Naperville Will Lawyers
Last updated on May 29, 2025
That depends on who you want to make decisions about your money and your property. If you want the government to make those decisions for you, feel free to skip making a will. If that doesn’t appeal to you, it is in your best interest to make sure you have a will.
At Blacha Law Office, LLC, we can help you protect your assets and property, ensuring your estate goes to benefit your family members, your heirs and causes you hold dear. From creating your will to building a comprehensive estate plan, you can rely on our firm to make sure your wishes form the basis for what happens to your estate once you die. Individuals and couples in Naperville, Joliet and surrounding areas of Illinois have trusted us to protect what matters most to them, and we look forward to you joining their ranks.
What Is A Will?
A will allows individuals to dictate their final wishes to their family and loved ones after they pass. Typically, people will incorporate how they would like their personal property to be divided, as well as other elements such as guardianship, if minor children are involved. In terms of asset division, individuals will commonly include real estate, investments, vehicles, bank accounts, and other personal belongings in their will.
What Does A Will Accomplish?
A will can act as your voice when you are gone, ensuring your wishes are carried out. By drafting a will, you can determine who should receive your assets and when they should receive them. Your will can also name a person whom you trust to serve as the administrator or executor of your estate. If you have minor children, your will can name the person you and your spouse would want to serve as their guardian if you and your spouse should both die before your children reach the age of 18.
Benefits Of Having A Will
Being proactive is a significant advantage when it comes to the estate planning process. By establishing a will, Illinois residents can receive a multitude of benefits, including:
- Ensuring their wishes are protected
- Avoiding probate
- Minimizing estate taxes
- Protecting minor children and dependents
- Reducing family conflicts and disputes
Wills can provide a sense of security for Illinois families and make them feel confident about their future. Furthermore, a will can help relatives and loved ones stay on the same page and know what to expect going forward.
Understanding The Different Types Of Wills In Illinois
When contemplating the estate planning process and creating a will, one of the first decisions that an individual will need to make is determining what type of will they would like to construct. The most common types of wills include:
- Simple wills: Simple wills are used to relay how a person wants their assets to be divided and who they wish to inherit the property. This is the most basic form of will and suitable for people with less complex estates.
- Testamentary trusts: A testamentary trust is generally included in an individual’s will and goes into effect immediately upon their passing. In the last will, a trustee will be named and this person will oversee the distribution of all assets included in the trust.
- Living wills: A living will, sometimes referred to as an advanced directive, gives individuals the power to share their healthcare preferences with their loved ones if they become incapacitated and unable to make decisions on their own.
- Pour-over wills: A pour-over will can be used to ensure that no assets are left unprotected. Illinois residents can use a pour-over will to automatically place assets into a trust after they pass away.
With so many options available, understanding which type of will to choose can be challenging. Individuals should consider speaking with a legal professional to ensure they make the best decision for themselves, their family and their future.
Wills Can Be Customized To Your Unique Circumstances
No two families have the same assets or the same members. When creating a will, it is important to consult with a lawyer who will take the time to get to know you. A cookie-cutter estate plan that does not consider your unique situation can lead to unintended consequences. In some cases, your needs may be better served by a trust than a will.
Our firm has provided personal, attentive service to help families protect their assets and their beneficiaries for nearly 20 years. We also guide administrators of wills through the probate process.
Create Your Will With Confidence
We look forward to helping you create a will that provides you with peace of mind about the future. Call 630-283-1987 to schedule your free consultation. With offices in Naperville and Joliet, we serve clients throughout DuPage County and Will County.