The number of legal forms available on the internet has grown significantly in the past few years, and as a result more and more people are beginning to use them without fully understanding their force and effect. While many people may not realize it, there are risks associated with using these forms without the benefit of an attorney’s assistance. Estate Planning When our attorneys meet with clients and potential clients to discuss and prepare ... Read More
Another Estate Plan Tools To Avoid Probate: Transfer On Death Instrument For Residential Real Estate
The Illinois Residential Real Property Transfer Act (755 ILCS 27/1, et seq.) (the “Act”) allows an owner, or co-owners, to transfer Illinois residential real estate to one or more designated beneficiaries at the death of the owner, or, if there are more than one owner, at the death of the surviving owner. This post-death transfer is done by preparing and recording a Transfer on Death Instrument (“TOD Instrument”) during the owner's life. A TOD ... Read More
Clients’ Trust Distributes Almost $2 Million to Local and National Charities
Acting as Trustee for his Clients’ Trust, Partner Chris Spesia has distributed almost $2 million to local and national charities. Like many Joliet area residents, the Clients lived a life of hard work and good stewardship. In their later years, the Clients relied on the guidance of Spesia & Taylor’s now-deceased Senior Partner, Douglas Spesia, to craft their Estate Plan. Douglas Spesia recognized that the Clients, who did not have children, ... Read More
Power of Attorney for Property
You almost never know when you may become incapacitated before it happens. Be prepared to have your spouse or adult child manage your property matters in case you become incapacitated and cannot manage them yourself. You can appoint your spouse, son or daughter as an agent under the Power of Attorney for Property to handle your affairs, giving them authority to, for example, write and sign checks to pay bills, deal with brokerage accounts, access ... Read More
Power of Attorney for Health Care
What happens if you are incapacitated (or temporarily unconscious) and cannot make your health care decisions? These decisions range from a simple surgical procedure to life sustaining treatment such as life support, and are impossible to predict before an emergency arises. Be prepared for any situation by appointing your spouse, adult child, or other family member as your agent under the Power of Attorney for Health Care. Once appointed, your ... Read More
