Top-Rated Chicago Estate Lawyer
$15,000
Average Saved in Probate Costs
12-18 MONTHS
Saved From Estate Administration and Court Proceedings
0 FAMILY FEUDS
Conflicts Avoided Through Proper Planning
Estate planning isn’t just for older adults or those with large estates. It’s for everyone – young professionals, growing families, and retirees alike. It ensures your values are honored, the people you love are protected, and your finances stay clear of costly court delays
Even if you’re young, healthy, and just getting started, having a plan in place can make all the difference. It gives you control over who can make decisions if you’re ever unable to, it protects the people who matter to you, and it keeps your financial life from getting tangled in legal red tape later on.
Our experienced Chicago estate planning and probate attorney Mary Liberty can make this process simple, supportive, and built around your life. With Illinois Estate Law, you don’t have to rearrange your schedule or sit through stuffy office visits. At our firm, everything can be done virtually. You can complete everything securely from home and on your own time while also retaining the option to meet with your attorneys in-person. Our flat-fee pricing means you won’t be watching the clock or worrying about hidden charges, and you’ll have unlimited access to your attorney throughout the process.
Estate planning is your chance to protect what you’ve built and look out for the people you care about most. We’re here to help you create a thoughtful, legally sound plan that fits your goals, your values, and your life in Illinois.
Contact us today at (312) 373-0731 and take the first step toward peace of mind for you and for your family.
Secure Your Family's Future from Home
Professional legal guidance without leaving your house.
Quality Legal Guidance and Powerful Advocacy in Will Contests
They gave me total confidence that my estate plan was done right. Everything was
explained clearly and there were no hidden costs. So worth it!
Working with this team made a complicated estate matter feel straightforward. They explained everything patiently and kept me informed. I’m so grateful for their guidance and expertise.
Illinois Estate Law made the whole estate planning process so easy and stress-free. They explained everything clearly, answered all my questions, and offered a flat fee so I knew exactly what to expect.
I had a great experience working with Illinois Estate Law. They were incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and thorough in explaining all the options for my estate planning. The process felt much less…
I felt overwhelmed about handling my mother’s estate, but they put my mind at ease. Very
knowledgeable and supportive during an emotional time.
Illinois Estate Law made the entire estate planning process smooth and stress-free. Their team is knowledgeable, professional, and genuinely cares about clients’ needs.
Great experience start to finish. Would highly recommend. Mary is prompt, courteous and professional. Thankful I chose Illinois Estate Law.
Illinois Estate Law was amazing to work with! They made everything super easy to understand and took the stress out of estate planning. Flat fees, no surprises, and really friendly people. I’d absolutely…
I used Illinois estate law for a probate matter for my grandfather and was very impressed. Highly recommend.
We had an excellent experience working with Illinois Estate Law. Mary was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and efficient throughout the entire process. She made what could have been a …
No Paperwork, No Office Visits, Modern Estate Planning Made Simple
Online convenience meets traditional legal expertise
You deserve an estate planning experience that works around your life, not the other way around. At Illinois Estate Law, we’ve reimagined the process so you can feel confident, supported, and informed from start to finish. With digital tools and clear pricing, you stay in control while receiving experienced legal guidance tailored to Illinois law.
Estate planning should feel accessible, not overwhelming or inconvenient. That’s why we’ve built a system that lets you move at your own pace. Our firm offers a virtual setup that allows you to complete legal documents and forms online and through encrypted channels.
You’ll start with a personalized intake that gathers the essential details. From there, we meet virtually, review your goals, and prepare the right legal documents, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney that follow Illinois legal requirements.
Life can be busy, and we understand that. With a virtual model, you can plan after the kids are in bed or on your lunch break. Everything is encrypted and confidential, so your information stays safe while we deliver high-quality, legally sound work.
Legal costs often feel unpredictable. That’s why we’ve taken a different path, one where your estate plan comes with a flat fee and no surprise bills. From start to finish, you know exactly what to expect.
