How to Transfer Property Left to the Beneficiaries in an Estate Plan

After a loved one passes away, you must first determine whether you need to open a probate estate in order to transfer property to the heirs. A typical estate plan…
The Importance of Estate Planning for LGBTQ+ Couples

The 1960s in the United States has been described as one of the most divisive decades in history riddled with political movements, antiwar protests, and an emerging generational gap. While…
Introduction to Estate Planning With Sarah Buck

Loredana Lohan: My name is Loredana Lohan and I am a paralegal at Hays Firm LLC in Chicago, Illinois. Today I am joined with Ms. Sarah Buck who is…
What Happens If You Don’t Have an Estate Plan?

What Happens If You Don’t Have an Estate Plan? Estate plans are not just about wealth and luxurious possessions. They serve a much more fundamental purpose than many people realize….
10 Common Questions to Ask a Trust Attorney

10 Common Questions to Ask a Trust Attorney When it comes to estate planning, trusts provide a multitude of benefits, such as asset protection, probate avoidance, and the assurance of…
5 Ways Estate Planning Can Help You Avoid Probate

Avoiding probate can save you time and money while ensuring your final wishes are honored. When it comes to probating an estate, the process can be expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes…
Can Minors Receive an Inheritance in Chicago?

When a person dies, their heirs or beneficiaries may be a minor. However, minors are unable to open a bank account on their own.
Who can file a claim against an Executor?

Under Illinois law, an individual or business entity may file a lawsuit in probate proceeding. However, the individual or entity must have an actual legal interest in the probate estate in order to proceed with the lawsuit.
Probate: What is the Cost?

After a person dies, a probate estate may need to be opened to transfer property. This article will focus on the costs associated with opening a probate estate, transferring property, and closing a probate estate.
Do I need to file a will in Illinois?

When a loved one dies, the family and friends who are left behind are often confused about their next steps. Amidst their grief, survivors must navigate unknown territory.