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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 Illinois
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 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 Illinois
When 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 Year
Spring 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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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…
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Navigating Family Disputes During Illinois Probate
: Navigating Family Disputes During Illinois Probate
When 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…
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Probate vs. Small Estate Administration in Illinois
: Probate vs. Small Estate Administration in Illinois
The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and the process of handling their estate can add to the emotional burden. In Illinois, there are two primary methods for managing an estate: probate and small estate administration. Both serve the purpose of distributing a deceased person’s assets, but they differ in terms of…
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Asset protection is often perceived as a concern for the wealthy or the elderly, but young adults in Illinois also have significant reasons to consider safeguarding their assets. Whether you’re just starting your career, building savings, or investing in your first home, understanding how to protect your assets can provide financial security and peace of…
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The loss of a loved one is a difficult time, and on top of emotional burdens, there are often legal matters to address. In Illinois, probate is the court process that oversees the administration of an estate, ensuring debts are settled and assets are distributed according to the deceased’s wishes (or by state law if…
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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…