Estate planning attorney in Elmhurst and DuPage County
Estate planning is not just for the wealthy. It is for anyone who wants to keep control over their assets, healthcare decisions, and legacy. Without a proper plan, your loved ones could face unnecessary stress, legal complications, or financial burdens.
- More than just a will
- Illinois residents have many estate planning options, from trusts and land trusts to transfer on death instruments.
- DuPage and Cook County
- In-person consultations in Elmhurst, plus virtual appointments.
- First responder planning
- Plans coordinated with Illinois pension and line-of-duty benefits.
Comprehensive estate planning services
McGregor Dunn Law LLC prepares wills, trusts, and powers of attorney for families and individuals in Elmhurst, DuPage County, and Cook County. Anyone who owns a home, has children, or holds a retirement account can benefit from an estate plan that helps their family avoid the time and expense of Illinois probate.
Wills
A Last Will and Testament is the basic building block of an estate plan. It allows you to:
- Designate beneficiaries who will inherit your assets.
- Appoint a guardian to care for your minor children.
- Name an executor to manage your final affairs.
Revocable Living Trusts
For many homeowners, a revocable living trust is a valuable tool. Unlike a will, a trust:
- Avoids probate, so your family can access assets without waiting months for court approval.
- Maintains privacy, since a will filed in probate becomes public record and a trust does not.
- Plans for incapacity, allowing a successor trustee to step in without a court-ordered guardianship.
Powers of Attorney
Estate planning is as much about life as about what happens after.
- Power of Attorney for Property designates someone to handle your finances, pay bills, and manage your business if you cannot.
- Power of Attorney for Health Care ensures a person you trust can make medical decisions on your behalf.
Advance Directives
A living will states your preferences regarding life-sustaining treatment, so your family is not left guessing during a crisis.
Transfer on Death Instruments
Pass your home directly to a beneficiary outside of probate while keeping full ownership during your lifetime.
Land Trusts
Hold title to real estate in a land trust for privacy and ease of transfer.
No will? Without one, Illinois intestacy laws decide who receives your property, which may not match your intentions.
Estate planning for Illinois first responders
We understand the unique risks faced by police officers, firefighters, and EMS professionals. You protect our community every day; we are here to protect your family.
- Pension coordinationCoordinating your estate plan with your Illinois pension benefits.
- Line-of-duty death benefitsUnderstanding how these benefits are structured to care for your beneficiaries.
- Flexible schedulingVirtual appointments and scheduling built around shift work.
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need an estate planning lawyer?
Illinois probate laws can be complex. Working with a local attorney helps ensure your documents comply with Illinois statutes and local court requirements, so your family does not run into small estate affidavit limits or a contested probate.
What is the difference between a will and a trust in Illinois?
A will tells the court what to do; a trust avoids the court altogether. A trust generally costs more to set up, but it can save your family significant time and legal fees after you pass away.
Can I update my existing estate plan?
Yes. Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or moving to Illinois from another state are all reasons to review and update your plan. We recommend a review every 3 to 5 years.
Do you offer virtual appointments?
Yes. We offer in-person consultations at our Elmhurst office and virtual appointments to fit your schedule.