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Introduction: The Importance of Family-Focused Estate Planning in Illinois

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we believe that understanding the fundamentals of estate planning empowers you to make informed decisions for your family’s future. In this second installment of our two-part series, Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., a trusted estate planning attorney in Chicago, addresses more essential questions about estate planning that can help you create peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

Wills vs. Trusts: Essential Knowledge from Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

Q: What is the difference between a will, living trust, and dying intestate? And what does that mean, practically speaking?

As an experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois, Rev. McLeod explains that these three scenarios represent vastly different outcomes for your estate and your family:

A Will is a legal document that directs how your property should be distributed after your death and names an executor to manage this process. As we explain in our client materials: “Your Last Will and Testament governs the disposition of any property held in your name at the time of your death. It also provides for the administration of that property, the payment of your debts, expenses of administration, and the appointment of a personal representative/executor, who carries out the administration of your estate.”

Practically speaking, having a will means:

• You decide who receives your assets
• You choose who will administer your estate
• You can name guardians for minor children
• Your estate will still go through probate court

A Living Trust (also called a revocable trust) is a legal arrangement where you transfer assets into a trust during your lifetime. Our estate planning literature explains: “A living trust is created during life (‘inter vivos’) when you (the ‘trustor,’ ‘grantor’ or ‘settlor’) sign a ‘living trust’ declaration or agreement which names one or more ‘trustees’ to manage the trust. You can name anyone, including yourself or an institution, to be a trustee or co-trustee.”

Practically speaking, having a living trust means:

• Assets in the trust avoid probate
• Your trust can manage assets if you become incapacitated
• You maintain control of trust assets during your lifetime
• Trust terms remain private, unlike a will which becomes public during probate
• The transition after death is typically smoother and faster for your family

Dying Intestate means passing away without a valid will or trust. In this case, state law determines who inherits your assets. Our materials note: “If you die without a will or trust, the state determines who will be your ultimate heirs. This distribution plan can be found within the laws of each state.”

Practically speaking, dying intestate means:

• Your assets are distributed according to Illinois state law, not your wishes
• A court-appointed administrator will manage your estate
• The court decides guardianship of minor children
• Your estate will go through probate, potentially causing delays and additional expenses
• Family conflict may arise due to unclear intentions

As we emphasize to our clients at McLeod Legal Advisors: “Dying intestate means surrendering control of your legacy to the state—a situation that rarely aligns with what most people would have wanted for their loved ones.” This is why consulting with a qualified Chicago estate planning attorney is so important.

Probate Avoidance Strategies from an Experienced Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Q: Is probate always required when someone dies?

No, probate is not always required. As any knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Illinois will explain, there are several ways assets can transfer without probate:

“Not all property changes hands at death through a will and the probate process: Insurance, individual retirement accounts, pension plans and other employee benefits may pass to living persons by virtue of beneficiary designations–not by will and probate. Likewise, property held in joint tenancy passes to the surviving joint tenant without the need for probate.”

Probate can be avoided through:

1. Revocable living trusts: Assets properly transferred to a trust during your lifetime pass to beneficiaries according to the trust terms without court involvement.
2. Joint ownership with right of survivorship: Property automatically passes to the surviving joint owner(s).
3. Beneficiary designations: Life insurance, retirement accounts, and transfer-on-death accounts pass directly to named beneficiaries.
4. Small estate procedures: Illinois offers simplified procedures for estates under certain value thresholds.
5. Illinois Land Trusts: As our materials note, “The Illinois Land Trust is a creation of common law, though now is governed by a number of Illinois statutes. While less common these days than it has been at times in the past, Illinois Land Trusts can be effective estate planning tools in certain situations.”

However, if you own assets solely in your name without beneficiary designations and haven’t established a trust, those assets will likely require probate. This is why comprehensive estate planning with a qualified Chicago estate planning attorney is so important—it allows you to determine which assets go through probate and which don’t, giving you control over the process your family will experience.

Overcoming Estate Planning Hesitations: How an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Can Help

Q: What if I’m uncomfortable talking about death and money?

This discomfort is natural and something we encounter frequently at McLeod Legal Advisors. Many people find discussing mortality and finances challenging, especially with family members. However, avoiding these conversations often leads to more significant problems later.

Here’s how we, as compassionate estate planning attorneys in Illinois, help clients overcome this discomfort:

1. Private, judgment-free environment: Our initial consultations provide a confidential space to express your concerns and wishes without pressure.
2. Focus on values, not just valuables: We frame estate planning discussions around your core values and the legacy you want to leave, not just the financial aspects.
3. Structured approach: Our systematic process breaks down complex topics into manageable decisions, making the conversation less overwhelming.
4. Professional mediation: If desired, Rev. McLeod can help facilitate family discussions in a constructive, controlled environment.
5. Recognition of the gift you’re giving: We help clients understand that estate planning is fundamentally an act of care for your loved ones—by addressing these matters now, you’re sparing them difficult decisions during a time of grief.

As our client Mrs. Patricia K. Owens discovered during her estate planning process with our Chicago estate planning attorney team, the relief of having these matters properly addressed far outweighs the temporary discomfort of the initial discussions. Many clients tell us they feel an enormous weight lifted once their plan is in place.

Simplifying Estate Settlement: Practical Advice from Your Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Q: How can you minimize the stress to your family by handling these matters in the simplest way possible?

Simplifying the estate process for your family requires thoughtful planning and clear communication. At McLeod Legal Advisors, as dedicated estate planning attorneys in Illinois, we recommend:

1. Consolidate your estate plan: Create a comprehensive plan that addresses all aspects rather than piecemeal solutions. As our materials explain, estate planning can include “revocable trust agreements, simple and complex wills, powers of attorney, advanced medical directives and living wills” together as part of a cohesive strategy.
2. Properly fund your trust: If you establish a living trust, ensure assets are correctly transferred into it. Our client letters carefully explain: “Any property that is transferred to the Trust(s) during your lifetime or upon your death will be disposed of in accordance with the terms of the Trust Agreement upon your death.”
3. Create clear advance directives: Our materials explain that advance directives “articulate how you want your medical decisions to be made in the future, if you are no longer able to make them for yourself.” This clarity prevents family members from having to make difficult medical decisions without guidance.
4. Organize important documents: Keep your estate planning documents, asset inventory, and instructions in a secure but accessible location known to your executor or trustee.
5. Communicate the basics: While you don’t need to share all details, ensure key family members know:
   • Who to contact (attorney, financial advisor)
   • Where important documents are located
   • Any immediate steps needed after your passing
6. Choose the right fiduciaries: Select trustees, executors, and agents who are not only trustworthy but also organized and level-headed under stress.
7. Review and update regularly: As our practice recommends, regularly review your plan with your Illinois estate planning attorney to ensure it remains current with your life circumstances and the law.

By implementing these strategies, you create what we call a “roadmap of care”—clear directions that guide your loved ones through a difficult time with minimal stress and confusion.

The McLeod Legal Advisors Approach: How Our Chicago Estate Planning Attorneys Create Peace of Mind

At McLeod Legal Advisors, led by Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., we understand that estate planning is more than legal documents—it’s about creating peace of mind for you and your family. Our approach as dedicated Chicago estate planning attorneys combines legal expertise with compassionate guidance:

1. Personalized planning: We take time to understand your unique family dynamics, assets, and values before recommending solutions. As demonstrated in our client letters, we provide detailed explanations of each document’s purpose and function.
2. Clear communication: We explain complex legal concepts in straightforward language, ensuring you understand all aspects of your estate plan.
3. Comprehensive solutions: Our estate planning practice includes “business succession planning, asset protection planning, tax planning relating to trusts and estate, representation of trustees and other fiduciaries,” and more—allowing us to address all your concerns under one roof.
4. Ongoing relationship: Estate planning is not a one-time event but an evolving process. We build lasting relationships with our clients, providing updates and revisions as life changes occur.
5. Family-centered approach: As both an attorney and ordained clergyman, Rev. McLeod brings a unique perspective that honors the spiritual and emotional aspects of legacy planning alongside the legal requirements—a distinction that sets him apart from other estate planning attorneys in Illinois.

Contact Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Today

We invite you to experience the difference our thoughtful approach can make for your family’s future. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted estate planning attorney in Chicago, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodesq.com to schedule a consultation. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

As McLeod Legal Advisors often reminds clients, “The greatest gift you can give your family isn’t just what you leave behind, but the clarity and care with which you leave it.” Let an experienced Illinois estate planning attorney help you create this lasting gift.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois.

Introduction: Why Asset Management Matters in Estate Planning

At McLeod Legal Advisors, led by Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., a trusted estate planning attorney in Chicago, we understand that estate planning can seem overwhelming. Our clients frequently ask questions about how to properly manage and designate their assets to ensure their wishes are honored and their loved ones protected. In this first installment of our two-part series, we address the most common questions about handling assets in your estate plan that every Illinois estate planning attorney regularly encounters.

