Last Will and Testament Attorneys in Libertyville

Lake County Will Preparation Lawyers

At Newland & Newland, LLP, we understand that you have worked hard to earn the property and assets that you own. Regardless of how big or how small your estate may be, it is important to you and your family, and it should be protected. As you look to the future, you must also decide what will happen to your assets when you are no longer around to manage them. Our attorneys have more than 60 years of combined experience assisting clients in Lake County and the surrounding areas with their estate planning concerns. We draft legally sound documents such as wills, trusts, living wills, powers of attorney, and others so that you can rest easy knowing that your family will be taken care of no matter what happens.

Recognizing the Need for a Will

In most situations, a solid estate plan is constructed around a foundation created in a will or trust. It is possible that you might need both a will and a trust, and our lawyers can help you decide if such is the case for you. There are several major differences between wills and trusts. The biggest difference is when each takes effect. A will has no bearing on your estate until your death, regardless of the provisions that you include in the document. A trust, by comparison, can become effective immediately upon its creation and funding, with certain provisions that might go into effect upon your death.

Through the terms of your will, you can clarify your wishes regarding your assets and property. You can also make arrangements for guardianship of your minor children or disabled adult dependents, as necessary. Your will can also be used to name an executor who will be responsible for managing your estate.

Will Preparation Services in Arlington Heights and North Chicago

While most people are familiar with the basic purpose of a will, relatively few know exactly where to begin in creating one. Attorney Stephen S. Newland and his experienced team can provide the help you need to get started. We will assist you in understanding the legal requirements that a will must meet to be valid, such as being signed and witnessed properly. Our team also has experience in the practice of Illinois probate law, and we are equipped to provide the guidance you need.

When you are creating your will, there are many things that you will need to consider. We will work with you in analyzing your situation so that you can make the best possible decisions regarding your assets and heirs. Our attorneys can offer direction as you think about factors such as:

• Your family's relationship and interpersonal dynamics;
• Minor children, disabled adult dependents, and other members of your household;
• Your acquired property, assets, and outstanding debts;
• Assets and children from a prior marriage;
• Business investments;
• Real estate holdings; and
• Philanthropic efforts and charitable giving.

In your will, you will also need to appoint someone to carry out your wishes and to manage your estate after your death. This person or entity is called an executor or a personal representative and is tasked with acting in the best interests of the estate according to the Illinois Probate Act (760 ILCS 5). We can help you select an executor that you can trust to protect your estate and the security of your loved ones.

Responsible Estate Planning Legal Counsel

Whether you are ready to start drafting your will or you have a will that requires an update, contact our office. We offer free, no-obligation consultations, so that you can get the answers to whatever questions you may have. Call 847-549-0000 for an appointment. With five convenient office locations, we serve clients in Libertyville, Vernon Hills, Lake Bluff, Grayslake, Lake County, and throughout Northern Illinois.