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What You Need To Know About Estate Planning And Probate In Illinois

If you are looking for an estate planning lawyer, you've come to the right place. In Illinois, as in other states, estate planning documents such as wills and trusts can capture your wishes in writing about how you want your assets to be distributed after your death. A health care directive and powers of attorney are also important, and they may be put to use while you are living.

Plan For Peace Of Mind Now And A Smooth Transition In The Future

People sometimes ask when they should put an estate plan in place. An adult of any age, with assets and/or family members or preferred beneficiaries, should have an up-to-date estate plan. From law offices in Arlington Heights, Barbara J. Bell, estate planning and probate attorney, is here to listen to your concerns and offer personalized guidance. She often meets with clients in office settings in Libertyville, Mundelein, Chicago and Palos Heights and other locations throughout the state.

  • She is prepared to help you design or revise your estate planning tools, such as:

  • A simple or complex will, properly signed and executed

  • One or more trusts, which may be incorporated into your will

  • Powers of attorney appropriate to your projected needs and circumstances

  • A health care directive that spells out your wishes before you need it regarding questions of resuscitation, life support and very specific issues that often come up in medical crises, like blood transfusions and feeding tubes

A Probate Law Attorney Offering Clear Guidance

If you are responsible for administering a family member's estate, the task can seem daunting. The sooner you enlist an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process, the greater reassurance you will have of successful fulfillment of your duties, including:

  • Inventorying assets

  • Notifying creditors and beneficiaries

  • Completing all probate court requirements

  • Distributing assets according to the decedent's wishes and in accordance with the law

If disputes or complications arise, attorney Barbara J. Bell's experience on your side can be greatly reassuring.

Guardianships

Illinois families and individuals often turn to Barbara J. Bell for guidance in another area of the law handled through the probate courts: guardianships for minors and vulnerable adults. Whether you need to petition for a guardianship or challenge another party's petition for guardianship of one of your loved ones, contact Barbara J. Bell, Attorney at Law.

For Personalized Service, Reach Out Directly To Barbara J. Bell, Attorney at Law

Some people put off consulting with an attorney for fear of racking up legal fees. In the areas of estate planning and probate, a little goes a long way. A solid estate plan is one of life's greatest bargains. A capable probate lawyer can actually save you time and money. Do not delay when it comes to these important legal matters. Call (847) 367-4253 or send an email request for a consultation through this website. You can expect a prompt response.