Some people believe that estate planning is only for “wealthy” folks, but virtually everyone can benefit from having an estate plan of their own. One reason is that without your own plan, the state of Illinois will control how your assets are distributed after you pass away. The state will simply follow established guidelines for distributing assets. Of course, the government is not interested in making sure your wishes are carried out, minimizing costs or streamlining the asset distribution process.

Another reason to have your own plan is to make sure that a person of your own choosing, a person you can rely on, can make financial and medical decisions for you in the event of incapacity. Without an estate plan, someone will need to petition the court to control your assets and medical care. This can be a drawn out, costly and frustrating process. Even worse, the court might decide to let someone you would never have chosen yourself make these decisions for you. This is just some of what an estate plan can help you accomplish.

Accomplishing goals like these is not the result of simply filling out various legal forms. It is about close collaboration between you and our attorney. We will take the time to gain a thorough understanding of your needs and goals. Only then will we create and implement a customized plan to address every single one of them. Ozark Law Firm, LLC has extensive experience in Estate Planning, Probate and Trust Administration.