Donard, currently licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan, began his legal career at Crane Law Group, P.C., a boutique firm in Chicago, Illinois focused on estate planning, guardianship, and probate administration. There, he worked one-on-one with clients to craft personalized estate plans, including, wills, trusts, and powers of attorney, and guided families through the often complex probate process in Cook County. Through helping executors navigate their responsibilities and drafting trusts that protected future generations, Donard developed a practical, client-centered approach that still defines his work today.

His experience at Crane Law Group laid a strong foundation, which he has since built upon with years of high-level public service. As Deputy Chief of Legislative Affairs for the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Donard advocated on legislative matters involving consumer protection, student loans and energy, developing skills that allow him to gain a deep understanding of both legal and policy developments that may impact your estate planning needs. In his previous experience, he also serviced as Senior Legal Counsel to the Illinois Senate President, where he advised on legislation and provided legal analysis on issues ranging from estate planning to family law.

Donard earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Illinois Chicago School of Law in Chicago and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Michigan State University.