Construction Disputes and Defect Litigation

Nora Devine, a high-volume property tax appeal attorney, and Bradford Miller, a high-volume real estate closing attorney, share their property tax proration processes and best practices. You will learn the broad mechanics of property tax payments in Illinois and best practices for the common pitfalls at the closing table. The presenters have included worksheets and forms in the materials that you can utilize in your real estate closing practice.

Real estate attorneys work with deeds every day. Attorneys for sellers of land prepare deeds for their closings. Attorneys may think that “deeds” are a fairly mundane topic, but Dick Bales hopes to prove otherwise. Dick has put together a comprehensive handout discussing virtually every facet about deeds, including such matters as the Doctrine of After Acquired Title, Dresser Drawer Deeds, Signature by Mark, and Underwriting Wild Deeds. Public Act 102-927 recently amended 765 ILCS 5/8, the statute on special warranty deeds. This new legislation has resulted in some controversy. Dick has attempted to study the issues from all angles, and he hopes to provide some thoughtful commentary on this very topical subject.

Starting with an overview of access to legal services statewide, Melissa Smart, Director of Education at the ARDC, offers unique insights gained through the ARDC's enforcement role, provides practical guidance for addressing wellness and reputational issues, and forecasts developments that will impact all practice areas, including emerging technologies such as AI and revisions to RPC 1.5 and 1.15, effective July 1, 2023, regarding bookkeeping and safeguarding property.