Make a Will and Protect Your Legacy

Get Trusted Legal Help with Your Will from Palley Law

Ensuring your assets are distributed the way you intend—a will for clarity and peace of mind.

Wills Attorney Serving Clients in the Greater Chicago Area

Palley Law counsels clients throughout the Chicago area, helping them through the process of crafting the right will for their plans.

Why Palley Law

Expert, Local Help

Unlike many law firms that handle wills as an aside, Palley Law focuses its practice entirely on wills, estate planning and probate. Locally headquartered, it is intimately familiar with the Illinois wills law, planning strategies, and best practices. You will receive expert, knowledgeable counsel.

Value for Money

Palley Law gives its clients value for money. From a no-charge one-on-one initial consultation to transparent fees, Palley Law is open and upfront about what it charges its clients.

Delivering Services the Way You Want: In-Person or Virtually

Visit Palley Law on the fifty-first floor of the Aon Center in Chicago and treat yourself to a no-charge planning session along with breathtaking views of Grant Park and Lake Michigan. If you prefer to meet virtually the office offers both video and teleconferencing meetings, with easy online scheduling.

A Law Firm That Listens

The attorney at Palley Law listens intently to what you say. You get asked the right questions to fully develop your goals and inventory your assets. Palley Law actively listens to your answers, then provides you with the available legal options along with an analysis of the pros and cons of each.

A Responsive Law Firm

Above all else, Palley Law prides itself on its responsiveness to clients. Your calls will be answered, your voicemails returned promptly, and your emails answered quickly. No client wants to be left in the dark or wait days for a response to a question they have. Palley Law makes sure you are kept fully and promptly informed throughout your engagement.

“I reached out to Paul regarding a legal matter. He responded very quickly … and promptly reached out … Highly recommend.”

KR

Chicago, Illinois

A Will That Fits Your Life

Palley Law focuses on helping individuals and families plan for the future with confidence. Whether you’re drafting a will, crafting a trust, or planning your estate, you’ll receive clear, compassionate legal guidance every step of the way. Palley Law’s goal is to make wills understandable, personal, and tailored to your needs. Creating a will is more than just paperwork–it’s about listening, understanding, and building a trust that fits your circumstances. Because each client brings a unique story, Palley Law is here to help you craft a will that reflects your values, priorities, and relationships. You can expect clear guidance and genuine care.

What a Will Can Do for You

Specify how your assets will be distributed
Name guardians for minor children
Designate an executor you trust
Reduce confusion and family conflict
Support charitable causes

Step-by-Step: Creating a Will

Creating a will involves several key steps:

Inventory Your Assets: List all your assets, including property, bank accounts, investments, and personal items.
Decide on Beneficiaries: Determine who will inherit your assets.
Choose an Executor: Select someone trustworthy to carry out the terms of your will.
Appoint Guardians: If you have minor children, designate guardians to care for them.
Consult an Attorney: Work with a legal professional to ensure your will complies with state laws and accurately reflects your wishes.
Sign and Witness: Execute the will according to legal requirements, typically involving witnesses.

How to Prepare

Read Palley Law’s recently published article “How to Prepare For an Estate Planning Consultation with an Attorney” for helpful information on preparing for your initial consultation.

Common Misconceptions About Wills

It’s a common belief that only the wealthy need wills. In reality, anyone with assets, dependents, or specific wishes for their estate should have one. Other misconceptions include:

“I’m too young to need a will.” Unexpected events can happen at any age; having a will provides peace of mind.
“Everything will automatically go to my spouse or children.” Without a will, the distribution may not reflect your desires and can lead to legal complications.

Frequently Asked Questions

It’s advisable to review your will every few years or after significant life events, such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or acquiring substantial assets.

Yes, you can amend your will through a codicil or by creating a new will that revokes the previous one.

Dying intestate (without a will) means state laws will determine how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your preferences.

Read the full faqs >

Ready to Create or Update Your Will?

Palley Law gives one-on-one planning sessions with an attorney at no charge

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Considering a Trust or Need Help with Probate?

Explore related services to complement your estate planning needs:

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