Comprehensive Estate Planning in Chicago
Estate planning is about more than just writing a will — it is about creating a comprehensive plan that protects your family, preserves your wealth, and ensures your wishes are carried out exactly as you intend. Attorney Brian Tierney takes a holistic approach to estate planning for Chicago-area families, considering your assets, family dynamics, tax implications, and long-term goals.
The Three Pillars of Your Estate Plan
A complete estate plan addresses three critical areas:
- Asset Distribution: What happens to your assets when you die — through a will, trust, or combination
- Incapacity Planning: Who makes financial and medical decisions if you become unable to do so
- Family Protection: Minimizing time, cost, and stress your family faces during transitions
Will-Based vs. Trust-Based Plans
For asset distribution, Brian helps you decide whether a will-based plan or a trust-based plan is right for your family. A will requires probate — a court-supervised process that takes 6 to 12 months in Illinois and makes your affairs public. A revocable living trust avoids probate entirely, keeps your affairs private, and allows immediate asset distribution. Attorney Tierney explains the benefits and costs of each approach and recommends the option that best fits your situation.
Incapacity Planning & Powers of Attorney
Brian prepares durable powers of attorney for property and healthcare that ensure someone you trust can manage your financial affairs and make medical decisions on your behalf. Without these documents, your family would need to petition the court for guardianship — a costly, time-consuming, and public process. He also prepares a living will communicating your end-of-life care wishes.
Beyond the Basics: Complete Protection
Attorney Tierney addresses often-overlooked aspects: beneficiary designation reviews for life insurance and retirement accounts, guardianship designations for minor children, Transfer on Death Instruments for real estate, land trusts for privacy, and business succession planning. His goal is to create a complete, integrated plan where every piece works together. Contact Brian today for a free estate planning consultation at his Chicago office near Midway Airport.