Joint Ownership vs. Transfer-on-Death: What Your Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois Wants You to Know

Q: What’s the difference between joint ownership and transfer-on-death designation?

As an experienced Chicago estate planning attorney, Rev. McLeod explains that joint ownership (often called “joint tenancy with right of survivorship”) means that two or more people own property together. When one owner dies, the property automatically passes to the surviving owner(s) without going through probate. This is commonly used between spouses for real estate, bank accounts, and investments.

Transfer-on-death (TOD) or payable-on-death (POD) designations allow you to name a beneficiary who will receive the asset upon your death, also avoiding probate. Unlike joint ownership, TOD/POD beneficiaries have no rights to the asset while you’re alive—they only receive the asset after your death.

The key differences that any knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Illinois will highlight include:

• Control: With joint ownership, all owners have equal rights to the property immediately. With TOD/POD, the beneficiary has no rights until after your death.
• Creditor exposure: Joint owners’ creditors may potentially reach jointly-owned assets. TOD/POD assets are not exposed to beneficiaries’ creditors during your lifetime.
• Flexibility: TOD/POD designations can be changed anytime without the beneficiary’s consent, whereas removing a joint owner typically requires their agreement.

As we explain in our estate planning materials: “Property held in joint tenancy passes to the surviving joint tenant without the need for probate. Likewise, insurance, individual retirement accounts, pension plans and other employee benefits may pass to living persons by virtue of beneficiary designations—not by will and probate.”

Beyond Beneficiary Designations: Why Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Recommends Trusts

Q: If I hold my property jointly, or use a TOD or POD, do I need to have a Trust?

While joint ownership and TOD/POD designations can help avoid probate, they are not comprehensive estate planning solutions. As a dedicated estate planning attorney in Chicago, Rev. McLeod advises that a trust offers several advantages that these methods don’t provide:

• Incapacity planning: As our practice literature explains, “A living trust also protects against nonmanagement or mismanagement of assets during physical or mental incapacity. If you become incompetent, a successor trustee can take over management of the trust without a court proceeding and without interruption.”
• Conditions and control: Trusts allow you to specify conditions on inheritances and extend control over assets beyond your lifetime, which TOD/POD designations cannot do.
• Privacy: “Probate records are open to the public; a living trust is not,” as our materials note. TOD/POD designations may become public in certain circumstances.
• Comprehensive asset management: A trust can hold and manage virtually all types of assets under a unified plan, whereas TOD/POD and joint ownership must be set up separately for each account or asset.
• Protection against unintended consequences: Proper trust planning can prevent accidental disinheritance in blended families and provide for minor children, which simple beneficiary designations often fail to address.

At McLeod Legal Advisors, our approach as an Illinois estate planning attorney firm is to recommend a combined approach using appropriate beneficiary designations within a comprehensive trust-based plan.

Retirement Accounts and Life Insurance: Important Considerations from an Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois

Q: What happens to retirement accounts and life insurance policies after death?

Any experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois will tell you that retirement accounts (like 401(k)s and IRAs) and life insurance policies pass directly to the named beneficiaries upon the owner’s death, outside of probate. This is why proper beneficiary designations are crucial.

For retirement accounts:

• The named beneficiary can typically choose between taking a lump sum or structured distributions
• Spouses have special rollover rights that non-spouse beneficiaries don’t have
• Distribution rules and tax implications vary depending on the type of account and the beneficiary’s relationship to the deceased

For life insurance:

• Proceeds typically pass tax-free to beneficiaries
• The insurance company pays the designated beneficiary directly upon receiving the death certificate and claim forms
• If no beneficiary is named or all named beneficiaries have predeceased the insured, proceeds may be paid to the estate and subject to probate

As we note in our practice materials, these assets “may pass to living persons by virtue of beneficiary designations—not by will and probate.” However, it’s critical that these designations coordinate with your overall estate plan to avoid unintended consequences. This is why consulting with a knowledgeable Chicago estate planning attorney is essential.

Asset Inventory: A Critical Tool Every Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Recommends

Q: Do I need an inventory of my assets?

Absolutely. A comprehensive asset inventory is essential for effective estate planning and administration. Without one:

• Your executor or successor trustee might miss valuable assets
• Your family may struggle to locate accounts, insurance policies, or digital assets
• Important property might end up in probate unnecessarily
• Your estate administration could be delayed and more expensive

At McLeod Legal Advisors, as thorough estate planning attorneys in Chicago, we guide clients through creating detailed asset inventories as part of our estate planning process. This includes helping you:

• Document financial accounts, real estate, business interests, and personal property
• Record digital assets, including online accounts
• Note how each asset is titled and any beneficiary designations
• Update the inventory when significant changes occur

As our client Mrs. Patricia K. Owens recently experienced, our thorough estate planning process ensures all your assets are properly accounted for and integrated into your estate plan—a service any reputable Illinois estate planning attorney should provide.

Maintaining Your Estate Plan: When to Consult Your Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Q: How often should I review my asset inventory and account designations?

As a diligent estate planning attorney in Illinois, Rev. McLeod recommends reviewing your asset inventory and beneficiary designations:

• Annually: A quick check to ensure your inventory remains current
• After major life events: Marriage, divorce, births, deaths, relocations
• Following significant asset changes: Purchasing or selling real estate, receiving an inheritance, changing jobs (and retirement plans)
• When tax laws change: New legislation may require adjustments to your estate planning strategy

This regular review process helps ensure that all your assets are properly aligned with your estate plan and that beneficiary designations remain current with your wishes. Your Chicago estate planning attorney should be available to assist with these reviews.

Organizing Estate Planning Documents: Best Practices from an Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Q: What’s the best way to organize and store my asset information?

Effective organization of your asset information is crucial for your peace of mind and your family’s security. As experienced estate planning attorneys in Illinois, we recommend:

1. Create a master document: Compile a comprehensive list of all assets, account numbers, institutions, online login information, and the location of important documents. Include contact information for financial advisors, attorneys, and accountants.
2. Secure digital storage: Consider a password-protected digital file or secure online vault for electronic copies of important documents and your asset inventory.
3. Physical storage: Keep original documents (wills, trusts, deeds, etc.) in a fireproof safe or safety deposit box. Ensure your executor or trustee knows the location and has appropriate access.
4. Sharing information: Inform trusted family members or your executor about where to find your asset information in an emergency, without necessarily sharing all details during your lifetime.
5. Regular updates: Set calendar reminders to review and update your asset information at least annually.

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we provide our clients with specialized asset inventory tools and secure storage recommendations tailored to their specific situations—a service that sets us apart as dedicated Chicago estate planning attorneys.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services from Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

At McLeod Legal Advisors, our estate planning practice goes beyond simply drafting documents. We partner with you to create a comprehensive estate plan that addresses all aspects of your asset management and distribution. Our process as committed estate planning attorneys in Illinois includes:

1. Thorough asset review: We help you identify all assets and how they should be handled in your estate plan.
2. Strategic beneficiary designation planning: We ensure your account designations align with your overall estate planning goals.
3. Customized trust solutions: As our literature explains, “Estate planning can be accomplished through a variety of methods, including revocable trust agreements, simple and complex wills, powers of attorney, advanced medical directives and living wills, insurance trusts, marital planning, charitable trusts & other charitable arrangements.”
4. Ongoing support: We help you maintain and update your plan as your life and assets change.
5. Family communication assistance: We can facilitate conversations with your loved ones about your estate plan when appropriate.

As McLeod Legal Advisors emphasizes to all clients, proper asset management within your estate plan isn’t just about avoiding probate—it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected. This is the mission of every dedicated estate planning attorney in Chicago.

Contact Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don’t leave your family’s future to chance. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted Illinois estate planning attorney firm, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule a consultation. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois.

Why Every Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Recommends Understanding Powers of Attorney

Most Illinois residents have heard of a power of attorney, but few truly understand its capabilities and limitations. This vital legal document is often misunderstood, leaving families unprepared when crisis strikes. At McLeod Legal Advisors, Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., a respected estate planning attorney in Chicago, guides clients through the complexities of powers of attorney as part of a comprehensive estate plan that truly protects what matters most.

What is a Power of Attorney? An Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Explains

As any experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois will tell you, a power of attorney (POA) is a legal document that authorizes someone (your “agent” or “attorney-in-fact”) to make decisions and take actions on your behalf. As our estate planning materials explain: “A power of attorney is a document authorizing someone else (your agent) to act on your behalf (the principal).”

This powerful document can:

• Grant authority to manage your financial affairs
• Allow access to your accounts and property
• Authorize someone to make healthcare decisions for you
• Enable business operations to continue if you’re incapacitated
• Prevent the need for court intervention through guardianship proceedings

The scope of authority granted through a power of attorney can be extensive. As we explain to our clients: “A general power of attorney authorizes your agent to do almost everything on your behalf which you could do for yourself.”

However, many people don’t realize that a power of attorney is not universal—there are several distinct types, each serving different purposes and containing different limitations that any comprehensive Chicago estate planning attorney will help you navigate.