Our flat fees are based on the scope of your plan, not the hours on a clock. Whether you’re preparing a simple will or creating a trust-based plan with powers of attorney and healthcare directives, you’ll receive clear, upfront pricing before any work begins. There’s also no hourly billing, hidden charges, or fees for asking questions. We provide ongoing support throughout the process, including document revisions and Q&A.
For many Illinois families, the cost of estate planning is a major concern. We’ve made it easier to move forward with confidence, knowing your financial investment is fair and transparent. And if your situation changes down the line? We’re here to help with updates with consistent clarity around pricing. You shouldn’t have to jump through hoops to protect the people and future you care about most.
Contact us today at (312) 373-0731 and take that first step forward, on your terms.
Stress-Free and Transparent Estate Planning Experience
I’m so glad I chose Illinois Estate Law. They handled my trust with care and explained every detail in plain language. I felt truly supported.
Illinois Estate Law made the whole estate planning process so easy and stress-free. They explained everything clearly, answered all my questions, and offered a flat fee so I knew exactly what to expect.
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Putting your affairs in order doesn’t need to be overwhelming or reserved for later in life. In fact, having a foundational estate plan in place is one of the most thoughtful and proactive steps you can take for your family, no matter your age, income, or family structure. We can help you take this important step with clarity, comfort, and confidence, tailoring every part of the process to meet Illinois legal standards and your personal needs.
A will allows you to clearly state your wishes for how your property should be distributed when you’re gone. A valid will must be in writing, signed by a person at least 18 years old, with mental capacity, and witnessed by at least two individuals who are not beneficiaries. This document also gives you the power to name a guardian for your minor children and an executor to carry out your instructions.
If you pass away without a will in Illinois, your estate will be subject to the state’s intestate succession laws. That means your assets will be distributed according to a preset formula, which might not align with your true intentions. A will gives you a voice in decisions that would otherwise be left up to the court. It also helps avoid confusion or disputes among surviving loved ones.
A revocable living trust gives you more control, both during your lifetime and after. With this document, you transfer ownership of assets, like your home, bank accounts, or investments, into the trust, which you still manage while you’re alive. If you become incapacitated, your successor trustee steps in to manage things according to your instructions.
Illinois probate can be time-consuming and public. A revocable living trust allows your loved ones to bypass that process altogether for the assets inside the trust. It also allows for privacy and smoother administration, especially if you own property in more than one state.
Trusts are especially helpful if you have children from a previous marriage, a family member with special needs, or simply want to reduce the risk of conflict after you’re gone. And because the trust is revocable, you can change it at any time while you’re still living and competent.
Estate planning isn’t just for families with large estates. Whether you’re a single adult or part of a couple, your plan should reflect your values and life circumstances.
The goal here isn’t complexity. It’s to keep things simple and practical, so that your plan truly works for your life.
It’s easy to delay estate planning, especially when life is busy and the future feels far away. But even a basic plan gives you real control and peace of mind.
An estate plan isn’t just about what happens when you die; it’s about making sure your voice is heard if something unexpected happens while you’re living. Illness, accidents, or temporary incapacity can strike at any time. Without the right documents, your family may be left in the dark or forced into costly and stressful court proceedings.
We take pride in helping Illinois families build estate plans that feel personal, clear, and doable. Whether you’re starting from scratch or reviewing your current plan, we’re here to guide you through it step by step.
Call Illinois Estate Law at (312) 373-0731 and discover how your future can feel more secure with a plan that truly reflects you.
| Section Title | Key Features | Illinois-Specific Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Creating Your Foundational Will | States how property is distributed after death; allows naming guardians for minors; requires 2 witnesses | Without a will, estates follow Illinois intestate succession laws, which may not match personal wishes |
| Establishing a Revocable Living Trust | Transfers ownership of assets into a trust; avoids probate and maintains privacy; can be amended or revoked anytime | Valuable in Illinois to avoid time-consuming probate and for owning property across states |
| Simple Estate Plans for Individuals and Couples | Tailored for singles and couples; includes health care and financial powers of attorney; coordinates medical and asset decisions | Illinois law gives spouses certain rights, but estate plans ensure customized control and protection |
| Why Every Adult Needs a Basic Estate Plan | Covers incapacity as well as death; ensures medical and financial preferences are honored; provides peace of mind | Prevents loved ones from facing costly guardianship proceedings if no plan is in place |
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Highly Recommended for Compassionate and Professional Probate Services
This firm was exactly what I needed for my will and trust. They made complex things feel simple and gave me real peace of mind.
