Some of the most important legal decisions you will make in your life are those that involve your family. Whether you're newly married or going through a divorce, navigating child or pet custody issues, trying to adopt a child, or the legal guardian for a disabled adult, the Illinois laws that govern these sensitive issues are important to understand, but often complex and changing. Our family law resources will help you understand your basic rights and responsibilities under the law—and determine the next steps you need to take toward resolution—no matter the issue you are dealing with.
Consumer Guides
- How Does a Married Couple Incorporate Tax Planning into Their Estate Plan?
- Your Guide to Bankruptcy for Individuals
- Your Guide to Buying on Time
- Your Guide to Estate Planning
- Your Guide to a Living Trust
Videos
- What is a trust?
- What types of trusts are there?
- Is a trust private?
- Who creates a trust?
- Who benefits from a trust?
- Who manages a trust?
- Who controls the trust assets?
- How does a trust help avoid probate court?
- How can I avoid or reduce estate taxes using a trust?
- What if I can’t trust my beneficiaries with a large lump sum inheritance?
- How can I provide for my minor children after my death?
- What are the risks for minor children if I do not have a trust?
- How can I provide for a disabled family member after my death?
- What is a will?
- Do I still need a will if I don't have a lot of money?
- What if I don't have a will?
- What are heirs and legatees?
- What is probate?
- What is the probate process?
- How do I avoid probate?
- What is payable on death?
- Will my family have to pay death taxes?
- Do I need an estate plan?
- What is a small estate affidavit?
- What is a residential transfer on death instrument?
- What is joint tenancy?
- What is Power of Attorney?
- What is the consumer fraud act?
- ISBA Member Lawyer Discusses Bankruptcy Protection in Illinois
- ISBA Member Lawyer Discusses Estate Planning and Administration In Illinois