Estate Planning and Family Law Blog

An estate plan is not a one-time, set it and forget it event — it’s a living, breathing strategy. As your life changes, your Will or Trust must evolve too. This article highlights the most important life events that should prompt you to review and update your estate plan, and explains how FWLLS helps our clients keep their plans up to date without unnecessary costs.

Your estate plan is only as strong as your loved ones’ ability to quickly find, access and use the proper documents when needed. In Illinois, the law requires the original signed will — not a copy — for the court to acknowledge and honor your wishes. Even if you have a Trust, a “Pour-Over Will” is still necessary to tie up loose ends. In this Article, we'll address why proper planning, storage and clear communication are essential to protecting your family and your legacy.

Every parent (and grandparent) wants to provide for their kids. But when it comes to inheritance and beneficiary designations, leaving money directly to a child isn’t the gift it may seem. Legal rules can complicate even the best intentions, which may put your family in court, add financial burdens like guardianships and bonds, or even force your child to take full control of money before they’re ready. The good news? With the right planning, you can easily avoid all of that.

This Labor Day, honor your hard work by protecting it. Learn why rising costs make estate planning essential to ensure every dollar reaches your loved ones.

Back-to-school season isn’t just about supplies—it’s about safety and preparing our children for their future. Discover why naming legal guardians and creating a Children's Protection Plan is the most important to-do list item you can check off this season.

Your life is defined by so much more than a balance sheet. When you’re gone, your loved ones will be searching for memories and meaning — it's up to you to design the legacy you'll leave behind through stories, memories and life lessons that will shape future generations of your family. Rudolph Clausing's last note scribbled next to his hospital bed — "It has been such a good life," is more than a touching farewell and viral video — it’s a reminder to leave behind a lasting legacy to be remembered by. In this article, we explore how Life & Legacy Planning ensures your family will be left with a plan, guidance and memory of your life they deserve.

Inheriting a home isn’t as simple as keeping or selling it. From security risks and maintenance headaches to insurance gaps and legal obligations, managing an inherited property can be overwhelming. Here’s what you need to know—and how to protect your family from costly mistakes.

Priscilla Presley’s legal battle highlights how easily financial elder abuse can happen—even to the wealthy and well-advised. Here's how to protect yourself and your family.

To all the parrot heads out there, Jimmy Buffett’s $275 million estate plan included legal documents, but one missing ingredient that ultimately led to conflict and lawsuits for his wife and trusted advisor. Discover how proper planning and communication can help your family avoid the same fate.