(CHICAGO) Katten announced today that Chris Hopkins has joined the firm's Private Wealth practice as a partner in Chicago. Hopkins joins Katten from Perkins Coie, where he advised high-net-worth individuals, families, entrepreneurs and business owners on sophisticated estate planning, wealth transfer, and trust and estate administration matters.
"Chris is a highly regarded private wealth lawyer whose experience advising ultra-high-net-worth individuals and multigenerational families further strengthens our nationally recognized platform," said Joshua Rubenstein, global chair of Katten's Private Wealth department. "His sophisticated practice, client-centered approach and deep ties to the Chicago market make him an outstanding addition to our team as we continue to expand our capabilities and grow strategically in key markets."
Hopkins counsels clients on estate planning strategies designed to preserve and transfer wealth across generations, including business succession planning, charitable giving structures and fiduciary matters. A former litigator, he regularly appears in the probate and chancery divisions of Chicago-area courts and is well-versed in fiduciary litigation, developing immediate and long-term practical solutions to minimize the potential for disputes.
"Chris's arrival reflects the continued momentum of our private wealth practice in Chicago and our commitment to investing in top-tier talent," said Tye Klooster, co-head of Katten's Chicago Private Wealth practice. "His experience serving individuals, families and businesses aligns seamlessly with the collaborative, high-touch service our clients expect from Katten."
Katten's Private Wealth practice unites three essential components — planning, administration and litigation — across local, national and international levels. The group advises clients on structuring trusts and inheritances, protecting assets, optimizing taxes, planning and implementing business succession strategies, integrating philanthropy into planning, administering complex estates, and resolving family conflicts, estate and trust disputes, and controversies with taxing and regulatory authorities.