Our blog
Stories and interviews
Subscribe to learn for helpful articles, solutions, and Bielski Chapman, Ltd. updates.
Recent blog posts
-
Estate Tax Considerations for Special Needs Trusts in Illinois
: Estate Tax Considerations for Special Needs Trusts in IllinoisWhen planning for the future of a loved one with special needs, establishing a Special Needs Trust (SNT) is often a vital component of an estate plan. For residents of Illinois, it is essential to understand the unique estate tax considerations that can arise with these trusts. This knowledge can ensure that your loved one…
-
Special needs planning is a component of estate planning designed to address the requirements of individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions. For families in Illinois, this planning is essential to ensure the long-term care and financial stability of loved ones with special needs. Bielski Chapman, LTD., our respected Illinois estate planning attorneys are here to…
-
Navigating Family Disputes During Illinois Probate
: Navigating Family Disputes During Illinois ProbateWhen a loved one passes away, the probate process can be emotionally and legally complex, particularly in Illinois. While the goal is to ensure the deceased’s wishes are carried out, we understand that family disputes often arise during probate proceedings, adding an extra layer of stress to an already challenging time. At Bielski Chapman, we…
All blog posts
-
After a person passes away, there are situations where their estate will enter into probate. During this time, the court will administer and distribute the deceased’s assets and pay off any debts. While it is often necessary, probate can be a costly and time-consuming process. However, there are strategies you can use to reduce these…
-
Challenging a will is never an easy process. Many times, family members and other interested parties will question the validity of the will. As you can imagine, that leads to plenty of legal concerns and family challenges. However, this document must be authentic and respect the wishes of the decedent. If you want to know…
-
When 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 to manage your assets and ensure a smooth transition after you pass away. However, one aspect is often overlooked: asset protection. Let’s look at the importance of asset…
-
Not all estates have to go through a long and complicated probate process. If the estate is small, there are court procedures that can avoid those longer legal battles. Many times, this occurs when the deceased individual does not own many assets. If you would like to learn more about probate administration for small estates,…
-
Many people choose to use a trust for their estate planning and asset protection. However, there may be times when circumstances change in a person’s life. In these cases, they may need to modify or terminate the trust. In the state of Illinois, there are a few rules and procedures that must be followed. Let’s…
-
Losing a loved one is an incredibly difficult experience. However, dealing with legal matters can add to the emotional pain and stress of these events. No one wants to go through probate, but it is an unfortunate process for many estates. If you find yourself in this position, here are a few facts about how…