When a person passes away and leaves a trust, that trust typically becomes irrevocable. The trust needs to be managed by someone responsible for its administration (called a trustee). In Illinois, once the original grantor is deceased, the successor trustee takes over...
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lake forest illinois trusts and estates law blog
When does an estate owe income taxes?
The executor or personal representative of an estate can uphold an individual's last wishes. They can help protect the beneficiaries or heirs who might inherit from the estate. Their efforts can provide support and comfort to those who have recently lost a loved one....
How does an irrevocable trust work as part of an estate plan?
Estate planning is a challenging undertaking for some people, partially because they may not fully understand the options that are available for passing their assets down to their loved ones. While some people opt to do this in their will, they may also choose to use...
Can an estranged child challenge a will?
It is not unusual for families to drift apart. Life happens, differences grow, contact fades and sometimes relationships do not heal in time. When someone passes away and their will excludes an estranged child, it can raise deep questions. If you have found yourself...
Even family members can steal from the estate during probate
When a loved one passes away, families often come together to grieve, remember and support each other. But amid the sorrow, a legal process begins: the court-supervised distribution of a deceased person’s estate. While most expect this to be a smooth, respectful...
Have you chosen a guardian for your minor child?
If you have a minor child, it's crucial to choose a guardian for them - someone who will take care of them if you become incapacitated or die before your child becomes an adult. Naming a guardian can give you peace of mind. But who should you choose? The following are...


