What is the difference between a will and a trust?

A will directs how your assets are distributed after death and typically goes through probate. A living trust can hold assets during your lifetime and often allows those assets to pass to beneficiaries without probate. Many Illinois families use both, along with powers of attorney, depending on their goals and property.

How long does probate take in DuPage County?

Probate timelines vary based on the estate's complexity, creditor claims, and court scheduling. Some matters resolve in several months; others take longer. We help families understand Illinois probate steps and what to expect for their specific situation.

How much does a flat-fee will cost?

Estate planning fees are flat and based on the engagement—a simple will, a trust, or a package that includes powers of attorney and healthcare directives. We quote that fee before drafting begins. Contact us at (847) 524-1215 to describe what you need.

Do I need powers of attorney if I already have a will?

Yes, in most cases. A will takes effect after death. Financial and healthcare powers of attorney authorize someone you trust to act if you become incapacitated during your lifetime. We commonly prepare these documents together with your will or trust.

Serving Roselle, Schaumburg & DuPage County

(847) 524-1215

Practice Area

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning for Illinois Families

Protect your home, savings, and loved ones with an estate plan drafted for Illinois law. Guthrie & Brady Law prepares wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives with flat fees disclosed upfront.

Request a Flat-Fee Quote (847) 524-1215

Estate planning attorney for wills, trusts, and probate in Roselle, Illinois

Estate planning is not only for the wealthy. If you own a home in Roselle, Schaumburg, or elsewhere in DuPage or Cook County, a valid will or trust helps your family avoid unnecessary confusion and delay. We explain options in plain language and draft documents that reflect your wishes.

Many clients come to us after a marriage, birth, home purchase, or retirement—life events that make an outdated plan risky. Others need powers of attorney and healthcare directives so trusted people can act if they become unable to manage finances or medical decisions.

Mary Brady and our team take time to understand what matters most to you. You receive clear documents, a flat fee quote before drafting begins, and guidance on signing and storing your estate plan properly.

What we handle

Last will & testament
Trusts & estates
Power of attorney
Healthcare directives
Estate planning packages
Probate guidance

How to set up a will or trust in Illinois

A practical overview of how Guthrie & Brady Law helps Illinois clients create wills, trusts, and related estate planning documents.

Step 1
Consultation and goals
We discuss your family, assets, and priorities—who should inherit, who should make decisions, and whether a will or trust better fits your situation.
Step 2
Flat fee quote
Before drafting begins, we quote a flat fee based on your engagement type—such as a will, trust, or full estate-planning package—so there are no billing surprises.
Step 3
Document drafting
We prepare your will, trust, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives under Illinois law and review drafts with you until the plan matches your intent.
Step 4
Signing and next steps
We guide proper execution formalities, explain how to store originals, and outline when to update your plan after major life changes.

FAQ

Questions about wills & trusts

Straight answers for clients comparing attorneys and preparing for their matter.

Ready to talk about wills & trusts?

Contact Guthrie & Brady Law for a flat-fee quote and clear next steps.

Wills, Trusts & Estate Planning for Illinois Families

What we handle

How to set up a will or trust in Illinois

Consultation and goals

Flat fee quote

Document drafting

Signing and next steps