Estate Planning Blog Digest

Estate Planning in St. Charles, IL, serving the Western Suburbs of Chicago

There’s More to Wealth Than Money… Protect Your Family, Wealth & Legacy

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Probate

Probate services refer to the legal services provided to individuals or families involved in the administration of a deceased person’s estate. These services typically involve the court-supervised process of distributing the deceased person’s assets and properties to their beneficiaries or heirs according to their will or state laws if there is no will. Probate services may include drafting and filing legal documents, representing clients in court, resolving disputes between beneficiaries, managing estate assets, and advising clients on tax implications and strategies for asset protection. The goal of probate services is to ensure that the estate is distributed in an orderly and fair manner while minimizing costs and maximizing the value of the estate for the beneficiaries. Probate services are often provided by lawyers, but may also be provided by other professionals such as estate planners or financial advisors.

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Learn how Illinois’ updated 2025 small estate affidavit law raises the limit to $150,000, helping more families avoid probate and save costs.
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Serving as both trustee and beneficiary is legal in many cases. However, it requires careful structuring to avoid conflicts, preserve fairness and ensure that the trust’s intent is honored.
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Planning early after a dementia diagnosis ensures that your medical and personal wishes are documented, which can ease future stress and maintain control over decisions as the disease progresses.
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Tony Hsieh left a will that was just discovered—4½ years after his death, according to a new court filing that could upend the tech mogul’s probate case and legal battles over his estate.
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No one expects a sudden medical crisis. However, being prepared can save your family from unnecessary legal battles and emotional distress.
Siblings often play a long-term role in the care of a family member with special needs—early inclusion in estate planning builds confidence, clarity and family unity.