People should avail themselves of every possible opportunity to avoid the probate process because it can be tedious and time-consuming. Thankfully, Illinois does not require that every estate go through probate, as there is an exception for estates under a certain value. In Illinois, the requirement for an estate to be considered small is that it is valued at…
Every estate has people who are legally entitled to receive the assets. These are the beneficiaries. Ideally, they are set forth in the will or estate plan that details how the property is to be distributed. It is up to you to review your own situation to decide who will be the beneficiaries. There are few limitations on who…
In order for a will to be effective and enforceable, certain requirements must be satisfied. If these requirements are not met, one or more persons could contest the will’s validity. The knowledgeable and experienced Illinois probate lawyers at Charles T. Newland & Associates can assist you with drafting a proper will that is valid, legal, and enforceable. Please speak…
The primary purpose of drafting a will is to ensure that all of your property and other belongings pass on to the proper person(s) when you pass away. When it comes to drafting a proper will, it is important that you involve an experienced attorney in the process. This is because if a will is not drafted properly, one…
After your loved one passes away, the last thing you want to think about is a legal case. However, many estates in Illinois have to go through the probate process, and this is not something that you should ignore. Seek help from a Rolling Meadows probate attorney if you are facing a probate case. One question we regularly hear…
Probate can be a lengthy and complicated process, and it is natural to wonder whether there are any shortcuts you might take. In Illinois, there is a simplified probate for smaller estates that can save you and your family time and money. It is always worth having a probate lawyer in Illinois evaluate whether you qualify. Requirements for the…
Many people view estate planning as protecting their hard-earned property and assets, though the focus of estate planning is also largely on the protection of your close family members and other loved ones. If you pass away, they will be going through an emotionally difficult time, so it is important to take steps to make the legal process of…
If an adult becomes incapacitated and does not have a power of attorney in place for someone to take over their affairs, it can be necessary to initiate the guardianship process. However, this process can take time – especially if someone objects – and there might be the need for a guardian to be in place immediately. Discuss the…
If you have a loved one who is struggling to care for themselves, it can be a difficult situation. In addition, if they do not have a power of attorney in place, how can someone step in and take over their affairs? In Illinois, seeking guardianship might be the right option. What is Guardianship? There are two types of…
Descendants are – simply put – people who descend from you. These are some of the individuals who will inherit your estate under Illinois law if you pass away without a will. Similarly, if your parent or grandparent passes away without a will, you might inherit some of their property as a descendant. Like every state, Illinois has laws…
