Northwestern University v. McLoraine

This consolidated appeal, arising out of related cases in the circuit court, presents us with one question for decision: did the settlor of a revocable inter vivos trust validly amend that trust prior to her death?

Plaintiff Northwestern University filed a complaint seeking construction of a trust, an injunction, and an accounting. After a bench trial, the circuit court issued a judgment order granting the relief sought in the complaint. Defendants Helen McLoraine and Paul E Cook, trustees, and various charitable organizations appeal in case No. 81-2362.

Subsequently, trustees Helen McLoraine…