Estate Planning and Family Law Blog

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.

This Independence Day, reflect on how life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness begins with a plan — your plan — a declaration of your families independence. Learn how comprehensive estate planning through FWLLS can protect your legacy and empower your family for generations to come.

You wouldn’t leave your home unattended for years and expect it to feel comfortable, clean, and function as you'd wish when arriving back home. The same goes for your finances and your estate plan. Without regular maintenance and upkeep, they may fall into disarray and no longer serve their intended purpose.

Big tax changes may be on the horizon — and now is the time to prepare. Here’s how the proposed legislation could reshape bonus depreciation, child tax credits, SALT, and deductions for both businesses and individuals.

Gene Hackman’s estate is a high-profile reminder that even well-intended estate plans can go sideways. Learn how Illinois law could impact your own family if you and your spouse pass close in time—and what to do now to avoid a legal and emotional mess later.

Gen X is stuck in the middle of children and aging parents. However, retirement's not far off and you've got a lot on your plate. The key is to start planning for the future and educate yourself on these all-too-important issues to ensure you and the ones you're caring for are secure now and in the future.

The Death Tax Repeal Act of 2025 could eliminate the federal estate tax entirely — but what would that mean for your family? This article breaks down the potential benefits and risks of repeal, key planning opportunities before the 2026 exemption sunset, and why Illinois residents still need to watch the state estate tax closely. Regardless of whether you’re building wealth or preserving it, now is the time to revisit your plan and understand how these taxes and proposed modifications may impact your family.

If your bank savings exceed $250,000, you could be at risk of losing a portion of your hard-earned money if your bank fails. Learn how FDIC insurance really works, and discover smart, strategic ways to safeguard your entire financial legacy—including how estate planning and account titling can play a critical role in maximizing your protection.