Planning for the future is important. A will or trust ensures your assets go where you want after you’re gone. Crosby & Crosby Law helps families in Rockford, IL, create estate plans that give them peace of mind.
Do You Need a Will or a Trust?
Many people avoid estate planning. But having a plan in place in the form of a will or trust protects your loved ones and avoids legal issues later. You may need a will or trust if you:
- Own a home, property, or valuable assets
- Have children and want to name a guardian
- Want to avoid probate and make things easier for your family
- Have specific wishes for how your estate is handled
- Want to reduce estate taxes
Without a plan, the state decides who gets your assets. Don’t leave your family’s future to chance.
What’s the Difference Between a Will and a Trust?
A will is a legal document that outlines your final wishes, including:
- Who inherits your assets
- Guardianship for minor children
- Funeral and burial instructions
A trust allows you to manage and distribute your assets while avoiding probate. Benefits of a trust include:
- Faster distribution to beneficiaries
- More privacy than a will
- Potential tax savings
- Protection for minor children or family members with special needs
A living trust attorney in Rockford, IL, can help you decide what’s best for your situation.
Other Important Estate Planning Documents
- Living Will in Rockford – States your medical wishes if you can’t communicate.
- Power of Attorney – Names someone to handle financial or medical decisions if you’re unable.
- Beneficiary Designations – Ensures retirement accounts and life insurance go to the right people.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What happens if I don’t have a will or trust?
If you pass away without a will or trust, Illinois law will determine how your assets are distributed. This process, called intestate succession, may not align with your wishes. It can also create delays and added costs for your family. A will or trust ensures your assets go to the right people without unnecessary legal complications.
- Can I change my will or trust after it’s created?
Yes, you can. Life changes, such as marriage, divorce, having children, or acquiring new assets, may require updates to your estate plan. Our Rockford trust estate lawyers can help you revise your documents to reflect your current wishes.
- Do I need a lawyer to create a will or trust?
While DIY estate planning options exist, mistakes can make your will or trust invalid or lead to disputes. An experienced living trust attorney in Rockford, IL, ensures your documents are legally sound and meet your specific needs.
What Happens When You Contact Crosby & Crosby?
Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated. When you reach out to our Rockford trust estate lawyers, here’s what to expect:
- Initial Consultation – We’ll discuss your goals and concerns.
- Personalized Plan – We create a custom plan that fits your needs.
- Legal Preparation – We draft, review, and finalize all documents.
- Secure Your Future – You leave with a solid plan in place.
We guide you through each step, making sure everything is clear and simple.
Why Choose Crosby & Crosby Law?
To properly protect your estate, experience matters. Here’s why families in Rockford trust us:
- Local and Experienced – We understand Illinois estate laws.
- Personalized Service – Every client gets one-on-one attention.
- Clear, Simple Process – We make legal planning easy to understand.
- Comprehensive Protection – We cover wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and more.
Take the First Step – Call Us Today!
Don’t wait until it’s too late. Protect your assets and your loved ones with a solid estate plan. Our Rockford, Illinois trust estate lawyers are here to help.
Call Crosby & Crosby Law at 815-367-6432 to schedule your initial consultation today.
