Naperville Wills Lawyer
Wills Attorney in Naperville, Illinois
Take charge of your legacy today; contact us to start building an estate plan that provides peace of mind and protection for your loved ones.
At Nowling Law, LLC, we understand that estate planning goes beyond just creating legal documents. It’s about securing your family’s future, protecting your assets, and ensuring your wishes are respected. With a well-structured estate plan, you can provide clear guidance for your loved ones during difficult transitions, giving both you and your heirs peace of mind.
Wills Attorney in Naperville, IL
A last will and testament is a critical foundation for an estate plan. Your will is a crucial legal tool that details how you want your estate handled upon your death. Without one, the courts will distribute your estate according to Illinois state law. This will leave your loved ones in limbo as they navigate the probate process. A Naperville wills lawyer at Nowling Law, LLC can help you navigate drafting a will with a clear approach.
Trustworthy Guidance When Creating and Updating Wills
Being proactive in drafting a will allows you to have a voice after you pass. Our firm can guide you through choosing which type of will works for you and your family. The most common types of wills are:
- Simple will – This is the most basic form of a will. Simple wills work well for people with less complex estates. A simple will relays how a person wants their assets to be divided and who they would like to inherit the property.
- Living will – This is also known as an advanced directive. This document names someone to make healthcare choices if you become incapacitated or are unable to make your own decisions.
- Pour-over will – This will automatically places assets into a trust once you pass away. It can ensure that no assets are left unprotected.
- Testamentary trust – This is typically written into someone’s will and goes into effect immediately upon their passing. A trustee will be named in the last will, and this person will oversee the distribution of assets included in the trust.
It is important to know that no matter which option you choose, your estate will still be subject to probate court proceedings. Probate can be a lengthy process, but having a will can eliminate confusion over your last wishes and who you wish to administer your estate. Our attorneys can craft your will using clear language to ensure its execution, waive surety bond requirements, and help to avoid large tax bills.
Illinois Estate Tax
Illinois is one of the few remaining states that imposes a death tax. As of 2023, the Illinois estate tax exemption is $4 million per person. If you are married, both spouses’ estates are assessed separately at this amount. For estates that exceed the $4 million threshold, Illinois’s estate tax rates are quite progressive. Rates range from 0.8% to 16%, depending on the size of the estate, and the tax applies to the entire estate value.
Given these hefty taxes, it is important for Naperville residents to hire a wills lawyer who can factor in tax planning in their estate plan.
Why Choose Nowling Law, LLC?
Choosing the correct Naperville wills attorney can be an overwhelming task. At Nowling Law, LLC, our relatable approach to estate planning can help you develop a will that fits your needs. A lot of thought should go into crafting a will. With the help of our firm, you can plan now and live with peace of mind knowing that your estate and loved ones will be taken care of after your death.
Our attorney, Scott Nowling, brings years of estate planning experience to families in Naperville, IL, and surrounding areas. He can provide valuable insight and knowledge when it comes to drafting wills. By focusing on estate planning, our team ensures that clients receive personalized care as they navigate making these important decisions and documents.
FAQs About Naperville, IL Wills Laws
Do I Need a Will in Naperville?
Yes, you need a will in Naperville. A will gives you control over your assets after your death. Without it, your assets will be distributed according to Illinois law, which may not align with your wishes. A will is also essential when appointing legal guardians for minor children. Without a legal guardian named in your will, the courts may make this decision for you.
What Is the Average Cost of a Will in Illinois?
The cost of a will in Illinois depends on the complexity of the documents and your estate. A will for a larger, more complex estate will cost more to draft, especially if there are special provisions listed. Including additional documents, such as an advanced directive, with your will may increase costs. You should reach out to our Naperville wills lawyer to discuss the details of your estate and determine an accurate cost.
What Type of Lawyer Is Ideal for Drafting a Will in Naperville?
A local estate planning lawyer is the ideal choice for drafting your will in Naperville. These lawyers are well-versed in Illinois estate planning laws and can advise on how to reduce the stress of probate, advise on tax-beneficial plans, and set up guardianships if your estate requires.
Wills can be complex documents with many moving parts. It is important to have an attorney with extensive experience in estate planning to make sure your final wishes are carried out after you pass.
What Is the Biggest Mistake Made With Wills?
The biggest mistake people make is not having a will at all. According to a recent study, only about 24% of Americans have a will in place as of 2025. Without a will, you forfeit control over how your assets are distributed after your death. Another major mistake people make is not updating their will after major life events. If your will was drafted over 15 years ago, it is important to have it updated, as so much can change within that time.
Hire a Wills Lawyer
At Nowling Law, LLC, we understand the importance of having your affairs in order. Our attorney works with clients who are brand new to estate planning or need to update their will. With over 160 Google reviews, our firm has a reputation for leaving clients happy and feeling like they’ve had a burden lifted from their shoulders.
Our office is located on Foxfield Rd in St. Charles. We serve clients in the Western Suburbs of Chicago, including Naperville. Take the first step and contact us today to book your initial call. We can work hard to make this process easy for you.
Client Success Stories
Hiring a lawyer can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. From the moment you contact our firm, through the final resolution of your matter, our goal is to make the process easy and understandable.