Wills and Trusts in Illinois: Understanding the Key Differences and Why Both Matter
Most Illinois Families Ask the Same Question When people begin estate planning in Illinois, one of the first questions they ask is: “Do I need a Will or a Trust?” It’s a fair question — and a common source of confusion. The truth is that both wills and trusts are useful, but they serve very […]
The Core Tools of an Illinois Estate Plan — and How They Work Together
The Core Tools of an Illinois Estate Plan If you’ve started thinking about your estate plan, you’ve probably heard about wills, trusts, and powers of attorney — but understanding how these tools actually work together is where real protection begins. At Chosen Estate Planning, we often explain it this way: estate planning isn’t about one […]
Avoiding Probate in Illinois: Smart Strategies for Every Family
Avoiding Probate in Illinois: Smart Strategies for Every Family When most people start thinking about estate planning, one of the first questions they ask is: “How do I keep my family out of probate court?” It’s a fair question. Probate in Illinois isn’t always catastrophic, but it’s rarely efficient — and it can expose your […]
What Happens If You Die Without an Estate Plan in Illinois
It’s one of those questions most people don’t like to think about — “What happens if I die without a plan?” But understanding the answer can be the difference between a smooth transition for your loved ones and months (or even years) of confusion, conflict, and court involvement. At Chosen Estate Planning, we’ve seen how […]
Estate Planning for Blended Families: How to Protect Everyone You Love
Modern families don’t always fit traditional molds — and that’s a good thing. Second marriages, stepchildren, co-parenting, and chosen families reflect the way people truly live and love today. But when it comes to estate planning, those same dynamics can introduce unique challenges. Without clear legal direction, Illinois law may distribute your assets in ways […]
