JOIN US FOR A FREE SEMINAR
Creating your estate plan, whether it’s a living trust or a will, can be a daunting task. Estate Planning addresses issues that are difficult to think about, such as death, incapacity, finances, and family dynamics. It can be easy to procrastinate, even though these issues may weigh heavily on your mind.
We invite you to attend one of our upcoming free in person Seminars so you can take the first step toward having peace of mind by creating (or updating) your estate plan. This is an educational seminar, where attorney Maritess Bott highlight some of the concerns that many families face and how an estate plan can help. The attorney also breaks down how wills and trusts differ, and some of the common estate planning pitfalls and how to avoid them.
Our goal is to provide you with the education you need to protect yourself and your family, and leave a legacy of peace. If you would like to set up a meeting to discuss your estate planning needs further, we offer all participants who complete the seminar a free, no obligation personal consultation with Maritess Bott.
At this Seminar, we will discuss several common issues and concerns, including:
- The advantages and disadvantages of wills, living trusts and probate
- Protecting your children’s inheritance from their future ex-spouses, lawsuits, and other claims
- Most living trusts fail; if you already have a trust find out what you can do to ensure that it will protect you and your loved ones
- How to preserve your nest egg for your family if you find yourself needing Long Term Care
- How to stay out of court and avoid the cost, time and stress that a conservatorship can bring if you become incapacitated
Schaumburg Estate Planning FAQs
Taking the time to prepare for the future with our Schaumburg, IL estate planning lawyer can bring peace of mind and protection for those you love. Planning for the future is important, especially for young families. Many parents assume estate planning is only for the wealthy or elderly, but that’s not the case. It provides clear instructions for how your family will be cared for if something unexpected happens. Without a plan, decisions about guardianship, finances, and medical care may be left to the courts.
What Happens If We Don’t Have An Estate Plan?
Without an estate plan, state laws determine how assets are distributed and who will care for minor children. This can lead to decisions that may not align with your wishes. Without a named guardian, the court will decide who raises your children. If there is no financial plan in place, your family may face unnecessary delays and expenses in accessing assets. By creating a plan, you take control of these important decisions instead of leaving them up to the legal system.
How Can Estate Planning Protect Our Children?
An estate plan allows parents to name a legal guardian, ensuring their children are raised by someone they trust. It also provides a way to manage finances for a child’s future, preventing funds from being mismanaged or distributed too soon. A trust can hold assets until a child reaches a responsible age, rather than giving them full control at 18. Without these protections, inheritance may not be used in the way parents intend.
Do We Need A Will Or A Trust?
A will is an essential part of estate planning, but a trust can provide additional benefits. A will directs how assets are distributed and names guardians for children. However, it must go through probate, which can be time-consuming and costly. According to our Schaumburg estate planning lawyer, a trust helps avoid probate by transferring assets directly to beneficiaries. Many young families choose to use both, combining the benefits of each to create a more comprehensive plan.
Who Should We Name As A Guardian?
Choosing a guardian is one of the most important decisions in estate planning. It should be someone who shares your values, can provide a stable home, and is willing to take on the responsibility. Many parents select close family members, but trusted friends can also be a good option. It’s important to have a conversation with the chosen guardian before making it official. You can also name a backup in case your first choice is unable to serve.
How Often Should We Update Our Estate Plan?
Life changes, and so should your estate plan. Major events such as having another child, buying a home, or changes in financial status may require updates. It’s a good idea to review your plan every few years to make sure it still aligns with your wishes. Without updates, outdated documents could lead to complications for your family.
Estate planning is an essential step in protecting your family’s future. By taking action now, you can provide clear instructions for your children’s care, financial security, and long-term stability. Our team at Bott & Associates, Ltd. has over twenty years of successful legal experience helping clients. Contact our Schaumburg estate planning lawyer today for a free consultation to discuss your options and create a plan that fits your family’s needs.
UPCOMING SEMINARS
August
Seminars:
08/20/2025 – 6 PM to 7 PM
08/21/2025 – 6 PM to 7 PM
Webinar:
08/26/2025 – 12 PM to 1 PM
November
Seminars:
11/05/2025 – 6 PM to 7 PM
11/06/2025 – 6 PM to 7 PM
Webinar:
11/11/2025 – 12 PM to 1 PM
We look forward to seeing you!
You must RSVP at
Please send an e-mail and we will send you the signup link or by calling (847) 818-9084