I used Illinois estate law for a probate matter for my grandfather and was very impressed. Highly recommend.
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No hourly billing for questions – ask anything, anytime
Mary Liberty is the Lead Attorney and Owner of Illinois Estate Law, where she focuses her practice on estate planning and probate. She works closely with individuals and families to create clear, customized legal plans that reflect their goals. From wills and trusts to powers of attorney and guardianship matters, Mary provides a thoughtful, client-first approach to every step of the process. Her practice includes full probate support for uncontested matters throughout the state of Illinois.
A graduate of Loyola University Chicago School of Law (2020, cum laude) and former Thomas More Merit Scholar, Mary brings both academic excellence and a strong service ethic to her legal work. She was named a 2025 and 2026 Rising Star by SuperLawyers, a recognition awarded to attorneys who show strong peer recognition and professional achievement. Mary offers modern, flat-fee estate planning and probate services throughout Illinois.
The Estate Planning Decision You Won't Regret
Great experience start to finish. Would highly recommend. Mary is prompt, courteous and professional. Thankful I chose Illinois Estate Law.
We were nervous about setting up a trust but they made it simple and stress free. Honest advice and no surprise fees. Very trustworthy team.
When your estate planning goals involve more than just the basics, you deserve legal solutions that reflect the full picture of your life. Every plan we draft is built with Illinois law and your goals in mind, so your intentions are clearly documented and legally sound.
Trusts can do far more than pass on assets. With the right planning, they can protect wealth across generations, provide tax benefits, and simplify future administration.
Revocable living trusts are commonly used in Illinois to avoid probate, maintain privacy, and allow for smooth asset transfer. But beyond that, advanced strategies, such as irrevocable trusts or generation-skipping trusts, may be right for you if you’re focused on long-term family stewardship or protecting assets from creditors or lawsuits.
We work closely with you to align your trust strategy with your goals. That could include:
Each of these approaches comes with specific legal requirements under Illinois trust law, and we guide you through what applies to your situation.
A will does more than state who inherits your property. It lets you make thoughtful decisions about guardianship, personal items, and how your estate should be handled. We help you go further by including custom provisions that match your unique family or asset structure.
This might include:
Every detail matters when it comes to making your wishes known. We take the time to make sure nothing is left to chance.
Certain trusts can be used to shield assets from future risks, including long-term care costs, lawsuits, or creditor claims.
You may consider irrevocable trusts, which remove assets from your personal ownership. These can be useful in protecting your wealth while still allowing for control through carefully written terms. Some common uses include:
These strategies require careful planning and must be tailored to fit both your financial goals and Illinois regulations. We help you weigh the pros and cons clearly.
If you have a loved one with a disability, you can protect their future without risking their access to public benefits. A Supplemental Needs Trust (SNT) allows you to set aside assets for their care, while preserving eligibility for programs like SSI or Medicaid.
Illinois recognizes both first-party and third-party SNTs, each with different rules and funding sources. These trusts must follow strict guidelines, especially when it comes to distributions, so they don’t inadvertently count as income or disqualify the beneficiary.
This type of planning allows you to:
Creating the right SNT means taking time to understand your loved one’s needs today and in the years to come. We’re here to guide that conversation thoughtfully and legally.
At Illinois Estate Law, we take pride in crafting custom estate plans that reflect your values, your family, and your vision for the future. Our estate planning attorney is ready to listen, plan, and support you every step of the way.
Call us today at (312) 373-0731 and start building a legacy with purpose.
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I felt overwhelmed about handling my mother’s estate, but they put my mind at ease. Very
knowledgeable and supportive during an emotional time.
I had to contest a will and they guided me through the litigation. Professional, strong advocates who truly know their stuff. Couldn’t have asked for better.