Types of Powers of Attorney Every Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Should Discuss

Understanding the differences between power of attorney types is crucial for Illinois residents creating an estate plan. Each type serves a specific purpose, and choosing the wrong one can leave you and your family vulnerable.

General Power of Attorney

A general power of attorney grants broad authority to your agent to act on your behalf in virtually all matters, including:

• Financial transactions and banking
• Real estate purchases, sales, and management
• Business operations
• Tax matters
• Asset management
• Contract negotiations and signings

This comprehensive authority makes a general power of attorney extremely powerful—and potentially dangerous if granted to the wrong person. As our client materials note: “A general power of attorney authorizes your agent to do almost everything on your behalf which you could do for yourself.”

Key consideration for Illinois residents: A standard general power of attorney terminates if you become incapacitated—precisely when many people would need it most. This is why a durable provision (discussed below) is crucial, and why consulting with an estate planning attorney in Chicago is essential.

Springing Power of Attorney

Unlike a standard power of attorney that takes effect immediately upon signing, a springing power of attorney “springs” into effect only when a specific event occurs—typically when you become incapacitated.

Benefits of a springing power of attorney include:

• Protection of your authority while you remain capable
• Peace of mind knowing someone can step in if needed
• Avoiding the need for court intervention through guardianship

However, springing powers present unique challenges:

• They require clear definition of the triggering event
• Medical verification of incapacity may cause delays
• Financial institutions may be reluctant to accept older springing POAs

As we explain to our Chicago clients: “Your Statutory Durable Power of Attorney is effective [immediately upon execution/upon your disability or incapacity, as certified by a physician].” This language highlights the option of a springing provision that your Illinois estate planning attorney can customize to your needs.

Durable Power of Attorney

The durability provision is perhaps the most critical aspect of a power of attorney for Illinois residents. A durable power of attorney remains effective even if you become incapacitated—unlike a standard POA that terminates upon incapacity.

As our estate planning materials emphasize: “As a ‘Durable’ Power of Attorney, the powers granted to your attorney-in-fact remain in effect in the event that you become disabled or incapacitated.”

This durability provision can be added to either a general or limited power of attorney. Without this provision, the POA becomes useless when it’s often needed most—during incapacity.

For Illinois residents concerned about long-term planning, any reputable estate planning attorney in Illinois will strongly recommend including a durability provision in your power of attorney documents.

Limited Power of Attorney

A limited (or special) power of attorney grants your agent authority only for specific tasks or for a defined period. Our client materials explain: “A limited or special power of attorney authorizes your agent to perform only certain acts specifically listed in the document.”

Common uses for limited powers of attorney include:

• Real estate transactions for a specific property
• Vehicle sales or registration
• Management of specific investments
• Handling business matters during your absence
• Banking transactions at a particular institution

Limited powers of attorney are useful when you need someone to handle specific matters but don’t wish to grant broad authority over all your affairs. Your Chicago estate planning attorney can help determine if this option is right for your situation.

Healthcare Power of Attorney

A healthcare power of attorney (sometimes called a medical power of attorney) specifically addresses your medical care and treatment. In Illinois, this document is part of what we call “advance directives.”

As our estate planning literature explains: “Advance directives are written statements that articulate how you want your medical decisions to be made in the future, if you are no longer able to make them for yourself.”

The healthcare power of attorney:

• Names your healthcare agent
• Outlines your treatment preferences
• Provides guidance on end-of-life care
• May include organ donation wishes
• Works alongside a living will

Our materials further clarify: “The health care power of attorney lets one choose someone to make health care decisions for you in the future, if you are no longer able to make these decisions for yourself.”

For Illinois families, having a comprehensive healthcare power of attorney is essential to ensure your medical wishes are honored and to provide guidance to your loved ones during difficult times—a priority for any thorough estate planning attorney in Chicago.

What No One Told You About a Power of Attorney: It Ends With Death

Here’s the crucial fact that many Illinois residents don’t realize until it’s too late: all powers of attorney terminate immediately upon the principal’s death. This limitation is absolute, regardless of the type of power of attorney or how it’s drafted.

This means:

• Your agent’s authority ceases the moment you pass away
• Your agent cannot access accounts to pay for funeral expenses
• Property cannot be transferred by your agent after your death
• Your agent cannot make final arrangements unless authorized by other documents

As Rev. McLeod explains to clients: “A power of attorney is for life management, not death management. After death, your executor or trustee takes over—not your power of attorney agent.”

This critical limitation creates a significant gap in many people’s estate plans. While a power of attorney provides excellent protection during life, it provides no authority whatsoever after death—a fact that any knowledgeable Illinois estate planning attorney will emphasize.

The Dangerous Planning Gap: Why You Need an Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois

This limitation creates what we call “the dangerous planning gap”—a period where:

1. Your power of attorney has terminated due to death
2. Your executor has not yet been formally appointed by the probate court
3. Your trustee (if you have a trust) may not yet have legal access to all accounts
4. Bills need to be paid and arrangements need to be made

During this gap, families often discover they have no legal authority to:

• Access accounts to pay for funeral expenses
• Maintain mortgage payments or utility bills
• Cancel subscriptions or ongoing services
• Make final arrangements
• Pay medical bills from final illness

For Illinois families, this gap can create significant stress during an already difficult time and may result in financial complications that could have been avoided with proper planning from an experienced estate planning attorney in Chicago.

The Good News: Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Has Solutions

While the limitations of powers of attorney are significant, the good news is that comprehensive estate planning can address these issues. At McLeod Legal Advisors, we create integrated plans that provide seamless protection both during life and after death.

The Comprehensive Solution: Coordinated Estate Planning with an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

A properly designed estate plan coordinates multiple legal tools to provide continuous protection:

1. Powers of Attorney for Life Management

During your lifetime, well-drafted powers of attorney provide protection if you become incapacitated:

• A durable financial power of attorney allows management of assets
• A healthcare power of attorney ensures medical decisions follow your wishes
• Appropriate limitations protect your interests

2. Revocable Living Trust for Seamless Transition

A revocable living trust bridges the gap between life and death:

• Assets in the trust are managed by your trustee according to your instructions
• No court appointment is needed for your successor trustee to act
• Trust continues to operate regardless of your capacity or death

As our estate planning materials explain: “A living trust provides for the continuing management of property upon the death or disability of the trustor and generally allows property to be more quickly distributed upon the trustor’s death. This is because a successor trustee can act almost immediately without the necessity of notice or court approval.”

3. Will for Complete Coverage

A will ensures all bases are covered:

• Names an executor to manage probate assets
• “Pours over” any remaining assets into your trust
• Addresses guardianship for minor children

Our client materials note: “A simple will is also needed to ‘pour over’ to the trust any property which is not transferred to the trust during life.”

4. Advance Directives for Medical Wishes

Comprehensive advance directives ensure your healthcare wishes are known:

• Living will specifies end-of-life treatment preferences
• Healthcare power of attorney names your decision-maker
• DNR orders can be included if desired

This coordinated approach eliminates the gaps that exist when relying solely on powers of attorney—a comprehensive strategy that any qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois should recommend.

Benefits of Comprehensive Planning with a Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

This integrated approach provides significant benefits for Illinois families:

• Continuous protection: No gaps in authority during incapacity or after death
• Probate avoidance: Assets in trust avoid the public and potentially lengthy probate process
• Privacy preservation: Trust administration remains private, unlike probate
• Immediate access to funds: Successor trustee can access trust assets immediately for final expenses
• Reduced family stress: Clear authority and instructions minimize family conflict
• Tax planning opportunities: Trusts offer significant tax advantages in certain situations

How McLeod Legal Advisors: Your Dedicated Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago Helps You Preserve What Matters

At McLeod Legal Advisors, led by Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., we take a uniquely comprehensive approach to powers of attorney and estate planning for Illinois residents. Our process ensures that your plan truly protects what matters most.

Our Personalized Planning Process: The McLeod Legal Advisors Approach to Estate Planning in Illinois

Our estate planning process reflects Rev. McLeod’s commitment to client-centered service:

1. Discovery and Assessment

We begin with a thorough understanding of your situation:

• Comprehensive review of assets and liabilities
• Discussion of family relationships and dynamics
• Exploration of potential incapacity concerns
• Clarification of your goals and values

2. Strategic Planning

Based on your unique situation, we develop a coordinated strategy:

• Selection of appropriate power of attorney types
• Customization of agent authority provisions
• Integration with trust planning if appropriate
• Coordination with other estate planning documents

3. Clear Documentation

We create clear, legally sound documents:

• Illinois-specific statutory forms when appropriate
• Customized provisions addressing your unique concerns
• Clear agent instructions and limitations
• Backup provisions for agent unavailability

As our client materials explain: “Please review your documents thoroughly, taking note of the spelling of names in the documents so that any typographical errors can be corrected prior to the signing ceremony.”

