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Recent blog posts
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The short answer is: It depends. Technically, you do not need a lawyer to file probate in Illinois. However, while it is possible to file for probate without legal assistance, most people find that having a probate lawyer is beneficial. Here’s why: Navigating the Complexities of Probate Probate can be a complicated process, especially if…
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How Much Does an Estate Have to be Worth to go to Probate in IL?
: How Much Does an Estate Have to be Worth to go to Probate in IL?Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person’s estate is administered and distributed according to their will or the laws of the state if there is no will. In Illinois, the probate process can seem overwhelming for families and loved ones left behind. One common question that often arises is: How much does…
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How to Protect Your Property With a Will in Illinois
: How to Protect Your Property With a Will in IllinoisA will is a crucial legal document that outlines your wishes for the distribution of your assets after your passing. In Illinois, a well-crafted will can provide peace of mind, protect your property, and ensure your legacy lives on. At Bielski Chapman, LTD., we understand the importance of estate planning and are here to guide…
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What do you do when you’ve lost a trust? You go back to basics: the elements of a trust, and when all else fails, probate! A Short Story About a Client Who Lost a Trust We had a case where a client’s mother (let’s call the mother Betty Smith) had deeded her home into trust…
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When my dad was diagnosed with Parkinson’s, my parents were living in my childhood home in Wilmette, and they had a modest life savings. In the course of sharing my dad’s diagnosis with friends and family, one thing they kept hearing was how expensive Long Term Care would be; the cost could completely drain their…
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Listing your Chicago property on Airbnb may seem lucrative, but if you’re not careful, it can cost you. Homeowners who want to list their property must be careful to avoid penalties by paying attention to the restrictions in the Chicago Shared Housing Ordinance and their building’s governing documents. The restrictions are noted below, along with…
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Estate Planning for Property Transfers to a Non-Citizen Spouse
: Estate Planning for Property Transfers to a Non-Citizen SpouseAs a general rule, spouses can transfer an unlimited amount of property to each other without paying tax on the transfer.[1] The rule includes transfers made upon death.[2] The so-called “unlimited marital deduction” delays taxation on the transfer of property until it is transferred out of the marital unit. The rule applies to US citizens as well…
