Illinois Wills and Trusts Law Articles

When someone dies their estate enters probate. The decedent’s assets will be distributed based on whether a will exists or not. Estate probate cannot be put on hold indefinitely because a family member or potential legatee believes a will exists somewhere. There are deadlines associated with estate probate in Illinois. Extensions can be granted, but typically the process must have started within 30 to 45 days after death. If no will can be found the assets will be will spread evenly to the appropriate family members by the estate administrator assigned to the case.

When drafting a trust, choosing the right trustee is a very important decision. This individual or entity will be tasked with following the responsibilities set forth in the trust. These responsibilities can be as simple as making sure the estate’s assets are properly disbursed among the beneficiaries, or as complex as overseeing the continued financial success of stocks, assets, investments, etc. The trustee is obligated to carry out the terms of the trust in good faith and to the best of his or her abilities within reason. If the trustee makes informed decisions.

or many, estate planning is something you do so that when you’ve reached your golden years you can rest easy knowing your assets will be handled properly after you pass on. None of us wants to think of the “plan” in estate planning as something that will come to fruition in the next few months. But we can’t ignore what’s going on around us, especially those in the high risk categories including the elderly and those with multiple comorbidities.

When someone dies their estate enters probate. The decedent’s assets will be distributed based on whether a will exists or not. Estate probate cannot be put on hold indefinitely because a family member or potential legatee believes a will exists somewhere. There are deadlines associated with estate probate in Illinois. Extensions can be granted, but typically the process must have started within 30 to 45 days after death. If no will can be found the assets will be will spread evenly to the appropriate family members by the estate administrator assigned to the case.

When drafting a trust, choosing the right trustee is a very important decision. This individual or entity will be tasked with following the responsibilities set forth in the trust. These responsibilities can be as simple as making sure the estate’s assets are properly disbursed among the beneficiaries, or as complex as overseeing the continued financial success of stocks, assets, investments, etc. The trustee is obligated to carry out the terms of the trust in good faith and to the best of his or her abilities within reason. If the trustee makes informed decisions.

or many, estate planning is something you do so that when you’ve reached your golden years you can rest easy knowing your assets will be handled properly after you pass on. None of us wants to think of the “plan” in estate planning as something that will come to fruition in the next few months. But we can’t ignore what’s going on around us, especially those in the high risk categories including the elderly and those with multiple comorbidities.