4. Proper Execution

We ensure all documents are properly executed:

• Supervised signing ceremony
• Appropriate witnesses and notarization
• Guidance on storage and access
• Instructions for providing copies to agents

5. Implementation Support

Our service extends beyond document creation:

• Assistance with financial institution recognition
• Guidance for discussing your plan with family members
• Instructions for agents on their responsibilities
• Resources for healthcare facilities and providers

6. Ongoing Review

We maintain relationships with our clients for ongoing support:

• Regular review recommendations
• Updates for legal or life changes
• Assistance with agent transitions if needed
• Lifetime support for questions and concerns

The McLeod Legal Advisors Difference: Not Just Any Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois

Rev. Aaron J. McLeod brings a unique perspective to power of attorney planning:

• Legal expertise: As a licensed attorney in Illinois with extensive estate planning experience
• Spiritual understanding: As an ordained clergyman with standing in the Baptist church and United Church of Christ
• Community connection: As an active member of Chicago’s community organizations
• Educational background: With training from Harvard Divinity School, University of Iowa College of Law, and Morehouse College

This multifaceted background allows Rev. McLeod to address not just the legal aspects of powers of attorney, but the family dynamics and values that inform your choices—setting him apart from other Chicago estate planning attorneys.

As his client communications reflect: “I look forward to assisting you through the remainder of the estate planning process.”

Contact Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don’t leave your family unprotected due to misconceptions about powers of attorney. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted estate planning attorney in Chicago, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule a consultation about comprehensive power of attorney planning. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois.

Introduction: Why Estate Planning Matters for Illinois Families

At McLeod Legal Advisors, led by Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., a respected Chicago estate planning attorney, we’ve heard every reason why people delay creating an estate plan. While procrastination is human nature, when it comes to protecting your family’s future, waiting can have serious consequences. Today, we’re debunking the most common estate planning myths that could leave your loved ones vulnerable—myths that any experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois encounters regularly.

Myth 1: “I don’t have enough assets to need an estate plan.”

This might be the most dangerous misconception we encounter as estate planning attorneys in Chicago. Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for everyone who cares about what happens to their possessions, their dependents, and even themselves if they become incapacitated.

The reality: Even modest assets like your home, retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and personal possessions add up quickly. Without proper planning, these assets could be:

• Tied up in probate court for months or even years
• Subject to higher taxes than necessary
• Distributed according to state law rather than your wishes
• Difficult for your loved ones to access when they need funds most

As our estate planning materials explain: “If you die without a will or trust (intestate), the transfer of your property is accomplished through a court supervised proceeding called probate that can take months and sometimes years. Probate is also the process by which creditors of a decedent file claims to collect their debts and where interested parties who have a complaint regarding the deceased can file a complaint (a will contest).”

Beyond assets, an estate plan includes crucial documents like power of attorney and healthcare directives that determine who makes decisions for you if you’re unable to do so yourself. These protections are invaluable regardless of your net worth, which is why consulting with an Illinois estate planning attorney is essential for everyone.

Myth 2: “My spouse and I trust each other completely.”

While trust in your marriage is beautiful, it’s not a substitute for proper legal protection. Many couples assume that everything will automatically transfer to their spouse, or that their spouse will know exactly what to do if something happens, but any knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Chicago will tell you this isn’t the case.

The reality: Without proper documentation:

• Assets might not automatically transfer to your spouse, particularly with complex family situations
• Your spouse could face legal hurdles accessing accounts or making healthcare decisions
• If both of you pass away simultaneously, there’s no direction for asset distribution
• If you later become incapacitated, your spouse might need to pursue guardianship through court

Our practice as Illinois estate planning attorneys emphasizes that: “A living trust provides for the continuing management of property upon the death or disability of the trustor and generally allows property to be more quickly distributed upon the trustor’s death. This is because a successor trustee can act almost immediately without the necessity of notice or court approval. With a probate estate, several weeks may pass before court appointment of an executor who is authorized to deal with income and expenses of the estate.”

Even in the strongest marriages, an estate plan provides the legal framework that allows your spouse to effectively carry out your wishes and protects them from unnecessary legal complications during an already difficult time—protection that any experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois can help provide.

Myth 3: “Estate planning is too expensive.”

Many people put off estate planning believing it’s an extravagant expense they can’t afford right now. As Chicago estate planning attorneys, we hear this concern frequently.

The reality: Not having an estate plan is almost always more expensive than creating one. Consider:

• Probate costs without a will can consume a significant percentage of your estate’s value
• Estate taxes may be higher without strategic planning
• Family disputes over unclear intentions often lead to costly litigation
• Your family may face financial hardship while assets are frozen in probate

As we explain to our clients seeking estate planning attorneys in Chicago: “A living trust to avoid probate usually reduces attorneys’ fees, although it is impossible to estimate accurately the savings to your heirs. However, even if all of your assets have been placed in a living trust and probate is completely avoided, an attorney and an accountant are usually required to assist with distribution of the trust assets upon death and to prepare death tax returns.”

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we offer estate planning options for various budgets. The modest investment in creating an estate plan today with a qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois saves your family significant money, time, and stress later.

Myth 4: “I don’t need to worry about who would raise my kids.”

Parents of minor children sometimes believe naming guardians isn’t urgent or that family members would naturally step in. This is a misconception that any experienced Chicago estate planning attorney will quickly dispel.

The reality: This might be the most critical element of estate planning for parents. Without formal guardian designations:

• A court decides who raises your children, potentially choosing someone you wouldn’t have selected
• Family members may disagree about who should take custody, leading to painful disputes
• Your children could temporarily enter the foster care system while guardianship is determined
• Your children’s inheritance might be managed by someone you wouldn’t have chosen

Naming guardians gives you peace of mind that your children will be raised according to your values and by people you trust. It also provides financial instructions for supporting your children’s needs and future dreams. This is an essential conversation to have with your Illinois estate planning attorney.

Comprehensive Estate Planning Services from Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

At McLeod Legal Advisors, our comprehensive estate planning practice as dedicated estate planning attorneys in Illinois includes:

• Revocable trust agreements
• Simple and complex wills
• Powers of attorney
• Advanced medical directives and living wills
• Marital planning
• Charitable trusts & other charitable arrangements
• Business succession planning
• Asset protection planning
• Tax planning relating to trusts and estates

The consequences of believing these myths can be devastating for families. We’ve seen the difference proper estate planning makes during life’s most challenging moments. This is why consulting with an experienced Chicago estate planning attorney is so important.

The McLeod Legal Advisors Difference: Estate Planning in Illinois with Compassion

Your estate plan is a gift to your loved ones—one that provides clarity, reduces administrative burdens, minimizes taxes, and ensures your wishes are honored. As Rev. McLeod, a respected estate planning attorney in Chicago, often explains, it’s an expression of your care that continues even when you’re no longer here to provide it personally.

What sets McLeod Legal Advisors apart from other Illinois estate planning attorneys is our commitment to understanding your unique family dynamics and values. We don’t just create legal documents—we help you craft a legacy that reflects what matters most to you.

Contact Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don’t wait for “someday” to protect what matters most. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted estate planning attorney in Chicago, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule your estate planning consultation. Our compassionate team at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598 will guide you through creating a plan tailored to your family’s unique needs.

When you work with an experienced Illinois estate planning attorney like Rev. McLeod, you gain both legal protection and peace of mind knowing your wishes will be honored and your loved ones will be cared for according to your intentions.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois.

A Cautionary Tale That Every Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Has Seen

Imagine this: You’re in your twenties, just starting your career. You fill out a form at work, naming your live-in significant other as the beneficiary of your retirement account. You start contributing to your retirement account, and it begins to grow. Fast forward 28 years – you’ve long since ended that relationship, lived a full life, and then died. But you never changed that beneficiary designation, and now that ex-partner is entitled to your million-dollar retirement nest egg while your family is left with nothing.

Sound far-fetched? It’s not. This is precisely what happened in a high-profile lawsuit involving Margaret Losinger and her former boyfriend, Jeffrey Rolison, and his estate and Proctor and Gamble, the Company he worked for during those 28 years.

Here’s a closer look at this shocking real-life story, the lessons we can learn, and how having a trusted Chicago estate planning attorney at every stage of life can protect you from making a million-dollar mistake like this or any other mistakes that you just might be overlooking.

The Million-Dollar Mistake That Any Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois Could Have Prevented

In the 1980s, Jeffrey Rolison dated Margaret Sjostedt, and the two lived together. Rolison worked at a Procter & Gamble (P&G) plant, where he signed up for a profit-sharing and savings plan. In 1987, he listed Sjostedt as the sole beneficiary of his retirement account. The relationship ended two years later, and both moved on. Sjostedt eventually married, taking on the last name Losinger.

Rolison, however, never updated his beneficiary designation on his retirement plan. In 2015, Rolison passed away at age 59, single and childless, with no will and no guidance on who should inherit his assets. His retirement account, which had grown to $1.15 million, was still designated to Losinger, nee Sjostedt.