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There’s more to estate planning than deciding who inherits your belongings. It’s also about making sure someone you trust is there to step in if you ever need help managing your finances or making medical decisions. Our top-rated Chicago estate planning attorney Mary Liberty can help you put clear, legally sound documents in place so that your voice is heard, even in difficult or unexpected moments.
Medical decisions often arise when emotions are running high. A Power of Attorney for Healthcare allows you to appoint someone who knows your values and will speak for you if you can’t make those decisions yourself.
Under Illinois law, this document can let your agent:
Choosing the right person matters. It’s not just about legal authority but peace of mind knowing your healthcare wishes will be respected and communicated clearly.
A Living Will spells out what types of life-sustaining treatment you do or do not prefer if you are terminally ill and unable to express your preferences. It’s different from a healthcare power of attorney because it focuses specifically on end-of-life care.
In Illinois, this document is legally binding and must be signed and witnessed according to state law. It often addresses things like:
Having a living will helps take the burden off your family. They won’t have to guess what you would’ve wanted, because you’ve already made it clear.
Medical privacy laws are strict, and that’s a good thing. But in moments of crisis, those same rules can make it hard for loved ones to get the information they need.
That’s where a HIPAA authorization comes in. This document gives your chosen individuals access to your medical information without giving them decision-making authority. It’s a crucial tool that lets your family talk with your doctors, understand your condition, and be involved, even if they’re not your healthcare agent.
Illinois residents often overlook this step, but it plays a big role in giving your support system the tools they need to be effective and informed.
You’ve worked hard to build your life; now it’s time to protect your ability to make choices even if you can’t speak for yourself. At Illinois Estate Law, we guide you through creating powers of attorney and healthcare directives that feel clear, empowering, and uniquely yours.
Contact us today at (312) 373-0731 to start building a plan that protects your voice and supports the people who care about you most.
Stressful Legal Process Transformed into Smooth, Manageable Steps
Illinois Estate Law was amazing to work with! They made everything super easy to understand and took the stress out of estate planning. Flat fees, no surprises, and really friendly people. I’d absolutely…
Their team took time to understand my situation and customized everything to fit my family’s needs. I highly recommend them for wills and trusts.
Losing someone close to you is never easy. On top of the emotional weight, there are often legal steps that must be taken, especially if your loved one owned property or had assets in their name alone. The probate process in Illinois pertains to how a deceased person’s estate is legally settled. We work closely with families and executors to make each step less stressful and more manageable.
Most probate cases in Illinois are uncontested, meaning no one disputes the will or the person serving as executor. Even so, there are important deadlines and filings to manage.
We assist with:
Illinois courts expect timely and accurate submissions. Mistakes can lead to delays or even personal liability for the executor. Having a trusted legal partner helps you move forward with clarity and support.
If your loved one died without a will, Illinois’ intestate succession laws determine who inherits. This doesn’t mean the state takes everything, but it does follow a strict order of priority.
In general:
The court will appoint an administrator, often a family member, to handle the estate. That person has similar responsibilities to an executor, including notifying heirs, filing inventories, paying debts, and distributing assets. We help administrators through this process so that legal obligations are met and family dynamics are respected.
One key part of probate is dealing with what’s owed. In Illinois, creditors must be notified and given a window, typically six months from publication, to file claims against the estate.
Executors are responsible for:
You don’t have to pay estate debts out of your own pocket, but it’s important to handle this part properly. Creditors have rights, and heirs can’t receive their inheritance until the debts are resolved. We can guide you through this step to make sure everything is addressed legally and fairly.
Probate doesn’t have to feel like a maze. With steady guidance from a Chicago estate planning attorney at Illinois Estate Law, you can focus on honoring your loved one while we handle the legal work. If you’ve been named executor, or if you’re stepping in to help a family member through this process, let’s connect. We’re here to walk you through probate with compassion, transparency, and care.
Secure Your Family's Future from Home
Professional legal guidance without leaving your house.
