Our Estate Planning Blog
Many families would rather avoid uncomfortable conversations, even when silence creates confusion and conflict later.
Not every asset belongs in a living trust, and placing the wrong property there can create unnecessary complications for heirs.
Technology can make estate planning more accessible. However, it cannot replace thoughtful legal judgment.
Congress enacted the One, Big, Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) in July 2025, and it reshaped the 2026 planning landscape. The most important takeaway is this:
Most people spend a lot of time planning for the financial side of retirement. However, once retired, there are a few estate planning tasks to do. Your life has likely changed since the first time your estate plan was done, says the article “5 Estate Planning Changes To Make After Retirement” from Go Banking Rates. Get ready for the next phase of your life with an update to your estate plan. This is especially true with the SECURE 2.0 Act measures coming into effect this year. Retirees need to address new rules regarding catch-up contributions, required minimum distributions (RMDs), Roth…
The portion the surviving spouse can claim depends on the circumstances.
The new tax law reshapes Roth conversion planning, with updated deductions and income rules that could work for—or against—you. Now is the time to review your strategy with your estate planning and tax advisors.
Families often assume that because their adult children get along, have good judgment, and respect one another, they will simply “figure things out” after their parents pass away. Unfortunately, this belief can lead to unnecessary conflict, financial imbalance, and legal problems—especially when a family business or farm is involved. As a will and trust lawyer in Naperville, I routinely see the consequences of failing to put a formal plan in place.
The holidays are a time for gratitude, good food, family traditions—and, occasionally, conversations everyone at the table tries very hard to avoid. If you’ve ever
Naperville families build full, active lives—travel, outdoor recreation, second homes, and shared experiences. Integrating these assets into your estate plan ensures the lifestyle you worked to create is preserved, protected, and passed on according to your wishes.
With proper planning, you can enjoy everything now while knowing that your family will be prepared later.