Rolison’s brothers, Brian and Richard, were shocked when they learned that Losinger was the beneficiary of Rolison’s retirement account. They believed their brother wouldn’t have intended for his long-ago ex-girlfriend to receive his retirement savings. The brothers filed a lawsuit against P&G and Losinger in 2017, trying to get the money directed to Rolison’s estate.

On April 29, 2024, an appeals court issued an order, ruling that Losinger was entitled to the money. After fighting for four years, Rolison’s family lost their claim, the million dollars in Rolison’s retirement account, and all the legal fees and court costs invested in the fight. Because we have no doubt you wouldn’t want this to happen to your family, read on…

Why Even “Simple Estates” Require a Trusted Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Many Illinois residents mistakenly believe that estate planning is only necessary for the wealthy or those with complex financial situations. The Rolison case dramatically illustrates why this thinking is dangerously flawed, and why consulting with an estate planning attorney in Illinois is essential for everyone.

No Estate Is Too Simple for Professional Planning

Even if you consider your estate “simple,” several critical elements require professional guidance from an experienced Chicago estate planning attorney:

1. Beneficiary designations that override your will: As our estate planning materials explain, “Not all property changes hands at death through a will and the probate process: Insurance, individual retirement accounts, pension plans and other employee benefits may pass to living persons by virtue of beneficiary designations–not by will and probate.”
2. State-specific laws: Illinois has specific laws governing inheritances and probate that may not align with your assumptions.
3. Changing family dynamics: Marriages, divorces, births, deaths, and estrangements all impact who should receive your assets.
4. Asset growth over time: As the Rolison case shows, modest initial investments can grow substantially over decades.

At McLeod Legal Advisors in Chicago, we’ve seen numerous cases where seemingly “simple” estates became complex nightmares for families due to outdated beneficiary designations, inadequate planning, or missing documentation. This is why working with a knowledgeable Illinois estate planning attorney is crucial regardless of your estate size.

What Estate Planning Is: Freedom and Protection That Your Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois Provides

Most importantly, estate planning is about your choices and your freedom.

True estate planning goes far beyond simply drafting a will. It’s a comprehensive process that ensures:

1. Your wishes are honored: Your assets go to the people you choose, not those determined by outdated designations or state law.
2. Your family is protected: Proper planning prevents costly legal battles and preserves family harmony during an already difficult time.
3. Your legacy is preserved: Your values, intentions, and hopes for your loved ones are clearly expressed and legally protected.

As our Illinois estate planning materials emphasize: “Estate planning is the preservation and the distribution of your assets, both during your life and upon your death. It is accomplishing your personal and family goals and easing the management of your financial and legal affairs.”

This definition highlights that estate planning isn’t just about death—it’s about ensuring your wishes are honored throughout your life and beyond. This is the comprehensive service that a dedicated Chicago estate planning attorney provides.

How Beneficiary-Designated Accounts Factor Into Your Estate Plan: Expert Guidance from an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

One of the most dangerous misconceptions in estate planning is that having a will is sufficient. The Rolison case dramatically illustrates why this thinking fails, and why you need an estate planning attorney in Chicago to address all aspects of your estate.

Beneficiary-Designated Accounts Bypass Your Will: A Critical Warning from Estate Planning Attorneys in Illinois

Beneficiary-designated accounts – like retirement accounts or life insurance – are part of your estate plan, but they operate under different rules than will-governed assets:

They supersede your will: No matter what your will says, beneficiary designations take precedence. In the Rolison case, even if he had a will leaving everything to his brothers, his 401(k) would still go to his ex-girlfriend because of the

In our estate planning practice at McLeod Legal Advisors, we’ve witnessed countless families face unexpected complications due to overlooked beneficiary designations. While many Illinois residents believe they’ve adequately prepared for their family’s future, they often miss a critical component: properly structured beneficiary designations on their financial accounts, retirement plans, and insurance policies. Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq. shares essential insights on avoiding these potentially devastating pitfalls.

The Dangers of Naming Minor Children As Your Beneficiaries

One of the most common and problematic mistakes we encounter is parents naming minor children as direct beneficiaries of life insurance policies, retirement accounts, or investment accounts. While the intention is admirable—ensuring your children are provided for—the execution creates significant problems.

The Court-Appointed Guardian Problem

When a minor inherits assets directly, the court must appoint a guardian to manage those assets until the child reaches adulthood (age 18 in Illinois). This creates several serious complications:

• Court intervention becomes mandatory: A guardianship proceeding must be initiated, requiring attorney fees, court costs, and ongoing court supervision.
• Limited control over who manages the money: The court-appointed guardian might not be the person you would have chosen to manage your children’s inheritance.
• Annual accountings are required: The guardian must provide detailed financial reports to the court annually, creating ongoing administrative burdens and expenses.

As our estate planning materials explain: “If you later become incapacitated, your spouse might need to pursue guardianship through court,” and the same applies to minor children inheriting assets.

The “18-Year-Old Millionaire” Problem

Perhaps even more concerning is what happens when your child reaches age 18:

• Complete control at a vulnerable age: At 18, your child gains unrestricted access to potentially substantial assets, often before developing financial maturity.
• No protection from poor decisions: Without proper structures in place, your hard-earned assets could be quickly depleted through impulsive spending, unwise investments, or manipulation by others.
• No protection from creditors or divorce: Assets received directly by your child lack protection from future creditors, lawsuits, or divorce proceedings.

The better solution: Our practice recommends establishing a testamentary trust or revocable living trust with age-appropriate distribution provisions. This allows you to specify at what ages your children receive portions of their inheritance and appoint a trusted person to manage these assets according to your specific instructions.

When a Beneficiary Dies Before You

Another frequently overlooked scenario occurs when a named beneficiary predeceases you, creating a cascade of unintended consequences.

The Default Plan Problem

When a primary beneficiary dies before you and you haven’t updated your designations or established contingent beneficiaries, several problematic outcomes can occur:

• Assets may revert to your estate: Rather than passing directly to alternative beneficiaries, assets may be forced through probate, creating delays, expenses, and public proceedings.
• State law determines distribution: Without clear direction, intestacy laws determine who receives the assets, which might not align with your wishes.
• Potential tax consequences: Improper planning may trigger unnecessary estate taxes or income taxes for your heirs.

Our estate planning literature notes: “If you die without a will or trust, the state determines who will be your ultimate heirs. This distribution plan can be found within the laws of each state.” The same principle applies when beneficiary designations fail.

The Outdated Beneficiary Problem

Life changes such as divorce, remarriage, births, and deaths often render existing beneficiary designations obsolete:

• Ex-spouses may inherit: In some cases, despite divorce, an ex-spouse might still receive assets if designations weren’t properly updated.
• New family members may be excluded: Children from new marriages or relationships might be inadvertently disinherited if designations aren’t revised.
• Unintended disinheritance: If your primary beneficiary dies and you don’t update your designations, their children (your grandchildren) might be unintentionally excluded.

The better solution: Implement a regular beneficiary designation review process and establish “per stirpes” designations where appropriate, ensuring assets flow to the next generation if a beneficiary predeceases you. Additionally, coordinate all beneficiary designations with your comprehensive estate plan to ensure consistency across all assets.

The Risks of “Set-It-and-Forget-It” Planning

Perhaps the most pervasive problem we encounter is what we call “set-it-and-forget-it” planning—the practice of establishing beneficiary designations once and never revisiting them as life circumstances change.

The Coordination Problem

Beneficiary designations that don’t align with your will or trust create serious conflicts:

• Bypassing your carefully crafted estate plan: Regardless of what your will or trust says, beneficiary designations override these documents for the specific assets they control.
• Uneven distribution among heirs: Without coordination, some heirs may receive substantially more or less than you intended.
• Conflicting instructions: Different beneficiary designations across multiple accounts can lead to confusion and potential family conflict.

Our practice materials emphasize: “Not all property changes hands at death through a will and the probate process: Insurance, individual retirement accounts, pension plans and other employee benefits may pass to living persons by virtue of beneficiary designations–not by will and probate.”

The Law Change Problem

Tax laws and regulations governing retirement accounts and inherited assets change regularly:

• Lost tax advantages: Outdated designations may forfeit valuable income tax benefits, particularly for inherited IRAs and retirement plans.
• Missed planning opportunities: New legal strategies and structures may offer better protection or tax advantages than were available when you originally established your designations.
• Unintended consequences: Changes in estate tax thresholds and regulations can dramatically alter the impact of your existing plan.

The better solution: Establish a routine (at least biennial) review of all beneficiary designations with a qualified estate planning attorney who understands both state-specific concerns and federal tax implications. As our client materials note: “After you have had the opportunity to review, please contact me to discuss any questions or concerns you may have and any revisions that you would like made to the documents prior to signing.”

The Peace of Mind That Comes From Careful Planning

Proper beneficiary planning offers remarkable benefits that extend far beyond avoiding problems. At McLeod Legal Advisors, we’ve seen how thoughtful, coordinated beneficiary designations create lasting peace of mind for our clients.

