Wills
A will is a legal document describing how a person wants his or her estate distributed after death. It also designates an executor to handle the estate. In Illinois a Will goes through the probate process after death if the estate exceeds $100,000.00.
Trusts
A trust is a legal arrangement in which a person gives fiduciary control of assets to another person or corporation, such as a bank, for the benefit of the beneficiaries of the trust. A self declaration of trust is a legal arrangement in which the individual making the trust acts as the trustee.
Probate
Probate is the legal process by which a court oversees the distribution of an estate, either with or without a Will. All assets titled in the individual’s name, without a beneficiary or joint tenant, must go through the probate process. An executor or administrator is appointed by the court and does not have any legal authority until appointed.
Estate Planning and Life Planning
Estate planning includes preparation of documents to prepare for distribution of an estate after death. Life planning includes preparation of documents to prepare for possible disability because of accident, sickness or other disability.
Guardianships
Guardianship is a legal relationship created by a court between a guardian and the disabled person, called the Ward. The guardian has a legal right and duty to care for the Ward. This may involve making personal decisions on his or her behalf, handling finances or both. A guardian of the person is named to make personal decisions and a guardian of the estate is named to handle finances. A guardian must be appointed by a judge in a court proceeding.
Powers of Attorney
Power of Attorney for health care is a legal document designating a person to make medical decisions for the person signing the power of attorney.
Power of Attorney for property is a legal document designating a person to handle financial matters for the person signing the power of attorney. There is no formal oversight of the agent named under the power of attorney.
Residential Real Estate
Residential real estate includes assistance with a sale or purchase real estate closing.
Trust Administration
Trust administration includes assistance with acting as trustee and carrying out the terms of the trust.
Medicaid Planning and Application for Nursing Home Residents and Financing Long Term Health Care
Medicaid is a program jointly funded by the states and the federal government, that reimburses medical providers, including nursing homes for providing care to qualifying people who cannot finance their own medical expenses. In Illinois the program is called Public Aid. The Law Office will assist with the Public Aid application and process.