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$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
No Paperwork, No Office Visits, Modern Estate Planning Made Simple
Online convenience meets traditional legal expertise
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A Modern, Client-First Approach to Estate Law
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.
Plan on Your Schedule: Online, Convenient, and Secure
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.
Budget with Confidence: Our All-Inclusive Flat Fees
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
"They handled my trust with care and explained every detail in plain language. I felt truly supported."
"The flat fee structure meant no surprises. Everything was explained clearly from start to finish."
"Stress-free experience from beginning to end. They answered every question patiently."
"Transparent pricing and exceptional service. Made estate planning feel approachable."
"I finally understand my estate plan thanks to their clear explanations. Highly professional."
"No hidden fees, no pressure. Just honest, helpful guidance throughout the entire process."
Foundational Estate Planning for Every Illinois Family
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.
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Fast start, lifetime security for those you love
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.
- Single adults often use foundational plans to make sure their medical preferences are respected and that trusted individuals are appointed to make decisions if needed. You can name someone to handle your finances or health care in case of incapacity, as well as designate where your assets should go.
- Couples, whether married or in long-term partnerships, can benefit from coordinated estate plans. In Illinois, spouses are entitled to certain rights, but that doesn't cover everything. A solid estate plan lets you decide how to distribute your assets, name alternates, and protect each other in the event of incapacity or death.
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.
Highly Recommended for Compassionate and Professional Probate Services
"I used Illinois estate law for a probate matter for my grandfather and was very impressed."
"They made complex things feel simple and gave me real peace of mind with my will and trust."
"Compassionate service during a difficult time. They handled everything professionally."
"Outstanding probate support. They kept me informed every step of the way."
"Finally found a firm that truly cares about their clients. Exceptional service."
"They simplified the entire probate process. Highly recommend their services."
Stay Connected with Your Secure Client Portal
Whether you're creating an estate plan or managing probate, our client portal keeps you informed and empowered every step of the way.
Everything You Need in One Place
Access your case information, communicate with your attorney, and manage documents from a single, secure platform designed specifically for estate planning and probate clients.
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Estate Planning Client
Will & Trust Package
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Track Your Matter Status
View real-time updates on your estate plan or probate case. Know exactly where you are in the process, what's been completed, and what's coming next.
- See document preparation progress
- Monitor court filing statuses
- Access completed documents anytime
Direct Attorney Communication
Have a question? Send a secure message directly to your attorney through the portal and receive prompt, professional responses.
- No more phone tag or email delays
- All conversations documented and saved
- Get answers without scheduling calls
Access 24/7
Your portal is available whenever you need it. Review documents, check status updates, and communicate with your attorney on your schedule.
- Login from any device, anywhere
- Perfect for busy schedules
- No office hours limitations
Bank-Level Security
Your sensitive information deserves the highest protection. Our portal uses industry-leading encryption to keep your documents and communications secure.
- End-to-end encryption
- HIPAA-compliant data storage
- Secure document sharing
Experience the Difference of Modern Legal Service
From estate planning to probate administration, our client portal ensures transparency, convenience, and peace of mind throughout your entire journey with Illinois Estate Law.
Chicago Estate Planning Attorney - Mary Liberty
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 support for probate 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.
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GET STARTED TODAYThe Estate Planning Decision You Won't Regret
"We were nervous about setting up a trust but they made it simple and stress free. Honest advice and no surprise fees."
"Great experience start to finish. Would highly recommend. Mary is prompt, courteous and professional."
"Mary was incredibly helpful in guiding us through the estate planning process. Her expertise put our minds at ease."
"Professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely caring. The flat-fee structure made budgeting simple."
"Handled our probate case with compassion and efficiency. Highly recommend Illinois Estate Law."
"Clear communication throughout the entire process. Mary made complex legal matters easy to understand."
