Wills Attorney –
Protect Your Loved Ones
Why a Will Matters
Clarity today, fewer headaches tomorrow
As a will attorney, Scott Brower drafts last will and testament documents that reflect your wishes and comply with state law. A will directs who receives your assets, who serves as executor, and—if you have minor children—who would raise them. Without a valid will, state intestacy rules take over, which can leave unmarried partners or step-children out entirely and create delays. Scott Brower Law Offices helps families put a solid plan in writing as part of thoughtful
estate planning.
Why You Need a Will
A clear will means you—not the courts—decide who inherits, who cares for your kids, and who manages your estate. It also reduces family conflict because expectations are set in advance. While a will still moves through
Probate, a well-drafted document streamlines the process and helps your executor act quickly. Scott crafts wills that meet Illinois requirements and are ready for review in the courthouse if needed.
Our Will Drafting Services
Everything you need to make confident decisions
Scott Brower Law Offices guides you through every choice involved in drafting a will in Illinois:
- Inventory your assets so nothing important is missed.
- Choose primary and backup beneficiaries.
- Name an executor and alternates.
- Select guardians for minor children.
- Include specific gifts and personal items.
- Plan for debts, taxes, and how your executor should handle expenses.
Scott’s process is thorough and practical—he’ll raise “what if” scenarios you may not have considered, then prepare and supervise proper signing with required witnesses. You’ll leave with a will that fits your life and your family.
Keeping Your Will Updated
Life changes —
your will should, too
Review your will every few years or after major events like marriage, divorce, a new child, a home purchase, or a move between Illinois and Idaho. Scott offers quick reviews, amendments (codicils), or complete restatements. If you now own property in Idaho or another state, we’ll align your documents with local law and advise when separate state-specific tools make sense.
Will vs. Trust: Which Makes Sense for You?
Different tools,
often used together
A will directs distributions and guardianship but still goes through court, while a living trust can avoid court for assets placed in it. Many clients use both—a trust to manage assets and a “pour-over” will to capture anything left outside. During planning, Scott will help you decide when
Trusts
are the right fit and how they work with your will.
Illinois-Specific Notes
Valid, witnessed, and built for Illinois
Illinois does not recognize unwitnessed handwritten wills; two witnesses are required. Some smaller estates may use a Small Estate Affidavit, but a clear will still guides who should act and how. Using an Illinois will lawyer helps ensure the document is valid, practical, and ready for the realities of local court and financial institutions.
Questions We Hear
Straight Answers to Common Concerns
Do I really need a lawyer, or can I use an online form?
DIY forms miss nuances—like proper witnessing or whether a trust would better serve your family. An attorney ensures your will is valid and truly reflects your intentions.
What happens if I die without a will in Illinois?
State law decides. For example, if you’re married with children, assets are split between spouse and kids; unmarried partners and some step-children may receive nothing. A will prevents outcomes you didn’t intend.
How often should I update my will?
Every 3–5 years or after major life changes. Laws and family needs evolve—your documents should, too.
Next Steps:
Put Your Wishes in Writing
Protect your family’s future today
Whether you’re nearby or across state lines, Scott Brower Law Offices keeps the process clear and manageable. Meet in person or virtually—whatever works best—and we’ll create a will that reflects your goals, timeline, and the laws that apply where you live and own property.
