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Recent blog posts
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The Differences Between Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts in Illinois
: The Differences Between Revocable and Irrevocable Trusts in IllinoisWhen it comes time to plan your estate, it is more than just drafting a will or deciding who gets your personal belongings. You need a strategy that helps manage your assets, avoids unnecessary legal complications, and protects your wealth. One of the most effective ways to do this is through a trust. But not…
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The Probate Process for Business Owners in Illinois
: The Probate Process for Business Owners in IllinoisWhen you’re a business owner, estate planning isn’t just about what happens to your home or personal belongings after you pass. It’s also about what happens to the company you’ve worked hard to build. One crucial piece of this puzzle is understanding how probate works, especially in Illinois, where the legal landscape can be complex….
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Spring Cleaning Your Estate Plan: What to Review Each Year
: Spring Cleaning Your Estate Plan: What to Review Each YearSpring is a time for fresh starts and clean slates. As you dust off your shelves and organize your closets, consider taking a closer look at your estate plan. Just like your home, your estate plan needs regular attention to stay in order. A plan that worked a year ago might not reflect your current…
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The Illinois Probate Process: What Families Should Know
: The Illinois Probate Process: What Families Should KnowThe passing of a loved one is always an emotional time. On top of the grief, families are often faced with a series of legal steps that must be taken to handle the person’s estate. In Illinois, that process is known as probate. While the word itself might sound complicated, understanding what probate means, and…
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After the loss of a loved one, many families are left with questions, both emotional and legal. One of the most common concerns we hear is about timing: “How long will this probate process take?” The answer isn’t always straightforward. In Illinois, probate can move quickly in some cases, while in others, it can take…
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What to Do If a Will Is Missing or Invalid in Illinois
: What to Do If a Will Is Missing or Invalid in IllinoisWhen someone passes away in Illinois, their will typically outlines how their estate should be distributed. However, there are instances when a will is missing, or the validity of the will is questioned. If you are in a situation where a will cannot be located or is believed to be invalid, it is crucial to…
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When a person passes away in Illinois, their estate may need to go through probate, a legal process where the court oversees the distribution of assets to heirs and beneficiaries. However, not all assets are subject to probate. Understanding which assets must go through this process can help families plan effectively and avoid unnecessary delays….
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Understanding the Role of an Executor in Illinois Probate
: Understanding the Role of an Executor in Illinois ProbateThe probate process in Illinois can be complex and often overwhelming, especially during a time of grief. A key figure in navigating this process is the executor, a person designated in a will to manage the deceased’s estate. Understanding the executor’s role and responsibilities is crucial for both those named as executors and beneficiaries of…
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Common Mistakes That Can Delay Probate in Illinois
: Common Mistakes That Can Delay Probate in Illinois Probate, the legal process of administering a deceased person’s estate, can be complex and time-consuming. In Illinois, certain common errors can significantly delay this process, causing stress and added expense for beneficiaries. Understanding these common errors can help executors and families avoid unnecessary delays, ensuring a smoother administration of the estate. At Bielski Chapman, LTD.,…
