Brian K. Jones
Office Managing Partner | Chicago, IL & Naples, FL
Brian represents clients in matters related to estate planning and administration, tax and retirement planning.
Brian’s focus on estate planning and wealth preservation is driven by a commitment to helping wealthy families and individuals secure their legacy. With a strong foundation of over 19 years in the private client practice area, he has implemented personalized strategies for asset protection, wealth preservation and tax efficient wealth transfer. His role includes the ongoing management of private client matters, private foundations, and complex fiduciary matters.
Brian’s contributions to his field have been acknowledged with 9 consecutive years of Five Star Wealth Manager Awards, recognition as a Leading Lawyer for multiple years. His practice group's collaborative approach, coupled with his licensure in both Illinois and Florida, ensures comprehensive support for his clients' diverse estate planning needs. This synergy of expertise and client-centered service defines his practice as a professional fiduciary.
In his past life, Brian was a Division 1 linebacker at Eastern Illinois University for 4.5 years, redshirting, then earning a full-ride scholarship after walking on and making the team.
Outside the office, for the past ~ 7 years he trains Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, so far earning his brown belt.
Capabilities
Estate Planning
Estate & Trust Administration
Family Office Services
Speeches & Publications
“Liability Insurance: The Strongest Pillar in an Asset Protection Plan,” Chicago Daily Law Bulletin (September 22, 2014)
“Ancillary Administration,” IICLE Press (August 1, 2014)
“Reflections – I am a Corporal,” Chicago Daily Law Bulletin (August 29, 2013)
Brian K. Jones and Jerry D. Jones “Expect the Unexpected,” Trusts & Estates, (Penton Media, February 1, 2012)
“Grantor Retained Annuity Trusts (GRATs) – “Heads I Win, Tails We Tie,” Chicago Bar Association, Estate Planning Committee (2014)
“Liability Insurance and Its Role in Asset Protection and Estate Planning”, Chicago Bar Association Estate Planning Committee (2012)
“The Evolving Application of the Step Transaction Doctrine in Estate Planning,” Chicago Bar Association Estate Planning Committee (2011)
“Drafting for Corporate Fiduciaries and Things You Need to Know About Being a Trustee,” Chicago Bar Association Trust Law Committee (2008)
Admissions
Florida
Illinois
U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois
Education
John Marshall Law School, J.D.
Eastern Illinois University, B.A.
Awards & Honors
Illinois Leading Lawyers (2020-present)
Five Star Wealth Manager Award, Chicago Magazine (2014 – Present)
Illinois Leading Lawyers, Emerging Lawyer (2015 – 2019)
Illinois Super Lawyers, Rising Star (2011-2013, 2015-2018)
Maurice Weigle Exceptional Young Lawyer Award, Chicago Bar Foundation (2014)
Milton H. Gray Award for Outstanding Project Leadership, the Young Lawyers Section of the Chicago Bar Association (2011)
Organizations
American Bar Association
Illinois State Bar Association
Chicago Bar Association
Florida Bar Association
Chicago Estate Planning Council
Lawyers Club of Chicago