Protection for Vulnerable Beneficiaries

Strategic beneficiary planning provides essential protections for those who need it most:

• Special needs provisions: Properly structured designations can ensure disabled beneficiaries receive their inheritance without jeopardizing essential government benefits.
• Spendthrift protection: For beneficiaries struggling with financial management, addiction, or creditor problems, specialized trust provisions can provide controlled distributions while protecting assets.
• Educational priorities: Designations can be structured to prioritize educational expenses, incentivize achievement, or support specific developmental goals.

Family Harmony Preservation

One of the greatest gifts of careful planning is the preservation of family relationships:

• Clear intentions reduce conflict: When your wishes are explicitly stated and legally structured, the potential for misunderstanding and disagreement among family members is significantly reduced.
• Equitable treatment: Coordinated planning ensures all beneficiaries are treated according to your wishes, reducing feelings of favoritism or neglect.
• Legacy preservation: Beyond financial assets, proper planning helps preserve your values and wishes for future generations.

Adaptability to Life’s Changes

A well-designed plan includes mechanisms for addressing inevitable life changes:

• Flexible provisions: Strategic planning anticipates and accommodates potential future scenarios, from the birth of new family members to changes in tax law.
• Regular review process: A relationship with a trusted advisor ensures your plan evolves as your life circumstances change.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your plan is comprehensive, current, and coordinated allows you to live with confidence that your loved ones will be properly provided for.

How We Help You Create the Right Plan For Your Needs

At McLeod Legal Advisors, led by Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., our approach to beneficiary designations is comprehensive and personalized. We understand that these designations are not mere administrative details but crucial components of your overall legacy plan.

Our Comprehensive Beneficiary Planning Process

Our estate planning practice implements a thorough methodology:

1. Complete Beneficiary Audit

We begin with a comprehensive review of all your assets and existing beneficiary designations:

• Account inventory: We help you catalog all life insurance, retirement accounts, bank accounts, investment accounts, and other assets with beneficiary designations.
• Current designation analysis: We review your existing designations to identify gaps, conflicts, or outdated provisions.
• Coordination assessment: We evaluate how your current designations interact with your overall estate plan and identify inconsistencies.

2. Strategic Design

Based on your specific family situation and goals, we develop a coordinated beneficiary strategy:

• Primary and contingent beneficiary planning: We help you establish appropriate primary and backup beneficiaries for all accounts.
• Trust integration: When appropriate, we design trust-based beneficiary arrangements to provide additional protection and control.
• Special provisions: We incorporate specific provisions for unique family circumstances, including blended families, special needs beneficiaries, or financially vulnerable heirs.

As our estate planning literature explains: “A simple will is also needed to ‘pour over’ to the trust any property which is not transferred to the trust during life.” We ensure all components work together seamlessly.

3. Implementation Support

Unlike many law firms, we don’t just advise—we help implement:

• Financial institution coordination: We provide clear instructions and support for updating designations across all your accounts.
• Documentation: We ensure all changes are properly documented and maintained in your estate planning portfolio.
• Confirmation verification: We follow up to confirm that institutions have properly recorded your updated designations.

4. Ongoing Monitoring

We establish a relationship designed to keep your plan current:

• Regular review schedule: We recommend periodic reviews to ensure your designations remain aligned with your goals and current law.
• Life event check-ins: We encourage updates following major life events such as births, deaths, marriages, divorces, or significant asset changes.
• Legislative monitoring: We keep you informed about relevant legal or tax changes that might affect your beneficiary designations.

The McLeod Legal Advisors Difference

Our approach is distinguished by several key factors:

• Integrated planning: We view beneficiary designations not as isolated decisions but as integral components of your comprehensive legacy plan.
• Educational focus: We ensure you understand not just what recommendations we make, but why they’re important for your specific situation.
• Relationship-based: Rev. McLeod’s unique background as both an attorney and ordained clergyman brings a holistic perspective that considers both technical legal requirements and deeper family dynamics.

As our client Mrs. Patricia K. Owens experienced firsthand through our detailed client communication: “I look forward to assisting you through the remainder of the estate planning process.”

Don’t leave your family’s future to chance or let overlooked beneficiary designations undermine your carefully crafted estate plan. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule a comprehensive beneficiary designation review. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified attorney.

Why Personal Property Distribution Matters in Illinois Estate Planning

When Illinois families think about estate planning, they often focus on major assets like homes, investment accounts, and life insurance policies. However, at McLeod Legal Advisors, we’ve witnessed countless conflicts arise not over financial assets, but over personal belongings with sentimental value. Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq., a respected estate planning attorney in Chicago, explores how proper planning for your personal items can preserve family harmony and honor your legacy.

Why Personal Belongings Trigger the Most Heated Estate Disputes: Insights from an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

It might seem surprising that families who amicably agree on distributing millions in financial assets can become deeply divided over items worth relatively little monetary value. Yet in our estate planning practice in Chicago, we’ve seen bitter conflicts erupt over:

• Family photographs and albums
• Holiday decorations with childhood memories
• Jewelry, even pieces with minimal financial worth
• Furniture passed down through generations
• Collections built over decades
• Kitchen items used for family gatherings
• Tools from a parent’s workshop
• Handwritten recipes, letters, and cards

These personal items often hold emotional significance that transcends their financial value. Unlike cash or securities that can be divided equally, personal belongings are unique and irreplaceable—making their distribution far more complicated and emotionally charged. This is why working with an experienced Illinois estate planning attorney is so important when creating your comprehensive plan.

Understanding the Root Causes of Family Conflicts: A Chicago Estate Planning Attorney’s Perspective

In our experience counseling Illinois families through estate administration, we’ve identified key perceptual issues that frequently spark conflict:

The Problem of Perceived Fairness

Family members often have drastically different perceptions of what constitutes “fair” distribution of personal items:

• Equal vs. equitable division: Should items be divided so each person gets approximately equal financial value, or should distribution acknowledge special connections particular family members have to certain items?
• Past contributions: Adult children who provided more caregiving often feel entitled to more recognition in the distribution of personal items.
• Historical promises: Verbal commitments like “Mom always said I would get her wedding china” can create expectations that may conflict with other family members’ understandings.

As our estate planning literature explains, “When title to real estate is held in a land trust, the interest of the beneficiary, under the terms of the trust agreement, is personal property.” Similarly, your personal property deserves the same careful consideration in your estate plan that any qualified estate planning attorney in Illinois would provide for your real estate and financial assets.

The Challenge of Unspoken Expectations

Family conflict often stems from assumptions that were never communicated:

• Childhood connections: A child may have deep attachment to an item the parent never realized was significant to them.
• Unrevealed intentions: Parents sometimes fail to communicate their wishes about specific items, leaving children to make incorrect assumptions.
• Differing memories: Family members may have conflicting recollections about promised items or their significance.

Our client interactions have revealed that unexpressed expectations about personal belongings can damage family relationships for years—sometimes permanently—after a loved one’s passing. This is why an experienced Chicago estate planning attorney will address personal property distribution in detail.

The Emotional Timing Factor

The period immediately following a loss is perhaps the worst possible time for families to make decisions about personal belongings:

• Heightened emotions: Grief can intensify reactions and reduce conflict resolution abilities.
• Pressure for quick decisions: Practical matters like vacating a home often rush decisions that deserve more thoughtful consideration.
• Resurfacing of old dynamics: Family roles and historical tensions often reemerge during times of stress.

As we explain to our clients at McLeod Legal Advisors: “The probate process is a public proceeding where interested parties who have a complaint regarding the deceased can file a complaint (a will contest). These proceedings generally are expensive, time consuming and tie up your property.” This is why any thorough estate planning attorney in Chicago will help you plan for personal property distribution before these emotional challenges arise.

Proactive Solutions from Your Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois

The good news is that with proactive planning and open communication, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of conflicts over your personal belongings. Here’s how we guide our Illinois clients to create harmony rather than discord:

Create a Personal Property Memorandum with Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

Many Illinois residents don’t realize they can create a legally binding personal property memorandum to accompany their will or trust:

• Flexibility with formality: This document allows you to specify who receives particular items without the formality of amending your will or trust each time you change your mind.
• Detailed descriptions: You can include photographs and specific descriptions to avoid confusion about which items are designated for which recipients.
• Personal messages: Many clients include the story behind specific items or why they chose a particular recipient, adding meaningful context to the gift.

Our estate planning documents explain that “Upon your death, the trust property (including property added to the trust by the will) passes to individuals or charity, either outright or in trust, as directed by the terms of your living trust.” A personal property memorandum provides similar specific direction for your cherished belongings, a solution any experienced Illinois estate planning attorney would recommend.

Facilitate Family Conversations: A Recommendation from Estate Planning Attorneys in Chicago

In our estate planning practice, we often encourage and sometimes facilitate family discussions about personal belongings:

• Pre-planning conversations: While you’re still able to participate, consider hosting family discussions about meaningful items and who might want what.
• Documented preferences: Have family members create wish lists of items that hold special meaning to them—you might be surprised by what matters to different people.
• Shared stories: Use these conversations to share the history and significance of family heirlooms, which often enriches their meaning and importance to the next generation.

