Your Family Matters

Protecting Your Family And Your Assets

Hiring an attorney to prepare your estate plan can save your family stress and trouble later. It also provides the peace of mind of knowing that you did not overlook something important.

The attorneys at the Kerley & Talken PC craft estate plans to meet your goals. We will take the time to answer your questions about the documents that make up your estate plan so you can make informed decisions. From our law office in Springfield, we represent families of all income and assets levels in central Illinois.

Why You Need An Estate Plan – Not Just A Will

A last will and testament is the foundation of your estate plan. It allows you to determine not only who should receive your assets, but when. If you have minor children, your will can name a guardian who will take care of your children if both you and your spouse die. Your will should also name a trusted person who will carry out your wishes after you die.

However, a will does not do everything. To protect your family, your estate plan will need a will and supporting documents.

  • A power of attorney to name a trusted person to make decisions for you if you are incapacitated and cannot communicate. Without a power of attorney, your family may need to go through the cost and delay of a guardianship proceeding to act for you.
  • A health care directive, including a living will, to let family members and doctors know whether you want artificial life support such as feeding tubes when you are in a terminal condition with no hope of recovery.
  • A trust, if you have goals that cannot be accomplished with a will alone. For example, different types of trusts can be used to protect beneficiaries from issues such as bankruptcy, divorce and from themselves. A special needs trust can be used to provide assets to a disabled family member without making them ineligible for government assistance.

Estate planning attorneys are knowledgeable about current laws and regulations in drafting and executing estate plans so you can accomplish your goals and preserve your legacy.

Probate And Estate Administration Services

It’s a wise investment to hire an attorney when planning your own estate. But if you have been named an executor or personal administrator for someone else, working with a knowledgeable lawyer is crucial. In addition to crafting estate plans, our lawyers guide personal administrators through the Illinois probate process. We also handle litigated disputes such as will contests.

Talk To An Estate Planning Lawyer Today

We offer a free consultation to sit down with you and discuss estate planning, administration, probate or litigation. Call 217-814-0148 or complete our contact form to talk to a lawyer.