Estate Administration Attorneys

Lawyers for Trust and Probate Administration

The period leading up to and following the death of a family member or a loved one is not easy, especially for those who have been appointed to serve as executors, trustees, guardians, and agents of the decedent. At Rolewick & Gutzke, P.C., we realize that even with a comprehensive estate plan in place, a number of considerations will need to be made, and many challenges may arise. Our experienced attorneys are equipped to help individuals and families as they navigate the often unfamiliar territory of estate administration.

Our law firm was founded in 1979 by David Rolewick with the mission of providing a full range of legal services to clients in Wheaton, DuPage County, and throughout Northern Illinois. Since then, we have helped hundreds of families manage the estates of their loved ones while protecting their best interests.

Probate and Estate Administration

When a person has been appointed the executor of a recently deceased loved one's estate, he or she will be expected to fulfill certain duties and obligations. It is his or her responsibility to ensure that the wishes of the decedent are carried out in accordance with an existing estate plan and all applicable laws. It is not uncommon to feel overwhelmed by such responsibility, but our attorneys can provide skilled guidance. Some executors may only require assistance with certain aspects of the administrative process, while others will need help from start to finish. We also provide services to help trustees appointed to manage property transferred into trusts of all types.

The process of probate, when necessary, can be challenging for those who are unfamiliar with such proceedings. During probate, the decedent's will must be validated by the court, and those with proper standing will have the opportunity to contest any questionable terms contained in it. We assist executors at every stage of the probate process, helping them carry out their duties including:

• Gathering necessary documents.
• Notifying heirs and beneficiaries.
• Valuation of property and assets.
• Communicating with potential creditors.
• Paying debts owed by the estate.
• Preparing federal and state estate tax returns.
• Distributing assets as directed by the decedent.

Lawyers for Trust and Probate Litigation

At Rolewick & Gutzke, P.C., we are also adept at handling issues of litigation in regard to a person's estate, including:

• Contested probate
• Contested estates
• Contested trusts
• Trust or estate administration
• Family conflicts

Most litigated concerns arise due to an heir or a person who expected to be an heir believing that he or she was treated unfairly by the terms of the estate plan. The terms of a will or trust may be challenged for a number of reasons, and if the case is not handled properly, years of family division could result.

Our attorneys are prepared to represent the interests of executors and trustees, as well those of beneficiaries, heirs, and other individuals with the standing to contest an estate plan. We understand that while many such issues can be resolved through amicable negotiation, litigation is sometimes necessary to reach a resolution.

Call 630-653-1577 Today

For more information about estate administration or litigation concerns, contact our office in Wheaton, Illinois. Call 630-653-1577 for a confidential consultation at Rolewick & Gutzke, P.C. today. Evening and weekend appointments are available upon request. Our firm represents individuals and families in Kane, Will, and DuPage Counties, including Wheaton, St. Charles, Geneva, Downers Grove, Carol Stream, Naperville, Warrenville, Elmhurst, and Glen Ellyn.