Business Details
31 Years
experience
Trusted Estate Planning & Probate Attorney in Edwardsville, IL
With over 30 years of legal experience, I established my solo practice in 1995 to provide personalized legal counsel to families and businesses. My firm specializes in estate planning, trusts, probate, and real estate transactions, offering tailored solutions that reflect each client's unique needs. Recognized for my professionalism and ethics, I hold a BV Distinguished Peer Review Rating from Martindale-Hubbell, underscoring my commitment to excellence. I prioritize understanding clients' personal circumstances to create tax-efficient estate plans and resolve complex legal matters. My practice extends to commercial law, business litigation, and real estate disputes, ensuring comprehensive legal support.Located in Edwardsville, Illinois, I serve clients across the region with dedicated, confidential service. My dual expertise as an attorney and real estate broker enhances my ability to navigate property transactions and related legal challenges. I guide executors through probate processes and help clients draft wills that honor their wishes while minimizing disputes. My approach combines in-depth legal knowledge with a focus on preserving family legacies and protecting assets. By staying current with evolving laws, I ensure clients receive accurate, forward-thinking advice. My reputation for integrity and client-centric service remains the foundation of my practice.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Administration
Real Estate Transactions
Trusts
Wills
Business Law
Commercial Law
Guardianship
Tax Planning
Real Estate Litigation
Details
- Year established: 1995
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of legal experience in estate planning and probate.
- Our personalized counsel ensures tax-efficient asset transfer strategies.
- BV Distinguished-rated attorney for professional ethics and expertise.
- Dual expertise in real estate law and business litigation.
- We serve Edwardsville and surrounding areas with localized legal knowledge.
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell BV Distinguished
Services
Estate Planning
Crafting customized estate plans to protect assets and ensure tax-efficient transfers. Services include wills, trusts, and guardianship arrangements tailored to individual family needs and financial goals. Focus on minimizing probate complications.
Probate Administration
Guiding executors through Illinois probate processes including asset valuation, debt settlement, and distribution. Representing clients in will disputes and contested probate matters while maintaining compliance with state regulations.
Real Estate Transactions
Handling residential and commercial real estate closings, contract negotiations, and title searches. Resolving boundary disputes, zoning issues, and landlord-tenant conflicts with practical legal solutions for property owners.
Trusts
Establishing revocable and irrevocable trusts to manage asset distribution and reduce estate taxes. Providing ongoing trust administration support to ensure compliance with legal requirements and grantor intentions.
Wills
Drafting legally binding wills that outline property distribution and guardianship preferences. Advising on updates for life changes including marriage, divorce, and new dependents to maintain document validity.
People
Paul H. Lauber
Attorney at Law
Licensed attorney with 30+ years of experience in estate planning and real estate law. Holds Martindale-Hubbell BV Distinguished rating for legal excellence. Serves Edwardsville communities with personalized legal strategies.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I need?
Essential documents include wills, living wills, and trusts. We help determine which combination best protects your assets and ensures your wishes are followed.
How does probate work in Illinois?
Probate involves validating wills and distributing assets through court oversight. We guide executors through inventorying assets, paying debts, and transferring property to heirs efficiently.
Can I handle real estate transactions without an attorney?
While possible, legal representation helps avoid contract disputes and title issues. We ensure proper documentation and compliance with Illinois property laws during sales or purchases.
What happens if someone dies without a will?
Intestate succession laws determine asset distribution. The court appoints administrators and guardians, which may not align with the deceased's preferences or family needs.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review plans after major life events like marriages, births, or significant asset changes. We recommend updates every 3-5 years to maintain legal relevance and effectiveness.
