
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

First time estate planning.

Posted by

My husband and I knew nothing about estate planning. Our goal was to find someone that would help us create the best plan for our family. We were nervous about the whole process and didn't quite understand the estate planning process. After consulting with Ryan, we felt confident that he would create the best trust for our family. Ryan is professional, knowledgeable, and funny. Some of the decisions that have to be made during estate planning may be difficult, such as, discussing guardianship for your small children. However, Ryan found a way to put us at ease with his expertise and sense of humor (just the right balance). In the end, the process could not have been any smoother. He walked us through all of our decisions (giving us all scenarios), educated us on estate laws, etc., how to store our documents, and how to communicate with our loved ones about our decisions. Now, we feel secure with the plan that we have in place. If you are new to this process, like we were, feel confident that Ryan will answer any and every question you have about this process.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

It was a true pleasure working with Ryan

Posted by

Working with Ryan was a true pleasure. As a custodian for my elder parents, it is nerve-wrecking having to go through their final wishes and plan for what happens when they pass on. It gave my parents immense comfort working with Ryan. He explained all of their options and suggested the best route he felt worked for their finances and assets. It is tough for my parents, who are South Asian background, to fully trust and open up to someone, especially if they do not understand the culture and it's nuances. Ryan took the time to answer all of their questions, and built a trusting relationship with them. I would highly recommend Ryan and his team to anyone looking to plan for their elder parents' future or for their own future. He is professional, knowledgeable, and patient. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Excellent Estate Planning Attorney!

Posted by

Ryan is the best!! He did an excellent job in creating my estate plan documents, as well as my mothers estate plan documents. He was such a great person to work with from beginning to end. I highly recommend him to do your estate plan documents. He’s awesome, kind, and very knowledgeable. I will continue to refer him to all my family and friends. Thank you, Ryan, for giving me and my family peace of mind. It was a pleasure working with you! (:
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Great attorney

Posted by

Ryan is a pleasure to work with! He really helped my husband and I while educating us on long-term planning as well. We would highly recommend him.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

A great experience from beginning to end!!

Posted by

Estate planning is one of those things that you put off but is a necessity. Ryan made the entire process painless and perfect. He asked all the right questions and made solid recommendations. He was incredibly thorough and took the time to make sure that I understood everything. Ryan answered all my questions and didn’t nickel and dime me on time. In addition to completing my estate planning, he reviewed my mother’s plan to insure everything was in order. Once everything was finalized Ryan asked for feedback on himself, which was a refreshing end to the process and my experience.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Estate planning

Posted by

Ryan and his team did an excellent job in helping my family create an estate plan. We had a discovery session where he listened to our family’s needs. He gave us some great insights into what other family’s like ours had done in terms of estate planning while also affirming decisions we were convicted about. Overall a great experience and will be using his team going forward for other estate needs.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Estate Planning

Posted by

Ryan was such a pleasure to work with in setting up our estate plan. He took the time to explain the entire process in terms we could easily understand. He was also patient and thoughtful when answering all of our questions. We felt very comfortable with Ryan, and would highly recommend him.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney

Porbate case

Posted by

Ryan was hired by our family to assist with the probate case for my grandfather. He was compassionate, responsive, and always took the time to explain every step of the process to establish clear and realistic expectations. The fee for his service was also very reasonable. It was a pleasure working with him and I highly recommend hiring Ryan for probate representation.
This review is from a person who hired this attorney.
Hired attorney
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Attorney endorsements

(23)
Are you an attorney? Endorse this lawyer

Colleen Hurley, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 20, 2018
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan is knowledgeable, ethical, caring, and attentive when it comes to helping clients navigate estate planning issues. He can be counted on to provide personalized attention and a quality deliverable. I highly recommend him!

Adam Urbanczyk, Business Attorney on Nov 15, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan is an attentive, experienced, and pragmatic business attorney.

Jordan Rosenberg, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 15, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Your search for a lawyer ends here. Ryan is a stand up person, is intelligent and is committed to his practice. I highly highly endorse Ryan for all areas of law and is just a great person to know all together. Added bonus: Ryan has an expansive network which he isn't hesitant to utilize to assist others.

