312.583.9430
Our blog
Stories and interviews
Subscribe to learn for helpful articles, solutions, and Bielski Chapman, Ltd. updates.
Recent blog posts
-
Selecting the right trustee is one of the most important decisions you will make when creating a trust in Illinois. The trustee is responsible for managing trust assets, following the terms of the trust document, and acting in the best interests of the beneficiaries. A well‑chosen trustee can ensure your estate plan works exactly as…
-
Succession Planning for Family-Owned Businesses in Illinois
: Succession Planning for Family-Owned Businesses in IllinoisYou care about your family-owned business. There has been a lot of hard work in getting it off the ground and successful. Whether you’ve had the business for a few years, or many decades, you want to ensure it is protected after you pass away. Without a clear succession plan, your business could face big…
-
After losing a loved one, the last thing you want to think about is the cost of probate. However, it is a part of administering the estate. Probate often gets the reputation for being slow and expensive. In Illinois, most estates can move through pretty efficiently, reducing fees depending on the size and complexity of…
All blog posts
-
What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Illinois?
: What Happens If You Die Without a Will in Illinois?When someone dies without a will in Illinois, the court does not leave the estate in limbo. Instead, it follows a legal process known as intestate succession. This process determines how the deceased person’s property will be divided among their relatives. Without a valid will, the state controls who receives what, regardless of the person’s…
-
A will is supposed to bring clarity and peace of mind after a person passes away. But sometimes, the process doesn’t go as smoothly as intended. In Illinois, a will can be contested if certain concerns arise about its validity or fairness. These disputes can lead to drawn-out court proceedings and strain family relationships. Understanding…
-
Estate planning often brings up tough questions. How do you protect your loved ones? What happens to your assets after you pass? In Illinois, one tool that many families consider is the revocable living trust. While this type of trust offers some clear advantages, it’s not the right fit for everyone. If you’re considering a…
-
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…
-
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…
-
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…
