Brief biography

Charles (Karl) Herbst, J.D., LL.M. is an attorney in Rockford, Illinois. He is licensed to practice before the Internal Revenue Service nationally and in state courts in Illinois.

In addition to practicing law, he consults on business and tax issues. He is the author of numerous tax articles and other publications, including continuing professional education courses. An accomplished speaker and educator, he has presented to professional, civic, educational, and social organizations.

Mr. Herbst is a former chairman of the written publications committee of the Indiana State Bar Association. He likes to travel, has a sense of humor, and enjoys the company of creative, fun-loving people.

Honors and skills

• CCH Outstanding Customer Service Award
• Harrison Legal Writing Award
• Former Chair, Member, Written Publications Committee, Indiana State Bar Association
• Toastmasters International Distinguished Toastmaster; High Performance Leader
• Knowledgeable, effective tax planner. Efficient resolution of tax controversies.
• Decades of experience in business entities, real estate, and personal estate planning.
• Award-winning writer. Clear, well-organized books, articles, and training materials.
• Precise, understandable documents.
• Speaks informatively, persuasively, technically, and tells a story well.

Education and experience

• LL.M. (Masters in Tax Law),
  New York University School of Law
• B.S. Business, J.D. Law (cum laude),
  Indiana University
• Herbst Martyniuk O'Brien, Law Partner
• Mackenzie and Peden PSC,
  Associate Attorney
• International Tax Associates,
  Director of Federal Tax Research
• Ernst and Young LLP, Manager; Writer, Washington National Tax Writing Center
• CCH Incorporated, Writer Analyst

Significant accomplishments

Pioneered the use of LLCs. Formed some of the Midwest's first LLCs. Streamlined the LLC model to make it easier and more practical for smaller clients. Wrote and licensed LLC formbooks and software for use by over 130 law firms throughout the Midwest and beyond.

Author of regularly updated Continuing Professional Education courses for CCH on Energy Incentives, Higher Education Tax Incentives, and various Business Entities Tax Courses (Corporations, LLCs, S Corporations, and Partnerships).

Development of special needs trusts (SNTs) to facilitate Long Term Care and Medicaid Planning. Developed a trust structure using a protector that facilitates economical, long-term trust administration.

Groundbreaking IRS income tax ruling and Illinois property tax exemption for nonprofit, 25-acre ethnic park in South Elgin, Illinois.

Successful income tax appeals conference reduced client's tax liabilities from $400,000 to $15,000.

$35 million real estate acquisition.

Publications

Death in Cyberspace What will happen to your email and other accounts when you die? Are you sure? Whether you live in the USA or elsewhere, this award-winning article illustrates why you need to plan your cyber estate.

Will Limited Liability Companies Lead to Single Business Tax? Originally published in Taxes, this was the first published article to anticipate the rapid growth of gross receipts taxes as a substitute for state corporate income taxes.

New Business Entity Limits Liability--And Taxability Introduced Limited Liability Companies to lawyers in Indiana, the first Midwestern state to offer the LLC as a business entity.

Federal Tax Benefits for Financing College --But Will Congress Renege? Explains the various 21st century tax benefits available for attending college.

(Please note that developments since these articles have been published may affect outcomes. Please consult me before relying on them.)

More publications

For routine tax questions, or for breaking tax news, try my searchable tax blog, BeyondForm1040.

If you're looking for my personal blog, Autumn Leaves.

Testimonials

"Mr. Herbst’s insightful written discussions of tax topics of current interest to tax practitioners, especially in the area of choice of entity, are clear and practical, evidencing the keen knowledge and understanding that is necessary to navigate the increasing tax complexities encountered by today’s businesses and high-value individuals."
Maurice, Wadsworth, Illinois

"Thanks for helping me out in so many legal situations over the years since the 1980s. I have come to rely on your advice and counsel so much. How blessed I have been to have had a lawyer so knowledgeable, adept, and incisive on so many aspects. And a really clear, informative writer too."
Doug, Chicago, Illinois

"Thank God we got a good lawyer who is ahead of the game."
Al, Belvidere, Illinois

"You are always so prompt and do such a good job for us. Hope you will do our taxes for us next year."
Pat and Jan, Harrison, Arkansas

"You're a polished, unique speaker with wit and charm."
Patti, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

"Great Presentation. So natural and sincere. I was really impressed. I said to myself: 'Here is someone who can speak professionally."
Mark, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

"Our club really appreciated you assisting our club by presenting a very interesting educational session on team building! You did a great job tailoring the session to the needs of our club members and we really appreciate you joining us and presenting!"
Dianne, Madison, Wisconsin