Bibek Das, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 14, 2018
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Ryan is an excellent attorney with great character. He is diligent and attentive to his client's needs. He is extremely knowledgeable in estate planning. I would not hesitate to recommend him to my clients.

Christina Martell, Estate planning Attorney on Jul 3, 2017
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

As a former classmate and fellow attorney in the community, I endorse Ryan as a trustworthy and competent lawyer. For this reason, my husband and I engaged his services for our estate planning, and we were completely satisfied with his representation. His knowledge, care for his clients, and diligence were obvious from the moment we met with him for a consultation. I highly endorse Ryan Gardner as a fellow attorney.

Jon Adler, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 12, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Ryan is a fantastic estate planning attorney. I have referred clients to him, and have heard nothing but great things from them about his work performance. I will continue to refer clients his way, and recommend others do so as well.

Steven Migala

Ryan is an excellent addition to our estate planning team whose enthusiasm is refreshing. He is highly committed to preparing customized estate plans which meet client objectives.

Kristina Regal, Probate Attorney on Jan 18, 2016
Relationship: Worked together on matter

Ryan is a talented, smart lawyer. He uses his substantial savvy to deliver excellent results for his clients. I can't say enough good things about Ryan. Not only does he possess great business sense, he also is a tireless advocate on behalf of his clients.

Michael Roth, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 18, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan is an enormous asset to Lavelle Law and the Clients we serve via our estate planning practice. He is an incredibly knowledgeable and diligent lawyer who takes a very personal approach to representing his clients.

Kerry Lavelle, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 10, 2015
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I endorse this lawyer. Ryan has really jumped into our firm and has added value to our estate planning group from the day he started. He is very thorough in his documentation of estate plans.

Chance Badertscher, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 10, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan is a motivated and driven attorney. He is committed to exceeding client expectations and I am constantly impressed with his knowledge in all areas of estate planning.

Sarah Flohr, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 10, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan is passionate about his clients and will ensure their questions are answered and their needs are met at every step of the estate planning process.

Heather Glaser

Ryan works tirelessly for his clients and guides them through every step, ensuring they are getting the results the client desires. He has set a high standard for both professionalism and ethics. I highly recommend this attorney.

Heather Walser, Estate planning Attorney on Nov 9, 2015
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

Ryan's enthusiasm and commitment to high-level client service are second to none. He is an asset to our estate planning practice group, and I endorse him without reservation.

Michael Ricciardello, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 19, 2015
Relationship: Fellow lawyer in community

Mr. Gardner is through and through a great attorney. His wealth of knowledge in the Estate Planning, Probate, Medicare, Medicaid and Guardianship fields make him an impressive mind to have in your corner. I know that he is knowledgable, respectful, personable and diligent. This makes him my first selection in referring anyone to an attorney in the aforementioned fields.

James Voigt, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 12, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan brings a high level of energy to any case he is handling, and is a strong advocate for all of his clients. He's a great problem solver and genuinely cares about the outcomes he is seeking for his clients. I definitely endorse Ryan.

Amil Alkass, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 9, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

I highly recommend Ryan. He is very knowledgeable about complex estate planning and probate issues. He is very hard-working and extremely talented and provides excellent representation and counsel for his clients.

James Doerr, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 9, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan is a very conscientious, diligent and focused lawyer. I recommend and endorse Ryan.

Jenet Pequeno, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 9, 2015
Relationship: Co-worker

Ryan has shown an eagerness and a passion for excellence in his legal work. He wants to put his client's interests first and foremost and walk them through the estate planning process to accomplish their goals. He is a budding future star in the legal community.

Matthew Sheahin, Estate planning Attorney on Oct 9, 2015
Relationship: Supervised lawyer

I endorse this lawyer. Ryan has shown a strong work ethic and great understanding of the law in regards to estate planning and probate that enables him to provide high quality legal services to clients at an affordable price.

Cost

RATES
  • Hourly Rates$290-$290/hour
  • Free Consultation Some lawyers offer a free consultation to help determine whether their services are right for your legal needs90 minutes
PAYMENT METHODS

Cash, Check, Credit Card