Monthly Archives: July 2013
Pot Trusts: More Equal Than Equal?
When I ask parents of young children how they want to divide their estate among their children, the answer is usually “equally”. Sounds fair. In most cases, we desire to treat our children equally. But, particularly for young families, if you either fail to plan or if you only create a simple “upon my… Read More »
Free New Cook County Recorder of Deeds Property Fraud Alert System
The Office of the Cook County Recorder of Deeds has recently launched a new initiative aimed at helping homeowners discover and combat property and recording fraud. Fraudsters filing forged documents (say that 5 times fast) against a homeowner’s property has become a white-collar crime of choice. In many instances, the homeowner might not learn… Read More »
Illinois Attorney Kathleen Zellner Wins New Hearing for Wrongfully Convicted Missouri Man
Today’s post does not involve trusts or estates, but instead highlights the tremendous work of a prominent local Illinois attorney, Kathleen Zellner. Oak Brook-based Zellner represents Ryan Ferguson, a Missouri man who was convicted in 2005 for the 2001 murder of Columbia Tribune sports editor, Kent Heitholt. Zellner was admitted pro hac vice (for this… Read More »
Textbooks, a Micro-Fridge and…Powers of Attorney: Estate Planning Before Heading off to College
All adults should strongly consider creating Powers of Attorney for Health Care and Property. Young adults are no exception. While parents find it easy to communicate with physicians, health care providers and educators for their minor children, when a child turns 18 things change. At 18, minors become adults in the eyes of the… Read More »
Illinois Probate: What are “Letters of Office”?
I frequently receive phone calls that start something like: “My dad died and I’m executor in the Will. I’m trying to collect his checking account, but his bank said I need to have an attorney get me letters of office. Is that a letter you can write for me?” Open Probate = Letters of… Read More »
Happy July 4th: Estate Planning, American Revolution Style
Happy Independence Day from the Law Offices of Robert H. Glorch! Whether you’re traveling, barbecuing or attending a festival or parade, we wish you a relaxing, happy and safe holiday weekend. When we think of the American Revolution we think of freedom. At it’s heart, estate planning — managing and disposing of your property… Read More »
Tablet Will: Don’t Try This at Home (or in Illinois)
In what appears to be a case of first impression (possibly anywhere), an Ohio probate court judge recently ruled that a Will created by a dying man on a Samsung Galaxy tablet computer could be admitted to probate in Ohio as a valid Will. Javier Castro, who had refused a blood transfusion due to… Read More »