Estate Planning FAQs

1. What is estate planning?

   Estate planning is the process of arranging for the management and disposal of your assets during your life and after your death. It ensures your wishes are carried out, minimizes potential taxes, and can spare your family from costly and lengthy legal disputes.

2. What essential documents are in an estate plan?

   A comprehensive estate plan typically includes a Last Will and Testament, a Trust, a Durable Power of Attorney for financial matters, and an Advance Directive for Health Care (also known as a Living Will or Health Care Power of Attorney).

3. What is the difference between a will and a trust?

   A will is a legal document that outlines your wishes for asset distribution and guardianship of minor children after you die. It goes into effect upon your death and must go through a court process called probate. A trust can be used to manage and distribute assets during your lifetime and after death, and it typically allows your estate to avoid the probate process.

4. What happens if I die without a will?

   If you die without a will (known as dying “intestate”), Illinois state law will determine how your property is distributed. This may not align with your personal wishes and can lead to complications for your loved ones.

5. When should I update my estate plan?

   You should review your estate plan every 3-5 years or after any significant life event, such as a marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, a significant change in your financial situation, or a change in state laws.

Personal Injury FAQs

1. What types of cases does your firm handle?

   We handle a wide range of personal injury cases, including car and truck accidents, slip and fall incidents, medical malpractice, workplace accidents, and wrongful death claims.

2. Who is the lead attorney at your firm?

   Our founding attorney is James Hardemon, who has over 40 years of legal experience.

3. What is your fee structure?

   We operate on a “no fee unless we win” basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we successfully recover compensation for you.

4. Do you offer free consultations?

   Yes, we provide a free, no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and advise you on your legal options.

5. What areas do you serve?

   We proudly serve the greater Chicagoland area, including the city of Chicago and surrounding suburbs like Aurora, Joliet, and Naperville, as well as Cook, DuPage, Will, and Lake Counties.

6. Why do I need a personal injury attorney?

   An experienced attorney can level the playing field against insurance companies, accurately calculate the full value of your claim, and handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.

7. How will your firm maximize my compensation?

   With over 40 years of experience, we understand the tactics insurance companies use. We work to secure the best possible outcome through strategic settlement negotiations or by taking your case to trial.

8. What is your firm’s approach to client service?

   We take a client-centered approach, making your health and financial recovery our top priorities. We are committed to providing aggressive representation with compassionate guidance.

9. What experience does your firm have with local courts?

   Our firm has extensive experience with the courts and the legal landscape in Chicago and its surrounding suburbs.

10. How can I get in touch with your firm?

    You can call us now at 773-374-5288 or fill out the contact form on our website to send us an email.