Martin Fogarty

I founded The Heartland Law Firm and ElderSmart, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families during the Elder Transition. With nearly three decades of experience, I have served as an attorney, mentor, and trusted guide through life’s most challenging moments.

Initially, I did not always enjoy being a lawyer. In my early years, I felt the profession was overly focused on documents and fees rather than on people. This perspective shifted as I started working with families dealing with loss, aging, and uncertainty. I realized the profound impact of blending legal knowledge with compassion, and from that point, I fully committed to my career.

Now, I am recognized nationally for advocating a reevaluation of how we support aging adults. I have contributed to setting a new standard in elder law that integrates social work and real-life care planning alongside legal documentation. I am driven by the belief that law should focus on restoring well-being, providing clarity amidst chaos, and empowering individuals to move forward with confidence.

My team and I assist families with estate planning, high net worth tax strategies, business succession, and elder law solutions, including Medicaid and VA benefits. Whether it's drafting a will or creating a comprehensive family care plan, our objective remains consistent: to foster calm, protect dignity, and simplify life so that people can cherish the gift of life.

I grew up in the Austin neighborhood of Chicago, graduated from Loyola Law School, and now reside in Glenview with my wife, our four children, and our family dog. Throughout everything, my fundamental belief remains unchanged—life is a journey, and everyone needs a guide at times. That’s the purpose of The Heartland Law Firm.

Illinois

Supreme Court of Illinois

ID Number: 6201215