Cary Wills & Trusts Attorneys
Helping McHenry & Kane Counties Create, Execute, & Modify Wills & Trusts
At Vaclavek Hartman Vaclavek, we work to simplify all things to do with wills and trusts. For decades, our team of experienced attorneys has been honored to guide numerous individuals and families through estate planning. We are committed to helping our clients create detailed plans that provide security and peace of mind, even in the toughest of times.
Do you need assistance creating a will or establishing trusts to pass assets to your loved ones? Are you searching for an attorney to assist you in updating your estate plan to match your family’s changes? Turn to our firm today. We offer free consultations, making it easy to learn about our services and how we can support you.
Call (815) 507-8887 or reach out online to speak with a highly experienced Cary wills and trusts attorney about your future.
What Is a Will & What Can You Put in One?
A will is a cornerstone of any estate plan. This legal document allows you to clearly state how your assets should be distributed after your passing. Without a valid will, your estate might be divided according to Illinois law, which may not align with your preferences or your family’s needs.
However, a will can be used for much more than property allocation. You can also include the following in your will:
- Guardianship designations for minor children so that if you are to pass away, they will be under the care of someone you trust
- Powers of attorney that grant reliable individuals the ability to make financial and healthcare decisions on your behalf
- Specific bequests to leave meaningful gifts to loved ones or charitable organizations
The Benefits of Trusts
Trusts are powerful tools for managing wealth during your lifetime and beyond. By creating a trust, you (the grantor) transfer assets to a third party (a trustee) to manage them for the benefit of your chosen beneficiaries.
One of the greatest advantages of trusts is their ability to keep assets out of probate. Probate can be a lengthy and expensive court process, but assets held in a trust typically bypass this step. In Illinois, assets given to beneficiaries in a will must first pass through probate.
Below are additional benefits of trusts:
- Asset protection - Trusts can shield your wealth from creditors and lawsuits
- Flexibility - You can set specific conditions for how and when your beneficiaries receive distributions from a trust
- Tax benefits - Placing assets in a trust can minimize estate and gift taxes
- Special needs planning - Trusts enable you to provide for beneficiaries with special needs while maintaining their eligibility for government benefits
- Privacy - Unlike wills, trusts are not subject to public record, providing a level of privacy for your beneficiaries
- Continuity - Trusts can provide ongoing management of assets after the grantor’s death or incapacity
Trusts come in many forms, including revocable living, irrevocable, and special needs trusts, among others. Our team can work closely with you to determine the best type for your situation and goals.
Wills & Trusts Can Be Complicated. Our Guidance Makes Them Simple.
Do not wait to prepare for your future. While creating and managing wills and trusts may seem overwhelming, these things can be manageable and straightforward with the help of our experienced team. No matter your estate planning needs, we welcome the opportunity to be by your side every step of the way.
Call (815) 507-8887 or connect with Vaclavek Hartman Vaclavek online to speak with one of our Cary wills and trusts attorneys. Virtual consultations are available for your convenience.