Whether the estate is simple or complex, creating your will is a starting point for protecting both assets and heirs, as well as ensuring your final wishes are honored when the time comes. Here at Granholm & Gynac in Joliet, we will evaluate your entire estate and help you develop a legal and enforceable will. In addition, we can assist with implementing other proactive estate planning strategies, such as creating trusts and designating powers of attorney.
Creating Your Will In Illinois
By allowing our firm to guide you through the estate planning process, you can rest assured that we will craft your will in accordance with Illinois law. Our experienced attorneys will cover all the bases, even suggesting terms and conditions you may never have thought about. Here are just a few items that may be included in a will:
- Designating an executor who will be responsible for carrying out the terms of your will
- Naming primary and alternate beneficiaries and what they will inherit from your estate
- Providing specific directions on how your estate’s assets will be divided and disbursed
- Giving direction for business ventures and assets, such as passing ownership to a child
- Nominating guardianships for a minor or special needs child or disabled adult in your care
- Specifying how to settle debts, taxes, or expenses – such as what funds or bank account to use
- Deciding who will take custody of your pets and money to be provided for ongoing care
Once your will has been created, you need to keep it updated to reflect any changes in your life, such as acquiring or selling assets, getting divorced or remarried, and having children. At Granholm & Gynac in Joliet, we would be more than happy to sit down with you, review everything, and amend items on your will as needed.
Contesting A Will in Probate Court
No matter what side you’re on, Granholm & Gynac can provide the representation you need when a will is being contested. Specific situations that may warrant contesting the legitimacy of a will include:
- The testator (the person who created the will) was not of sound mind or may have been influenced and manipulated by another party at the time they created the will.
- The will is invalid because it was not signed and witnessed properly, does not include or adhere to stipulations set forth by Illinois laws, or there are signs of forgery, fraud, or unauthorized updates.
- Improper behavior on the part of the executor, such as not following through on his or her responsibilities, mismanaging the decedent’s money or other assets or failing to distribute assets in accordance with the will.
Because there is so much at stake in a will contest, it’s always best to have experienced legal counsel to protect your rights and advocate for your interests.