One of the easiest ways to avoid probate in Illinois is to not leave behind anything that needs to go through that process. Essentially, this means having all your assets set up to automatically transfer to another person upon your death. Many people use trusts or...
Experienced Representation In Business Law, Estate Planning And Tax Law
Godfrey Illinois Law Blog
Developing your small business through effective marketing
If you have recently launched your small business in Illinois, you may be well aware that maintaining any sort of company at all requires you to dedicate consistent time, effort and resources to achieve your initiatives and attain success. At Farrell, Hamilton &...
Estate planning and your beneficiaries
Setting up an estate plan can be a daunting task for all sorts of reasons. Some people, for example, may be unsure of which type of estate plan to choose. A trust may be ideal for some people (and there are various types of trusts, too), while a will may work out...
Estate Planning Q&A
Most individuals who have been able to enjoy success have at least heard of estate planning. You may have heard of the subject or even done some amount of personal research. Estate planning is a large subject that can feel impenetrable for those on the outside,...
What can I do when I face a business tax audit?
At one point, you may receive a letter from the IRS informing you of an audit on your Illinois business. This can be unnerving, but it does not have to be if you prepare for it. One thing to keep in mind, according to H&R Block, is the process can be lengthy...
Why ‘House Buyers of America’ is taking over
Over the years, the real estate industry in Illinois has ebbed and flowed like much of the other components of the economy. However, as of late, real estate all throughout the nation appears to be at an all-time high. Buyers and sellers are exploring new ways of...
Estate planning is not just for people with children
You have heard people discuss the importance of creating an estate plan, but you brush it aside because you do not yet have a family or dependents of any kind. In fact, you are doing relatively well for yourself and are confident in your ability to manage your own...
What should I fight for in a business negotiation?
You have just been presented with an invaluable opportunity to do business with some incredible companies in Illinois, but part of reaching an agreement with them requires you to negotiate. This aspect of business is truly an art and one that you have to develop and...
Effective CC&Rs require proper drafting and enforcement
Living in a covenanted community has its benefits. Gated or closed neighborhoods tend to be well-maintained, quieter and safer. Additionally, it’s easier for homeowners to retain or increase investments made in their properties. A homeowners’ association checks that...
When should you update an estate plan?
Once you’ve drafted a will or estate plan for the first time, the work doesn’t stop there. These important estate plans need to remain up-to-date with the changes in your life, the good and the bad. Be proactive in maintaining this information and prevent unnecessary...