He authored “The Promissory Note Problem: Why Refinancing a Promissory Note May Create Income Tax and Gift Tax Consequences”, Trusts & Estates Magazine.  Ben is also the co-author of “Advising the Client with Sudden Wealth”, Journal of Taxation of Investments.

Additionally, Ben has presented before the Illinois Institute for Continuing Legal Education (IICLE) and the Chicago Bar Association (CBA) regarding various estate planning and trust administration issues, such as: (a) “Disinheritance Planning,” 52nd annual IICLE Estate Planning Short Course, (b) “Twilight Competency: Protecting The Not-Yet-Incompetent Who Are Fading, Forgetful, or Foolish,” 51st annual IICLE Estate Planning Short Course, (c) “Trust Protectors & Special Fiduciaries,” 49th annual IICLE Estate Planning Short Course, (d) “Allowances & Elections Against the Will,” (e)  “Common Pitfalls for Trustees & How to Avoid Related Litigation,” (f) Ethical Dilemmas in Estate Planning (g) “Basic Forms and Philosophies of Asset Protection” and (h) “Top Ten Things the EP Attorney should ask but often Forgets”.

Ben is also an active member of the Lake County Estate Planning Council.  Also, in 2009 and 2010, Ben was named to the selective roll of Illinois Super Lawyers Rising Stars.

Ben graduated summa cum laude from the University of Illinois (B.A. in Economics) and from Northwestern University School of Law (J.D.).  Before joining Strauss & Malk LLP, Ben practiced with two prominent Chicago law firms, and is admitted to practice in Illinois.

Email: bfeder@straussmalk.com