Category: Estate Planning Attorney

Key Estate Planning Documents Every Illinois Resident Should Have
estate planning
Posted October 21, 2024

Estate planning is something everyone should do, regardless of age or wealth. Illinois law outlines clearly what each resident should have in writing to protect their assets and preserve their wishes. While estate planning may be something one can be concerned with later in life, these important documents will save many headaches that your family […]

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Estate Planning Methods To Pass Property To Heirs Tax Free
estate planning
Posted July 29, 2024

As experienced Illinois estate planning attorneys, we often guide individuals through the intricacies of transferring their property to heirs in the most tax-efficient manner possible. Navigating both federal and Illinois state laws can seem daunting, but with the right strategies, you can pass on your legacy without a heavy tax burden overshadowing your heirs. Let’s […]

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The Importance of Reviewing Your Estate Plan Annually
estate plan
Posted July 22, 2024

Estate planning is a critical component of financial health, yet it is often overlooked once the initial documents are drafted. Many assume that once their estate plan is in place, no further action is required. However, regular reviews and updates are crucial to ensure that your estate plan remains aligned with your current circumstances and […]

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Estate Planning Tools To Use To Protect Your Assets
estate planning
Posted March 18, 2024

Estate planning is a critical process that involves preparing for the transfer of a person’s assets in the event of their death or incapacitation. Utilizing various estate planning tools can provide: Significant protection for one’s assets. Ensuring they are distributed according to the individual’s wishes while minimizing taxes. Legal fees. Potential disputes. In Illinois, as […]

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Steps To Take To Prevent A Contested Estate
contested estates
Posted February 06, 2024

Estate planning is a critical process that allows individuals to ensure their assets are distributed according to their wishes after their passing. However, even with a well-thought-out estate plan, disputes among heirs and beneficiaries can sometimes arise, leading to contested estates. In Illinois, as in other states, there are steps you can take to minimize […]

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Is There A Way To Avoid The Illinois Inheritance Tax?
inheritance tax
Posted January 04, 2024

Inheritance tax in Illinois, a state-level tax, is levied on certain inheritances received by beneficiaries. It’s distinct from other forms of taxation related to death, such as estate tax, and is calculated based on the value of inherited assets. Unlike some states, Illinois has retained its inheritance tax, making it an essential consideration for estate […]

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5 Reasons You Don’t Want A Contested Estate
contested estate
Posted December 19, 2023

You worked hard for what you have in life. When you pass on, you want your assets, money, and property to be given to your beneficiaries as you see fit. However, without effective estate planning, an estate can be contested. Thus, asset distribution might not go as you wanted, and there could be other problems. […]

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How Claiming A Lottery Win Without A Lawyer Can Cost You
lottery
Posted December 05, 2023

Did you win the Powerball or Mega Millions lottery? Will you buy a home, travel the globe, or buy a fleet of cars? You now have the financial freedom to do whatever you like! However, many lottery winners do not take the time to do estate planning after their financial windfall, which costs them. So, […]

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What Can Be Contested In A Will In Illinois?
contested estate
Posted October 09, 2023

It is impossible to please everyone in life and sometimes in death. When a loved one passes away who had a will, it is common for some beneficiaries to be disappointed about its provisions. Maybe someone thought they would get more from the estate or was left out of the will. While these feelings are […]

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Is There An Ironclad Way To Protect Estate From Being Contested?
contesting estate
Posted August 28, 2023

When you hear ‘estate planning,’ you may think that it is only for older Americans to pass their assets onto their families when they die. However, estate planning has many purposes: protecting families, saving on taxes, securing quality healthcare, and more. Learn about effective estate planning in this article, and if you have questions about […]

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