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Chicago Probate Attorneys | Probate Litigation Lawyers, Chicago

Experiencing probate complexities in Chicago? Our probate attorney in Chicago can help you navigate legal challenges, ensuring your rights and inheritance are safeguarded during the emotionally taxing probate process.
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Smiling womanAttorney Kevin O'Flaherty

"Kevin was extremely professional, responsive and knowledgeable when I came to him for help. I would definitely recommend O'Flaherty Law!"

Top 3 Qualities to look for in Your Attorney

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We believe your attorney should not speak in legalese

Finding an attorney who is a “real person” can be difficult. Many attorneys surround themselves almost exclusively with other attorneys and are accustomed to speaking in ivory tower legalese.  You should be able to connect with your attorney on a personal level, and he or she should speak to you in plain language that you can understand.  You will be working very closely with this person on issues that are very important to you. It is important that he or she be down-to-earth and someone that you connect with.

We believe your attorney should be accessible

The most common complaint that clients have of their attorneys is that the attorney is unreachable, does not communicate with them regularly, or does not promptly return your calls.  Your attorney should reach out to you about your case regularly and respond within 24 hours to calls and e-mails.  An open line of communication between you and your attorney is essential to building trust.

Learn how we service your area through our Remote Location Approach.

We believe your attorney should be realistic with you about costs and outcomes

Your attorney’s goal should not be to win at all costs.  Rather, it should be to achieve a favorable outcome for you as efficiently as possible.  It is important that your attorney set realistic expectations at the outset as to the costs you should expect, the concerns that the attorney has about the outcome of your case, and the length of time that you should expect your case to take.

Regardless of the nature of your case, we have an experienced attorney who will focus on your individual needs. Our team of attorneys works closely together, bringing each of their different fields of experience to bear in order to optimize our client care.

Client Testimonials

Christi M.

Kevin's firm handled setting up my will and trust recently. They took something that seemed intimidating and made it easy to understand. I've also referred a couple clients to Kevin - he's trustworthy, approachable and very fairly priced.

Marvin

"I've used Kevin and his firm's services since 2011. He gave undivided attention to my cases, advised me on different options and..."

Rachel B.

"Kevin was extremely professional, responsive and knowledgeable when I came to him for help. I would definitely recommend O'Flaherty Law!"

About Chicago Probate Attorneys:

Navigating Probate with a Chicago Probate Lawyer

Probate can be a daunting process, especially during a time of loss. A Chicago probate lawyer plays a crucial role in guiding you through these legal intricacies. Whether it's contesting a will's validity or handling estate disputes, your probate lawyer will help clarify the legal grounds and strategies, ensuring your interests are represented effectively.

The Role of a Chicago Probate Attorney in Estate Disputes

The emotional toll of losing a loved one can cloud judgment, making estate disputes even more challenging. A Chicago probate attorney provides the necessary clarity and support during these times. By entrusting your legal concerns to them, you can focus on your family and healing, confident that your case is in capable hands. Their experience in estate litigation is invaluable in navigating the complexities of wills and probate law.

Streamlining the Process with Chicago Probate Lawyers

Probate, although often misunderstood, is a necessary process for asset distribution, whether a will is present or not. Chicago probate lawyers ensure that all legal requirements are met, from notifying heirs and creditors to managing estate assets. They strive to resolve conflicts efficiently, minimizing court involvement and streamlining the process for a quicker resolution. With their guidance, you can move through this challenging phase with confidence and peace of mind.

Expertise Best Child Support Lawyers in Chicago 201710 Best 2016 Client Satisfaction American Institute of Family Law AttorneysAvvo Clients' Choice 2016 DivorceRising Stars Kevin P. O'Flaherty SuperLawyers.com10 Best Law Firms 2018 Client Satisfaction American Institute of Family Legal Counsel Attorneys Estate Planning Law40 under forty

What to Expect From a Legal Consultation

The purpose of a consultation is to determine whether our firm is a good fit for your legal needs. Although we often discuss expected results and costs, our attorneys do not give legal advice unless and until you choose to retain us.

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Location

Office Address

155 N Wacker Dr STE 4250 Unit 30

Chicago, IL 60606

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Hours of Operation

Monday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Tuesday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Wednesday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Thursday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Friday
9:00am - 6:00pm
Saturday
Closed
Sunday
Closed

Attorneys

Meet the Owner

I am personally committed to ensuring that each one of our clients receives the highest level of client service from our team.  Our mission is to provide excellent legal work in a cost-effective manner while maintaining open lines of communication between our clients and their attorneys.  Many of our clients are going through difficult times in their lives when they reach out to us.  They should feel comfortable leaning on the experience and knowledge of our attorneys as their counselors and advocates.  We are here to help!

- Attorney Kevin O'Flaherty, Owner

Check Out Articles and Videos from our Chicago Probate Attorneys

The Chicago Probate Process

In this video, our Chicago probate attorneys explain how Chicago probate matters are court cases that probate courts ensure proper payments are made to heirs and creditors after someone passes away. If a probate matter is required, an attorney must take the proper steps to administer the estate. If there was a will left in place the probate process is slightly different than a probate matter without one.

To open a probate estate, the executor's attorney must file several documents to the probate court:

  • Petition to Admit Will to Probate and for Letters of Office 
  • Affidavit of Heirship 
  • Affidavit as to Copy of Will
  • Oath of Office
  • Surety Bond or Non-Surety Bond
  • Notice to Heirs and Legatees   
  • Publication Notice

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Avoiding Probate in Chicago

In this video, our Chicago probate attorneys explain why probate is bad for three reasons:

  1. Your loved ones cannot access to your assets for nearly a year until the probate case is completed;
  2. An estate will be significantly reduced by attorney fees and court costs. Your estate will typically spend 5% to 10% of the value of the estate on attorney fees alone; and 
  3. The administration of your estate will be significantly more difficult for your executor. He or she will spend a lot of time dealing with an attorney, preparing reports, and gathering information.

A common misconception is that a will allows your estate to avoid probate. Wills can ensure assets are distributed appropriately in a probate case, but an estate must enter probate with or without a will. A better option for individuals who own real estate or have a savings account is to use a revocable living trust either in place of or in conjunction with a will.

Probate can be avoided by utilizing a revocable living trust and transferring your real estate and savings accounts into it during your lifetime. A revocable living trust can own property and provides the creator complete control over the property owned by the trust during his or her lifetime, and specifies how the trust assets will be disbursed after the creator’s death.

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