Without a will in place, Illinois state law determines who receives your assets — not you. For many families, the default outcome isn’t what they would have chosen. A properly drafted will lets you make those decisions yourself, clearly and in writing.
Wills are also where you name guardians for minor children, specify how personal property should be divided, and leave instructions that help your family avoid unnecessary conflict or confusion during a difficult time.
If any of these apply to you, a will is worth having:
Even modest estates benefit from a will, especially if you have minor children or specific wishes about who receives certain items. Without one, Illinois law decides and the default isn’t always what you’d choose.
Your assets are distributed according to Illinois’s intestacy laws, which follow a fixed formula based on family relationships. This can lead to outcomes that don’t match your actual wishes.
We recommend reviewing your will after major life events such as marriage, divorce, new children or grandchildren, major asset changes, or a move. A quick check every few years is wise.
You can, but it’s risky. Illinois has specific legal requirements for a valid will, and DIY documents often contain ambiguities or omissions that cause problems later — sometimes invalidating the will entirely.
Not necessarily. Many people are well-served by a will alone. Trusts make sense in specific situations such as avoiding probate, providing for minor or special needs beneficiaries, or protecting assets. We’ll help you decide what fits during the consultation.
A will (last will and testament) governs what happens after you pass away. A living will is a healthcare directive that states your wishes about medical treatment if you’re incapacitated. Both are important, but they serve different purposes.
A complete estate plan often includes more than just a will. Explore the other foundational documents.
Schedule a consultation and we’ll walk through what makes sense for your situation.