Chicagoland Law Blog
What family dynamics can affect your estate plan?
When it comes to an estate plan, everyone needs one. Unfortunately, as you plan your estate, there may be different family dynamics that complicate your final plan. There are ways to prepare for complex dynamics, however. Forbes explains how to deal with certain...
Understanding Illinois’ ignition interlock device laws
Drinking and driving bring substantial penalties, and even Illinois’ first-time offenders should expect to see their lives change a good deal in the aftermath of a conviction. Depending on the details surrounding your arrest for driving under the influence, you may...
Is ketamine illegal?
Ketamine is a Schedule III controlled substance because it has some medically accepted uses but also has some potential for abuse and dependence, particularly psychological dependence. You may receive ketamine from a doctor if he or she needs to anesthetize you for...
What is the Illinois Human Rights Act?
The Illinois Human Rights Act prohibits any discriminatory practices when it comes to real estate transactions. This can include the refusal to rent or sell properties based on certain factors. Additionally, the Act protects against discriminatory terms or conditions...
Who is responsible for the debts of a deceased relative?
Following the death of a loved one, debt collection calls can add insult to injury. Not only must you be reminded of your loved one’s passing but also, you must deal with the stress of trying to figure out how to pay off a debt you did not plan for … Or do you?...
How do you avoid probate using a small estate affidavit in Illinois?
When you do not create an adequate estate plan, your property may have to go through the probate process once you die. But what can you do to avoid this lengthy and expensive process? There are several ways you can choose to avoid probate. One of the methods is by...
When is self-defense justified?
You have probably heard people in Oswego cite self-defense as a reason why they acted violently towards another. While such claims may often be met with skepticism, it should be recognized that there may indeed be situations where you feel threatened and the...
Rare condition linked to false DUI arrests
One essential tenet of the United States criminal justice system is that people arrested for any time of crime are to be treated as though they are innocent until or unless they are proven to be guilty. This core belief extends to people arrested for and charged with...
A quick homeowner’s overview of mechanic’s liens
First established in 1825, the Mechanic's Lien Act helps to ensure that construction and remodeling contractors receive the payment due for their products and services. This law states that a contractor, subcontractor or supplier may file a lien against a property if...
What should I know about the Secure Act?
When planning your estate in Illinois, you likely included provisions for how you want your qualified retirement accounts handled. These include your 401k. A recent law passed at the federal level could impact your plans in a negative way. MarketWatch explains that...
