Joel K. Heriford

Joel K. Heriford is a seasoned attorney and shareholder at Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A., serving in the firm’s Corporate Practice Group and Estate Planning and Probate Practice Group. With a legal career that spans over 35 years, Joel brings deep knowledge and a strategic approach to complex matters involving business formation, mergers, succession planning, and estate preservation. He rejoined the firm in 2006 after practicing law in Illinois and Iowa and currently leads Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.’s corporate and estate planning services.

Joel received his B.S. in Accounting from Illinois State University in 1979 and his J.D. from DePaul University College of Law in 1985.

Before his legal career, Joel worked as a Certified Public Accountant with the international firm Peat, Marwick, Mitchell & Company. This financial background informs his legal counsel, especially in areas involving tax law, estate taxation, and wealth planning. His corporate practice covers all stages of a business’s life cycle—from formation to operation and sale—and includes structuring strategic partnerships and guiding Section 1031 tax-deferred exchanges.

In estate planning, Joel is highly experienced in crafting customized plans for individuals, families, and business owners. His work includes tax-efficient wealth transfer, retirement planning, asset protection, charitable giving, and planning for non-traditional families. He frequently assists in the creation and administration of various trusts, including revocable, irrevocable, special needs, and charitable trusts. His collaborative team-based approach ensures alignment with clients’ accountants, financial advisors, and insurance professionals.

Joel K. Heriford is licensed in Arizona, Illinois, and Iowa. He is affiliated with Wealth Counsel LLC and The Advisors Forum, LLC. Recognized repeatedly by Super Lawyers, Phoenix Magazine, and Arizona Business Magazine, Joel is known for excellence in corporate finance, tax law, and mergers and acquisitions. Clients turn to Joel for his professionalism, technical acumen, and dedication to securing long-term financial stability and success.

Law Office Affiliations

• Shareholder, Burch & Cracchiolo, P.A.
• Member, State Bar of Arizona
• Member, State Bar of Illinois
• Member, State Bar of Iowa
• Member, Wealth Counsel LLC

Licensed State

Education

• DePaul University College of Law
  Juris Doctor (JD)
• Illinois State University
  Bachelor of Science (BS)

Awards & Badges