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Probate, Estate Planning, Wills & Trusts Blog

You can always rely on the Zapolis & Associates, P.C. blog for enlightening legal content and helpful information. Our law office is committed to advising you on probate, real estate planning, trusts, wills and more. We serve the communities of Mokena, Illinois, Will County, Kankakee County, Cook County, and their surrounding areas. 

Our blog’s goal is to provide you with knowledge and helpful tips so you can confidently navigate the complex legal system. Our articles are meant to assist you in making wise choices as you proceed down your legal path, whether you’re looking for answers to legal problems or researching preventative alternatives.

Legal Blog

Understanding Wills and Trusts: Which One is Right for You?

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • September 1, 2024
Determining whether a will or trust is right for you is essential for making informed decisions that ensure your assets are managed and distributed according to your wishes. Learn everything you need to know about the key differences between wills and trusts, how each works, and the benefits they offer.

Considering trusts for estate planning

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • December 21, 2022
Estate planning can be a challenge for Illinois residents. People want to share their assets without burdening their loved ones with heavy estate taxes. Establishing a trust may offer benefits that will help meet your long-term goals. Comparing trusts and wills Most individuals think about wills when considering how to pass on their assets. After your death, this document goes… The post Considering trusts for estate planning first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

What are the most common reasons for contesting a will?

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • October 17, 2022
All Illinois residents should have a will as part of their estate planning efforts. Most people understand that there are certain situations that allow a will to be contested. These are the most common reasons for it. Undue influence A will can be contested when undue influence is a factor. This means that another person convinced the will’s creator, also… The post What are the most common reasons for contesting a will? first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

The probate process for those who pass away without a will

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • August 22, 2022
Dying intestate in Illinois means that any property left behind will be distributed in accordance with Illinois intestate succession laws. “Intestate” is the legal term for dying without a valid, enforceable will. Probate begins with the court appointing an administrator who is charged with the specific duties regarding property distribution. Claims against the estate are also prioritized with any remaining… The post The probate process for those who pass away without a will first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

Estate planning mistakes that could lead to litigation

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • June 17, 2022
Estate planning is something that all Illinois residents should do to prepare for the future. However, it’s easy to make certain mistakes that could later cost you. These are some of the most common ones. Not having one at all Perhaps the worst mistake you could make is not having an estate plan at all. It means that after you… The post Estate planning mistakes that could lead to litigation first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

Do you need to make changes to an estate plan?

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • April 19, 2022
It is in your best interest to start building an estate plan as soon as you become a legal adult. This can help to ensure that assets such as your Illinois home, car or business are taken care of after you pass away or if you become incapacitated. To further ensure that your estate plan meets your needs, it can… The post Do you need to make changes to an estate plan? first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

The biggest roles of executors

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • February 17, 2022
When someone passes away in Illinois, the estate may need to go through probate if it includes more than $100,000 in assets. This process can be complex, and it’s often best to have an executor to help manage everything. Who is an executor in estate administration? An executor is a person who’s appointed by the court to administer the estate… The post The biggest roles of executors first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

The executor’s role in the probate process

By Zapolis & Associates, P.C. • December 29, 2021
After a loved one passes away, someone must take on the role of executor of their estate. If the deceased left behind a will, that document will likely include the name of the person they designated to be the executor. This is an important job. The executor’s role is to guide the estate through probate court, settle its debts and… The post The executor’s role in the probate process first appeared on Zapolis & Associates, P.C..

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