William J. "Bill" Butler

William J. "Bill" Butler

Chicago, IL recognized lawyers icon Recognized in Best Lawyers since 2013
McDermott Will & Schulte

259 Best Lawyers awards

McDermott Will & Schulte logo

Awarded Practice Areas

Trusts and Estates

Biography

William (Bill) J. Butler focuses his practice on estate planning and probate administration matters. Bill counsels family groups and individuals on all aspects of wealth transfer planning, with an emphasis on formulating estate plans that maximize and protect wealth while minimizing transfer taxes. Bill is the global head of McDermott’s Private Client Group and is a member of the Firm’s Management Committee.

Bill represents many large, multigenerational family groups, and also advises with their family office executives on family office administration and structure issues. Bill regularly counsels younger generation family members on learning to be responsible wealth managers. He also assists a number of families on all legal issues involving their privately owned business, including governance matters, succession planning and shareholder agreements.

Read full biography: https://www.mwe.com/people/butler-william-j/

McDermott Will & Schulte

259 Best Lawyers awards

McDermott Will & Schulte logo

Overview

  • Northwestern University, J.D., graduated 1987
  • Northwestern University, J.D., graduated 1987

Client Testimonials

Bill continues to be the best estate and tax planning lawyer in the city of Chicago. His level of knowledge, caring and ability to explain complicated issues clearly and comfortably to all generations is a wonderful gift.

Bill Butler is a great partner in our trust and estate planning. He is thoughtful and practical in his advice.

Awards & Focus

Recognized in The Best Lawyers in America® 2026 for work in:
  • Trusts and Estates

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