If you have a significant amount of property and assets, it is important to develop an estate plan that protects your family’s interests. The best way to do this is to create a valid will and a trust. Our Chicago attorneys can draft a will that is legally binding, which helps to ensure that your wishes are carried out. We can also help you to create a trust that avoids probate and can reduce taxes. We have the expertise and experience to handle all aspects of your estate planning needs.
Our firm is led by attorneys who have stellar pedigrees and careers full of accolades and recognition for their knowledge and ability to provide clients with the legal representation they deserve. We are also committed to providing excellent client service, and our team takes the time to get to know our clients and their needs.
We take the time to listen to our clients and help them put together an estate plan that addresses their needs. We can also help with issues that may arise after someone passes, including a dispute between beneficiaries or trustees, a contest of a will or trust, or allegations of wrongdoing by fiduciaries. Our lawyers can assist with resolving these controversies through negotiations or litigation as needed.
How to Find a Good Wills & Trusts Attorney
There are many different attorneys who can perform basic estate planning services. However, most of these will not have the specialized knowledge to prepare complex estate planning documents such as trusts and health directives. When it comes to your personal matters, it is essential that you work with a Chicago wills and trusts lawyer who has deep insight into Illinois law regarding these matters.
A will is a legal document that sets out how your assets and possessions should be distributed upon your death and also identifies a guardian for your children. A properly prepared will can also help to avoid a lengthy and expensive probate process. We can help you to determine which of these options is right for your situation and to make sure that your documents are carefully drafted to reflect your true desires.
We can also assist with other types of estate planning documents, such as a power of attorney for property that gives another person the power to manage your financial affairs in case you become incapacitated. We can also set up a special needs trust for an heir with disabilities to allow them to have their own personal money while still being eligible for government assistance.
Lastly, we can also create advance directives such as a health care proxy and living will that give your family guidance should you become incompetent to make your own decisions. These documents can help to minimize disputes and disagreements over medical treatment or end-of-life wishes. We are experienced in drafting these documents and can explain the legal implications of each option.