Denise D. Russo

Denise D. Russo is an attorney whose practice centers on guiding individuals and families through complex legal decisions. Her work focuses on long-term planning, careful administration, and clear communication. Clients value her ability to explain options plainly while addressing sensitive issues involving assets, family goals, and future security.

Denise built her legal foundation through a structured academic path that supports her practice focus. She earned a B.A. in 1978 from Indiana University with a major in Speech Communication. She later completed a J.D. in 1981 at John Marshall Law School, followed by an LL.M. in Estate Planning in 2016 from John Marshall Law School.

Denise began her law career in public service, gaining courtroom experience as a Cook County Public Defender. That role strengthened her advocacy skills and practical judgment. She later managed her own private law practice, where she handled varied legal matters and developed a client-focused approach grounded in responsibility and preparation.

Denise concentrates her practice on Estate Planning, Estate Administration, and Trust Administration. She assists with wills, trusts, powers of attorney, health care directives, and pre-marital agreements. Her planning strategies aim to avoid probate, reduce tax exposure, and preserve assets through thoughtful structure and careful documentation.

Denise is admitted to practice law in Illinois and Texas, as well as before the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. District Court Northern District of Illinois. She maintains active memberships in the Illinois State Bar Association, Chicago Estate Planning Council (CEPC), and the Justinian Society of Lawyers. She is fluent in Spanish.

Denise also has experience across several additional practice areas, including Probate and Guardianship, Business Formations, Commercial Litigation, Appeals, Landlord-Tenant Litigation, and Family Law matters. This broad background supports her estate-focused work by allowing her to anticipate related legal concerns and coordinate solutions that align with each client’s situation and practical legal coordination overall.

Denise D. Russo approaches every matter with attention to detail and steady guidance. Her work emphasizes clarity, preparation, and long-term planning outcomes. By combining courtroom experience with advanced estate education, she helps clients move forward confidently, knowing their plans are organized, enforceable, and designed to protect what matters most.

Law Office Affiliations

• Of Counsel, Salvi, Salvi & Wifler, P.C.
• Member, Illinois State Bar Association
• Member, Chicago Estate Planning Council
• Member, Justinian Society of Lawyers

Licensed State

• California
• Texas

Education

• John Marshall Law School
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Indiana University
  Bachelor of Arts (BA)
• John Marshall Law School
  Master of Laws (LLM)

Awards & Badges