Custom Wills and Trusts Tailored to Your Unique Needs
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:
- Minimizing estate taxes for larger estates
- Protecting assets for minor children or beneficiaries with financial challenges
- Planning for business succession or real estate holdings
- Structuring distributions to promote financial responsibility in beneficiaries
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:
- Naming backup guardians and executors
- Outlining personal property gifts that carry sentimental value
- Including charitable bequests or memorial wishes
- Coordinating with your trust to cover anything left outside of it
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:
- Protecting a family home
- Setting aside funds for future generations
- Reducing exposure to estate taxes or Medicaid spend-down rules
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:
- Provide for medical, recreational, or supplemental care
- Appoint trusted individuals to manage the trust
- Protect inheritances and legal settlements
- Offer lifelong support without government interference
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.
Personalized estate plans crafted with care
Act Now: Schedule Your Free Consultation Before Life Gets Busier
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Turn Overwhelming Moments into Manageable Steps
"They guided me through contesting a will. Professional, strong advocates who truly know their stuff."
"I felt overwhelmed handling my mother's estate, but they put my mind at ease completely."
"During the most difficult time, they provided steady guidance and genuine compassion."
"They turned a complicated situation into something manageable. Forever grateful."
"Patient, understanding, and thorough. They made sure I understood every detail."
"When I was lost in paperwork and grief, they stepped in and took charge professionally."
Essential Planning with Powers of Attorney and Healthcare Directives
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:
- Consent to or refuse medical treatments
- Make decisions about surgeries, medications, or procedures
- Coordinate with doctors and hospitals
- Decide on long-term care or hospice options
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:
- Resuscitation or ventilator use
- Tube feeding and hydration
- Pain management preferences
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.
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Guiding families through difficult times
Secure Your Family's Future from Home
Professional legal guidance without leaving your house.
Experienced Assistance in Illinois Probate Administration
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 involve no disputes over the will or the person serving as executor. Even so, there are important deadlines and filings to manage.
We assist with:
- Preparing and filing court documents
- Guiding executors through their legal duties
- Coordinating with heirs, creditors, and beneficiaries
- Handling tax filings and final distributions
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:
- A surviving spouse and children share the estate
- If there's no spouse or children, parents and siblings inherit
- More distant relatives may inherit if no immediate family survives
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:
- Publishing notice of probate in a local newspaper
- Reviewing and validating creditor claims
- Paying legitimate debts in the correct order
- Disputing or rejecting claims that seem invalid
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.
Partial Probate: Taking Over and Seeing It Through
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.
Start Your Estate Plan in Minutes: 100% Virtual Process
Fast start, lifetime security for those you love
Adult Guardianship
When a loved one can no longer make decisions for themselves due to illness, injury, or cognitive decline, adult guardianship provides a legal framework to protect their well-being. At Illinois Estate Law, we help families navigate this sensitive process with care and clarity.
Guardianship planning ensures that children, elderly parents, or incapacitated loved ones receive care from someone you trust. It allows you to make these important decisions proactively rather than leaving them to the courts. Establishing guardianship in advance brings clarity, protection, and peace of mind to your family's future.
Whether you need to establish guardianship of the person, guardianship of the estate, or both, our team will guide you through every step of the Illinois court process. We handle the legal complexities so you can focus on what matters most: caring for your loved one.
Legal Protection
Establish legal authority to make decisions for adults who can no longer manage their own affairs due to illness, injury, or disability.
Compassionate Care
Ensure your loved ones receive the care they deserve from someone they trust, rather than leaving these crucial decisions to the courts.
Court Navigation
We guide you through the Illinois guardianship process, handling petitions, hearings, and ongoing reporting requirements.
Family Peace of Mind
Proactive guardianship planning brings clarity and protection to your entire family, preventing disputes and uncertainty.
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Modern legal services from the comfort of home
No Paperwork, No Office Visits, Modern Estate Planning Made Simple
Online convenience meets traditional legal expertise
BOOK A CONSULTATIONWhy Choose Illinois Estate Law?
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.
Unlimited Access to Your Attorney, Always
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.
Proactive, Empathetic Guidance at Every Step
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.
A Modern Approach That Puts You First
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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Get answers to common questions about estate planning, probate, and our services.
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