Stephen Eckert

Working within our National Tax Office, I focus on tax policy, legislation, and other emerging tax issues. I frequently consult with clients across all service and industry lines advising them on the impact of those developments and the availability of tax planning opportunities. I’m also a specialist in the nuanced tax aspects of business transactions, including expertise with the complex structuring of the sales and acquisitions of businesses. My clients appreciate that I focus on their business objectives to structure transactions and tax planning strategies that respond to the evolving tax rules while also accomplishing their short-term and long-term goals.

I frequently write and speak at business, accounting, and legal events on emerging tax issues and mergers and acquisitions. As a firmwide expert on tax issues, I’ve authored articles on emerging tax issues for publications such as TAXES - The Tax Magazine®. I’ve also written for internal and external outlets on the recent tax legislation as it moved through Congress—and as it continues to be implemented.

Plante Moran has been an ideal firm for me since it allows me to work with great clients and colleagues across our many service areas. I consider my participation in the growth of the National Tax Office — including the establishment of a growing, dynamic team in Chicago — to be one of my greatest accomplishments. I’ve also had the great fortune of continuing my personal development by learning from many amazing colleagues and clients.

I’m a member of the Chicago Bar Association and the American Bar Association. I received my B.A. in political science from the University of Notre Dame, my J.D. from the Chicago–Kent College of Law, and my LL.M. from the New York University School of Law.

When I’m not working, I love traveling and exploring new places. I enjoy visiting neighborhoods across Chicago, spending time with my family in Milwaukee and Michigan, and seeing friends across the country.