As Rev. McLeod, a respected estate planning attorney in Illinois, often reminds clients: “Estate planning is the preservation and the distribution of your assets, both during your life and upon your death. It is accomplishing your personal and family goals and easing the management of your financial and legal affairs.”

Consider Lifetime Gifting: Strategic Advice from Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

For many of our Chicago-area clients, giving away significant personal items during their lifetime provides multiple benefits:

• Witnessing joy: You experience the pleasure of seeing loved ones enjoy special items.
• Story sharing: You can personally share the history and meaning behind items while you’re able.
• Reducing later burden: Every item distributed during life is one less item to cause potential conflict later.
• Tax considerations: Lifetime gifting may also provide tax advantages in certain situations.

As our estate planning materials note: “Gifting programs to next generation” are an important component of comprehensive estate planning that many overlook but that any thorough estate planning attorney in Chicago will discuss with you.

Managing Remaining Belongings: Guidance from an Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

Many clients worry about the burden their personal belongings will place on their families. At McLeod Legal Advisors, we help Illinois families develop thoughtful plans for items that won’t be kept:

Create a Disposition Plan with Your Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

A comprehensive estate plan should include guidance for items not specifically bequeathed:

• Donation directives: Specify organizations that align with your values for different categories of items.
• Sale instructions: Provide direction about whether items should be sold privately, at auction, or through estate sale specialists.
• Distribution of proceeds: Clarify how proceeds from sales should be distributed among beneficiaries.

Our planning approach as experienced Illinois estate planning attorneys addresses these practical concerns while honoring your values and preferences.

Provide Resource Recommendations: Value-Added Service from Chicago Estate Planning Attorneys

Through our extensive estate planning practice in Chicago, we’ve developed relationships with trusted professionals who can assist your family:

• Estate sale specialists: These professionals can maximize value while minimizing family stress.
• Appraisers: For collections or potentially valuable items, professional appraisals help ensure fair distribution.
• Auction houses: For certain items, specialized auctions may yield better results than general estate sales.
• Charitable organizations: We can connect your executor with organizations that will properly value and make good use of donated items.

As we explain in our client communications: “I look forward to assisting you through the remainder of the estate planning process,” which includes these practical considerations that distinguish us as comprehensive estate planning attorneys in Illinois.

Document Sentimental Items: A Strategy Recommended by Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys

We encourage clients to create records of items with primarily sentimental value:

• Digital archives: Photos and videos of sentimental items with narration about their significance can preserve memories even if physical items aren’t kept.
• Written histories: Stories about special pieces can be preserved even if the items themselves are sold or donated.
• Family cookbooks: Recipes, especially handwritten ones, can be preserved and shared with all family members.

These preservation strategies honor your legacy while reducing the physical burden on your beneficiaries—an approach any thoughtful Chicago estate planning attorney would support.

Leave a Legacy of Harmony, Not Conflict: The McLeod Legal Advisors Philosophy

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we believe that a truly comprehensive estate plan addresses not just financial assets but the emotional aspects of your legacy. Here’s how we help Illinois families create plans that foster unity rather than division:

Comprehensive Personal Property Planning from Your Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

Our approach to personal property in estate planning is methodical and thorough:

• Identification of significant items: We help you identify which personal belongings are most likely to have emotional significance to family members.
• Clear documentation: We create legally binding directives for personal property distribution that complement your will or trust.
• Equitable approaches: We discuss various methods for fair distribution, including lottery systems, rotation selection, and predetermined groupings.

As our estate planning materials emphasize: “The purpose of giving someone such a power in connection with your estate planning is to enable the agent to act on your behalf when you cannot act for yourself.” This principle extends to thoughtful planning for personal belongings, a focus that sets apart a truly comprehensive Illinois estate planning attorney.

Conflict Prevention Strategies: The Mark of an Experienced Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

Beyond documentation, we incorporate specific strategies to minimize potential disputes:

• Independent executor provisions: When family dynamics suggest potential conflict, we may recommend an independent executor to oversee personal property distribution.
• Mediation clauses: We can include provisions requiring mediation before any formal contests can be filed regarding personal property distribution.
• Video explanations: Some clients choose to record video messages explaining particularly significant gifting decisions.

Our experience as estate planning attorneys in Illinois has shown that these preventive measures significantly reduce family tensions during the emotional time following a loss.

The Gift of Clarity and Thoughtfulness: What Your Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago Can Provide

Perhaps the greatest gift you can leave your loved ones is the clarity that comes from thoughtful planning:

• Reduced decision burden: Clear direction eliminates the need for grieving family members to make difficult decisions.
• Prevention of regret: Thoughtful planning prevents the remorse that often follows hasty distributions made under emotional duress.
• Preserved relationships: Most importantly, comprehensive planning for personal belongings helps preserve the family bonds you cherish.

As Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, a respected Chicago estate planning attorney, often tells clients: “Estate planning is not just about distributing assets—it’s about preserving the relationships between those you leave behind.”

The McLeod Legal Advisors Approach: What Sets Us Apart as Estate Planning Attorneys in Illinois

At McLeod Legal Advisors, our approach to preventing family conflicts over personal belongings is uniquely comprehensive:

Initial Family Values Assessment: The Foundation of Our Illinois Estate Planning Practice

We begin by understanding your family dynamics and values:

• Family structure analysis: We explore the relationships among potential beneficiaries to identify possible tension points.
• Values clarification: We help you articulate the values you hope to express through your estate plan.
• Priority identification: We determine which aspects of your legacy matter most to you—financial security, family harmony, charitable impact, or other priorities.

Customized Planning Tools: Tailored Solutions from Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

Based on your specific situation, we develop appropriate planning tools:

• Detailed personal property memorandums: We create clear, legally binding documentation of your wishes regarding specific items.
• Structured distribution processes: We design fair systems for distributing items not specifically bequeathed.
• Video documentation support: When helpful, we facilitate the creation of video records explaining the significance of specific bequests.

Implementation Support: Beyond What Most Estate Planning Attorneys in Illinois Provide

Unlike many estate planning firms, we provide practical support for implementing your personal property plan:

• Family meeting facilitation: When appropriate, we help facilitate family discussions about personal property.
• Documentation assistance: We help you create the necessary photographic and written records of significant items.
• Professional referrals: We connect you with appraisers, archivists, and other professionals who can assist with cataloging and valuing personal property.

Ongoing Review and Adaptation: The Advantage of Working with a Chicago Estate Planning Attorney

We recognize that your relationships with both people and possessions evolve over time:

• Regular plan reviews: We schedule periodic reviews to ensure your personal property plans remain current with your wishes.
• Life transition support: We provide guidance for updating your plans during major life changes such as moves, downsizing, or changes in family structure.
• Emergency planning: We ensure your personal property plans address unexpected circumstances.

The Rev. Aaron J. McLeod difference is our commitment to addressing not just the legal aspects of estate planning, but the deeply personal and emotional elements that ultimately matter most to families—a comprehensive approach that distinguishes truly exceptional estate planning attorneys in Illinois.

Contact Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don’t leave your family to navigate the emotional minefield of distributing your personal belongings without guidance. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted Chicago estate planning attorney firm, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule a consultation about comprehensive personal property planning. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

Working with an experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois like Rev. McLeod gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve not only protected your financial assets but also preserved the family harmony that is perhaps your most precious legacy.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified Illinois estate planning attorney.

Introduction: Why Estate Settlement Matters to Illinois Families

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we’ve guided countless Illinois families through the process of settling their loved ones’ estates. While most people understand that this process involves some paperwork and legal procedures, few truly grasp the full impact it can have on those left behind. Today, as experienced estate planning attorneys in Illinois, we’re pulling back the curtain on what really happens when a family member passes away without proper estate planning.

The Unexpected Time Commitment: Why Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Warns Against Procrastination

When someone dies, their affairs don’t automatically resolve themselves. Instead, they become the responsibility of their personal representative—whether that’s an executor named in a will or an administrator appointed by the court if there was no will. This responsibility is far more time-consuming than most people realize, which is why any knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Chicago will emphasize the importance of advance planning.

Probate Timeline Reality: What Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney Wants You to Know

As our estate planning materials explain: “Probate that can take months and sometimes years.” This isn’t an exaggeration. Consider what this process typically involves:

• Initial court filings: Locating the will (if one exists), filing a petition with the probate court, and notifying all potential heirs and beneficiaries—often requiring multiple court appearances.
• Asset inventory: Creating a comprehensive inventory of all assets owned by the deceased, which can take weeks or even months to complete, especially if records are disorganized or incomplete.
• Creditor notifications: Publishing notices to potential creditors and addressing all valid claims against the estate.
• Tax filings: Preparing and filing final income tax returns for the deceased, plus estate tax returns if applicable. As our materials note: “The main reason for delay in the distribution of assets after death involves the filing of the death tax returns and payment of death taxes.”
• Property management: Maintaining and managing all property during the probate process, including paying mortgages, insurance, and utilities on real estate.
• Asset distribution: Finally distributing assets according to the will or state law, which often cannot begin until all creditors’ claims and taxes are resolved.

