Handler Law’s Nina B. Stillman, J.D., LL.M., was recently featured in the Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Impact Report, recognizing her inspiring journey through their highly rated Master of Laws in Taxation program.
While the Impact Report often highlights recent graduates, Nina’s story stands out for a different reason, her determination to return to law school at age 56, balancing a thriving legal career, part-time coursework and personal challenges.
“I was happily welcomed to the community,” Nina shared, “even though a few students thought I must be a teacher at the school!” As the oldest student in each of her three cohorts, Nina found both inspiration and camaraderie among her peers and professors. “I was impacted by the young students, both their drive to get through the program and their ability to accept an older student as an equal. The faculty and staff were incredibly supportive, and I was buoyed by their kindness during a very difficult time.”
Nina began the LL.M. Tax program in January 2021, entirely virtual due to COVID-19, and persevered through the challenges of remote learning and illness. Her resilience, curiosity, and commitment to lifelong learning not only carried her through the program but opened new doors in her professional life.
“Returning to school reignited my love for the law,” Nina said. “It gave me the confidence to pursue new opportunities and deepened my understanding of the complex intersections between tax and estate planning.”
That pursuit ultimately led Nina to join Handler Law, where she now works alongside senior partners, advising ultra-high-net-worth clients and family offices on sophisticated estate and tax strategies.
Nina continues to support Northwestern and its LL.M. program, crediting it for giving her renewed purpose, both personally and professionally. “The program gave me strength when I needed it most, lifelong friendships, and a deeper appreciation for my practice. I’ll always be grateful for that.”
Handler Law congratulates Nina on this well-deserved recognition and her remarkable example of perseverance, growth and dedication to excellence in law and lifelong learning.
Read the full report: Northwestern Pritzker School of Law Impact Report