5 Reasons Executors Need A Probate Lawyer
Serving as an executor or personal representative of an estate comes with significant responsibilities and potential legal liability. You’re tasked […]
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Providing Peace of Mind to Illinois Families
for Over 20 Years
Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys
We Help Families Protect Their Wealth And Preserve Their Relationships
Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys
We Will Hold Your Hands and Guide You Through Tough Times
Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys
We Make Sure You'll Feel Comfortable In Expressing Your Goals And Concerns
Illinois Estate Planning Attorneys
Estate Planning Attorneys Illinois
Our Practice Areas
Estate Planning
Estate Planning
Our Illinois estate planning attorneys understand that estate planning is not just for the wealthy. Even if you don’t own a home, you have things of value. All of these things together make up your estate. Estate Planning is what you do to make sure those valuables are treated the way you want them to be treated when you’re not there to make decisions about them.
Elder Law and Medicaid Planning
Elder Law and Medicaid Planning
We will aid with planning for Medicaid and all other elder-law related needs. Working closely with you to create an actionable plan that meets your needs, and explaining how laws and regulations pertain to your specific needs will help you be confident in making decisions related to applying and claiming Medicaid.
Probate and Trust Administration
Probate and Trust Administration
When a loved one passes away, our probate and trust administration attorneys Illinois knows that it’s often a very stressful and emotional time for the family and friends. We are one of the first phone calls made when one of our clients dies. We meet with the families and hold their hands through the process of either probate or trust administration.
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Reviews from Our Valued Clients
20+ Years of Experience of Protecting Our Clients’ Wealth
Why Choose Bott & Associates, Ltd.
Choosing the right estate planning attorney is one of the most important decisions you can make to protect your future and your family. At Bott & Associates, Ltd., we combine deep legal expertise with heartfelt care to give you more than just a plan, we give you lasting peace of mind.
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Offices in Rolling Meadows and Chicago
Serving All of Illinois
For over 20 years, we’ve been driven by our mission to provide peace of mind by growing and protecting your legacy. Our estate planning services are available to clients throughout Illinois, offering guidance and protection wherever you reside. From setting up wills and trusts to establishing powers of attorney and guardianship arrangements, we provide the experience and personal attention your future deserves.
Our main office in Rolling Meadows, IL, is open five days a week. We also offer a satellite office in Chicago, available by appointment only. Regardless of the location you choose, you’ll receive the same dedicated service and tailored estate planning solutions.
Schedule your consultation with a $500 fee today and take the first step toward achieving peace of mind, knowing that your legacy is protected.
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I thought my parent’s house is exempt from Medicaid, is that true?
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I have a child with downs syndrome, how can I protect her?
Is a will enough?
Frequently Asked Questions
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Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and distribution of your assets during your lifetime and after your death. It typically includes creating documents like wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and powers of attorney. Without a plan, state law will decide who inherits your assets and who can make decisions for you if you’re incapacitated. This situation can lead to unwanted outcomes, family disputes, and higher legal costs. A well-crafted estate plan makes sure that your wishes are carried out, provides financial security for your loved ones, and can minimize taxes and delays in transferring your legacy.
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A trust is a legal arrangement where you transfer assets to a trustee to manage on behalf of your chosen beneficiaries. Unlike a will, which only takes effect after you pass away and typically requires probate, a trust can go into effect immediately and allow assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without court involvement. Trusts offer privacy, flexibility, and potential tax advantages. They’re especially valuable for managing assets during incapacity, protecting beneficiaries from creditors, and providing long-term care for special needs family members. Many people use trusts alongside wills for a complete estate planning strategy.
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A will is essential for making your wishes legally binding. It allows you to decide who inherits your assets, name guardians for minor children, and appoint an executor to carry out your instructions. If you die without a will, known as dying “intestate”, Illinois law determines who receives your property. This process may not reflect your preferences and can result in complicated family disputes. Without a will, probate will still occur, but it will be guided by the court rather than your directions. Creating a will gives you control, reduces stress for your loved ones, and protects your legacy.
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Probate is a legal process where a court validates your will, settles debts, and oversees the distribution of your assets. While it offers fairness, probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and entirely public, meaning anyone can see details of your estate. In Illinois, probate often takes months or even years, depending on the complexity of the estate. The associated costs can significantly reduce the value of what you pass on. Many people choose strategies such as creating a revocable living trust, adding beneficiary designations, or holding assets jointly to avoid probate, thereby facilitating a faster and more private transfer of wealth.
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Medicaid planning helps individuals qualify for Medicaid’s long-term care benefits without depleting their life savings. Since Medicaid has strict income and asset limits, proactive strategies, such as establishing irrevocable trusts, converting countable assets into exempt ones, or transferring assets within the allowable timeframe, can protect a portion of your estate for your spouse or heirs. Proper planning is essential because improper transfers can lead to penalties or delays in eligibility. Working with our experienced estate planning attorney allows you to meet Medicaid’s requirements while safeguarding your legacy, so that you receive the care you need without sacrificing everything you’ve worked for.
Your partner in asset and legacy protection.
Join Us for a Free Seminar
Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or intimidating. Our free seminars are a welcoming space where you’ll learn the difference between wills and trusts, how to protect what matters most, and how to ensure your wishes are carried out with ease. Led by Attorney Maritess Bott and our caring team, these sessions give you practical tools and clarity so you can make informed decisions for yourself and your loved ones. Whether you’re starting fresh or updating an existing plan, you’ll leave feeling confident, supported, and ready to take the next step.
Estate Planning Blog
News & Updates
Stay informed with articles on protecting your assets, planning ahead, and creating lasting peace of mind.
What Is A Healthcare Power Of Attorney
A healthcare power of attorney is a legal document that authorizes someone you trust to make medical decisions on your […]
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What Is A Testamentary Trust
A testamentary trust is a trust created within your will that doesn’t exist until after your death. Unlike a living […]
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Key Documents Every Estate Plan Should Include
Creating a strong estate plan is one of the most important steps we can take to protect our assets, care […]
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Guardianship Help For Adult Children
When adult children are unable to manage their personal or financial affairs due to developmental disabilities, cognitive impairments, or serious […]
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