Will attorney Plainfield IL for a will that says exactly what you mean
Why A Will Matters
A Last Will and Testament is how you decide who inherits, who is in charge, and how the process should run. Our will attorney Plainfield IL team prepares clear documents that reflect your wishes and reduce stress for family. The Law Offices of Jeffrey Sell serves Will, DuPage, Kane, and Cook Counties with practical guidance and plain English.
What Your Will Can Do
Your will appoints an executor, names guardians for minor children, and directs gifts from your home to heirlooms. It can set up testamentary trusts for young beneficiaries or special purposes and include simple funeral preferences. Even with a living trust, a pour over will is essential to catch any assets outside the trust.
How We Draft Your Will
We begin with a short discovery meeting about family, assets, and goals. Then we draft a customized will with precise Illinois language and schedule a supervised signing with two witnesses and a self proving affidavit. You leave with signed originals and clear instructions for safekeeping.
After You Sign
Keep the original in a safe place and make sure your executor knows how to access it. We can hold a copy and will help your executor use the will with the probate court when needed. If your plan includes a trust, we align titling and beneficiary designations to match.
When To Update
Review your will after life changes like marriage, divorce, a new child, a home sale, or every few years. We can amend with a codicil or restate with a new document, depending on scope. Updates are straightforward because we build on your existing plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a will valid in Illinois
The testator must be at least 18 and of sound mind and the will must be in writing and signed. Two adult witnesses who are not beneficiaries must watch you sign and sign themselves. We include a notarized self proving affidavit so the court can accept the will without calling witnesses later.
Who should I choose as executor
Choose someone organized, trustworthy, and willing to communicate with family. A spouse, adult child, or close friend are common choices and you should name a backup. Your executor can hire professionals like our firm and a CPA to help.
Does a will avoid probate
A will guides probate but does not bypass it. If probate is required based on assets or real estate, the court follows your will to appoint your executor and distribute property. To avoid probate, we often add a living trust or transfer on death tools.
Do I still need a will if I have a trust
Yes, a pour over will is the safety net for anything not titled to the trust. It can also name guardians for minor children, which a trust cannot do. Together they create a complete plan.
Where should I store my will
Use a fire rated home safe or a bank safe deposit box and tell your executor where it is. Keep copies with our office or your records for easy reference. Never mark up the original since writing on it can cause problems in court.
Meet the Team
Our attorneys
New York City, NY
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Phone:
45 Rockefeller Plaza, Floor 20
New York, NY 10111
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Office
Phone:
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Valencia, Spain 46008