For many personal representatives, this process becomes almost a part-time job, stretching over 9-18 months even for modest estates. We’ve seen clients take leave from work or sacrifice significant personal time to fulfill these duties. This is why consulting with an estate planning attorney in Illinois is so important before these issues arise.

As one client shared with us: “I had no idea I would spend nearly every weekend for a year sorting through my father’s affairs. I was still finding accounts and paperwork two years after his passing.”

The Financial and Emotional Costs: What a Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Can Help You Avoid

Beyond the time investment, settling an estate carries substantial financial and emotional costs that often catch families by surprise. Working with an experienced estate planning attorney in Chicago can help mitigate these costs.

The Financial Burden of Improper Planning

Without proper planning, the costs can quickly accumulate:

• Attorney fees: Legal representation through probate is often necessary, especially for larger estates or when disputes arise.
• Court costs and filing fees: Various court filings throughout the probate process incur fees.
• Executor/administrator fees: Personal representatives are entitled to compensation for their work, typically calculated as a percentage of the estate.
• Appraisal and accounting fees: Professional valuations of property and financial accountings are frequently required.
• Tax consequences: Without strategic planning, estates may face higher tax burdens than necessary.

Our estate planning materials emphasize: “A living trust to avoid probate usually reduces attorneys’ fees, although it is impossible to estimate accurately the savings to your heirs. However, even if all of your assets have been placed in a living trust and probate is completely avoided, an attorney and an accountant are usually required to assist with distribution of the trust assets upon death and to prepare death tax returns.”

These costs are not merely financial line items—they represent a reduction in the legacy you intended to leave your loved ones. A qualified Illinois estate planning attorney can help you minimize these costs through proper planning.

The Emotional Toll That Your Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois Can Help Prevent

Perhaps even more significant than the financial costs is the emotional burden placed on families:

• Decision fatigue: Executors must make countless decisions while grieving, often second-guessing what the deceased would have wanted.
• Family tension: Without clear guidance, disagreements about asset distribution can strain or permanently damage family relationships.
• Delayed closure: The extended probate process can prevent emotional closure, keeping wounds fresh as legal matters drag on.
• Privacy concerns: Probate is a public process, meaning your family’s financial matters and potential conflicts become part of the public record. As our literature notes: “Probate records are open to the public; a living trust is not.”

We’ve seen first hand how these emotional burdens can transform what should be a time of healing into a period of increased stress and conflict. This is why working with a compassionate Chicago estate planning attorney who understands these dynamics is so important.

How a Life & Legacy Plan Makes a Difference: The Value of Working with an Estate Planning Attorney in Chicago

At McLeod Legal Advisors, we don’t just create estate plans—we create Life & Legacy Plans designed to protect both your assets and your family’s well-being after you’re gone. Here’s how comprehensive planning with an experienced Illinois estate planning attorney transforms the experience for your loved ones:

Dramatic Time Reduction Through Professional Planning

A properly structured plan significantly reduces the time commitment required of your family:

• Avoiding probate: Assets held in a revocable living trust bypass the probate process entirely. As our materials explain: “A living trust provides for the continuing management of property upon the death or disability of the trustor and generally allows property to be more quickly distributed upon the trustor’s death. This is because a successor trustee can act almost immediately without the necessity of notice or court approval.”
• Clear instructions: Detailed documentation eliminates guesswork and reduces the need for court intervention.
• Streamlined administration: A well-organized inventory of assets prevents the scavenger hunt that often characterizes probate.

These benefits are why working with a knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Chicago is an investment that pays dividends for your family when they need it most.

Financial Protection Strategies from Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

A Life & Legacy Plan helps preserve your estate’s value:

• Reduced administrative costs: Avoiding probate typically means lower overall settlement costs.
• Tax planning opportunities: Strategic planning can minimize estate and income tax burdens.
• Protection from creditors: Certain trust structures can provide enhanced protection from creditors’ claims.
• Preservation of public benefits: Proper planning ensures that inheritances don’t disqualify vulnerable beneficiaries from important government benefits.

These financial protections are part of the comprehensive service provided by an experienced Chicago estate planning attorney.

Emotional Peace of Mind: The Gift of Working with an Estate Planning Attorney in Illinois

Perhaps most importantly, a comprehensive plan provides emotional protection:

• Clarity of intentions: Your explicit wishes prevent misunderstandings and potential conflicts.
• Privacy preservation: Unlike probate, trust administration remains private, keeping family matters confidential.
• Immediate access to resources: Successor trustees can typically access funds immediately to pay for funeral expenses and support dependents without court approval.
• Preservation of relationships: Clear direction eliminates the ambiguity that often leads to family disagreements.

As one client eloquently put it: “My father’s trust was the last gift he gave us—not just financially, but in the peace and clarity it provided during an otherwise difficult time.” This peace of mind is what drives us as dedicated estate planning attorneys in Illinois.

How We Help You Create a Plan That Works: The McLeod Legal Advisors Approach

At McLeod Legal Advisors, our approach to estate planning is distinctive and comprehensive, setting us apart from other Chicago estate planning attorneys:

Personalized Assessment from Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

We begin with a thorough understanding of your unique situation:

• Family dynamics: We take time to understand your family structure, including potential complexities like blended families or special needs beneficiaries.
• Asset review: We conduct a comprehensive inventory of all assets, regardless of value, to ensure nothing is overlooked.
• Values discussion: Beyond finances, we explore what legacy means to you—the values, traditions, and knowledge you wish to preserve.

This personalized approach is what distinguishes a truly effective estate planning attorney in Chicago.

Custom Design from Experienced Chicago Estate Planning Attorneys

Based on this assessment, we create a tailored plan that may include:

• Revocable living trust: As our estate planning materials explain, this foundation of many plans “is entirely revocable and amendable by you during your lifetime, but the terms become irrevocable at death.”
• Pour-over will: This essential companion to your trust ensures any assets not yet transferred to your trust at death are “poured over” into it.
• Advanced directives: Including healthcare power of attorney and living will to ensure your healthcare wishes are honored.
• Durable power of attorney: Our client letters explain this document “nominates an individual to serve as your attorney-in-fact” who is “given the power to act on your behalf, as if you were present and acting, with respect to your property.”
• Guardianship designations: Clear instructions for the care of minor children or dependent adults.
• Asset protection strategies: Including specialized structures for business owners or those with significant assets.

This comprehensive approach is what you should expect from a qualified Illinois estate planning attorney.

Implementation Support: Service Beyond What Most Estate Planning Attorneys in Illinois Provide

Unlike many firms, our service doesn’t end with document signing:

• Funding assistance: We help ensure assets are properly titled and beneficiary designations are updated.
• Organization systems: We provide tools to keep your planning documents and asset information organized and accessible.
• Family meeting facilitation: When appropriate, we help facilitate discussions with family members about your plan.

This level of implementation support distinguishes truly client-centered estate planning attorneys in Chicago.

Ongoing Care: The Long-Term Value of Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Relationship

Estate planning is not a one-time event but an ongoing process:

• Regular reviews: We recommend periodic reviews to ensure your plan remains aligned with your goals and current law.
• Lifetime amendments: As your life changes, we help adapt your plan accordingly.
• Settlement support: When the time comes, we provide guidance to your trustees and executors to ensure smooth administration.

This ongoing relationship is part of what makes working with an experienced estate planning attorney in Illinois so valuable.

A Different Kind of Legacy: The Unique Perspective of Your Illinois Estate Planning Attorney

At McLeod Legal Advisors, Rev. Aaron J. McLeod, Esq. brings a unique perspective to estate planning, combining legal expertise with deep understanding of family dynamics and spiritual values. As both an attorney and ordained clergyman with standing in the Baptist church and United Church of Christ, Rev. McLeod recognizes that your legacy encompasses more than financial assets—it includes your values, wisdom, and the relationships you cherish.

The truth about settling an estate is that it will never be completely effortless for those left behind. But with thoughtful planning from a compassionate Chicago estate planning attorney, you can transform what could be a burdensome process into a final expression of your care and consideration for your loved ones.

Contact Your Chicago Estate Planning Attorney Today

Don’t leave your family to navigate these challenges without a map. Contact McLeod Legal Advisors, your trusted estate planning attorney in Illinois, today at (312) 725-9974 or amcleod@mcleodlegaladvisors.com to schedule a consultation. Our office is located at 1510 E. 55th Street, Unit #15396, Chicago, IL 60615-2598.

Working with an experienced estate planning attorney in Chicago gives you the peace of mind that comes from knowing you’ve taken the necessary steps to protect your family from unnecessary stress, conflict, and expense during an already difficult time.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific advice regarding your situation, please consult with a qualified Illinois estate planning attorney.