Overwhelming Situation Made Simple with Professional Support
Best Law Service we’ve ever used can’t say enough good things. They set up our estate and succession plan for the future.
We had an excellent experience working with Illinois Estate Law. Mary was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and efficient throughout the entire process. She made what could have been a …
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If you’ve already started the probate process but feel stuck or frustrated with your current attorney, you’re not alone. Many people find themselves in this situation; cases drag on, unclear billing, or a lack of communication, leaving you with more questions than answers. You shouldn’t have to deal with that on top of managing the loss of a loved one.
This is where our partial probate services step in. If your estate is already in probate but you want a fresh start with a more responsive and transparent legal team, we can help. We can take over the case from your current attorney and complete the process with efficiency and clarity.
We know how frustrating it is to deal with hourly billing that seems to climb endlessly without clear updates on progress. That’s why we approach your case with a flat-fee structure. You’ll know exactly what to expect from the start, with no hidden fees or surprises. More importantly, we prioritize communication. You’ll always know where your case stands and what steps are coming next.
Our goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible for you. With the right legal help, you can avoid unnecessary delays and finally have the legal guidance you deserve.
If you’re ready to move forward with a skilled Chicago estate planning attorney who values your time, your trust, and your peace of mind, Illinois Estate Law is here for you. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward resolving your case with efficiency and confidence.
Much Less Intimidating Than Expected: Experienced Guidance with Peace of Mind
I had a great experience working with Illinois Estate Law. They were incredibly knowledgeable, patient, and thorough in explaining all the options for my estate planning. The process felt much less…
They helped settle a dispute between family members over an inheritance. It was handled professionally and with care for everyone involved.
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No Paperwork, No Office Visits, Modern Estate Planning Made Simple
Online convenience meets traditional legal expertise
Planning your estate shouldn’t feel like a burden. At Illinois Estate Law, we’ve designed a law firm that works the way your life does, efficiently, thoughtfully, and on your terms. We combine secure technology with warm, responsive service to create a legal experience that is human, not transactional. Our flat-fee pricing, virtual meetings, and attorney-led support are all part of making estate planning approachable and trustworthy for Illinois families like yours.
When legal questions come up, you shouldn’t have to watch the clock or worry about racking up fees. With us, you’ll always have direct access to your attorney without extra charges for emails, calls, or clarifications. You can ask follow-up questions without hesitation and receive timely updates and clear explanations. We make sure that your concerns are addressed promptly, never brushed aside.
We believe that relationships matter. You’re not just hiring a lawyer for documents. You’re building a partnership where communication is open and honest, every step of the way.
Estate planning involves personal decisions, and those deserve personal attention. From our first meeting to the final delivery of your signed documents, we’re here with proactive guidance that helps you feel informed, supported, and prepared.Estate planning involves personal decisions, and those deserve personal attention. From our first meeting to the final delivery of your signed documents, we’re here with proactive guidance that helps you feel informed, supported, and prepared.
Our team takes time to learn about your family, goals, and values, allowing us to identify what matters to you most and to recommend clear next steps. We work hard to anticipate future needs so your plan stays relevant, and if there are changes necessary due to the law .
Estate planning doesn’t have to feel old-fashioned or overwhelming. At Illinois Estate Law, we offer a refreshing alternative: virtual-available, flat-fee legal services rooted in clarity, care, and convenience. If you’re ready to work with a Chicago estate planning attorney who respects your time and listens to your needs, let’s talk. We’re ready when you are.
Every stage of life brings its own priorities, but one thing stays the same: the importance of being prepared. Estate planning gives you the power to make decisions with intention, instead of leaving them to chance or the courts. Proactive planning allows you to stop what the future might hold and start putting the right pieces in place now, so your loved ones aren’t left wondering later.
At Illinois Estate Law, we help you create a plan that reflects your values and goals with care, clarity, and respect. Our team takes the time to get to know you, offering a streamlined, virtual alternative and flat-fee pricing that keeps things simple and stress-free. If you’re ready to take that next step, we’re here to walk with you one decision at a time.
Contact us at (312) 373-0731 or use our online booking tool to schedule a consultation today.
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