Business Details
Compassionate Chicago Estate Planning Services
Matlin Law Group provides comprehensive estate planning, administration, and litigation services to families in Chicago and surrounding areas. Our attorneys combine decades of legal experience with a compassionate approach to guide clients through complex estate matters. We prioritize personalized solutions tailored to individual family dynamics and financial goals. Our team offers transparent pricing structures and flexible service options, including remote consultations. With a focus on client education, we empower individuals to make informed decisions about asset protection, guardianship, and end-of-life planning.The firm maintains a strong track record in probate court representation and trust administration. Our attorneys regularly contribute to legal education through community workshops and published articles. Client testimonials consistently highlight our responsiveness, expertise, and ability to simplify complex legal processes. We maintain active involvement in professional legal associations and continuing education programs. Our commitment to excellence is demonstrated through both our legal outcomes and the ongoing relationships we build with clients during life's most challenging transitions.
Services
Estate Planning
Will Preparation
Trust Administration
Power of Attorney
Probate Services
Estate Litigation
Guardianship Planning
HIPAA Authorizations
Highlights and features
- We offer free 1-hour estate planning consultations with experienced attorneys
- Our team includes Illinois Bar-certified specialists in estate law
- We implement a personalized approach addressing unique family dynamics
- Transparent pricing packages with no hidden fees
- Proven track record in complex estate litigation and trust administration
What people say
Compassionate and efficient
Excellent work
Wonderful guidance
Big comfort
Incredible attorney
Services
Estate Planning
Our estate planning services create comprehensive strategies to protect assets and ensure wishes are honored. We develop customized plans considering family dynamics, tax implications, and future needs. Our attorneys guide clients through document preparation including wills, trusts, and advance directives while maintaining strict confidentiality and legal compliance.
Will Preparation
We draft legally binding wills that clearly outline asset distribution and guardianship arrangements. Our attorneys ensure documents meet Illinois requirements while addressing potential challenges. The process includes detailed consultations to understand client objectives and family circumstances, with ongoing support for necessary updates.
Trust Administration
Our trust administration services guide trustees through complex legal responsibilities. We provide detailed accounting procedures, tax compliance guidance, and dispute resolution support. The team assists with both revocable and irrevocable trusts, ensuring proper asset management according to grantor intentions and legal standards.
Power of Attorney
We create customized power of attorney documents for healthcare and financial decisions. Our attorneys explain different POA types and help clients select appropriate agents. The process includes detailed instructions for decision-making parameters and contingency planning to ensure future needs are addressed.
Probate Services
Our probate services assist executors with estate administration requirements. We guide clients through asset inventory, debt settlement, tax filings, and distribution processes. The team represents clients in contested probate matters while maintaining compliance with Illinois court procedures and deadlines.
People
Eric G. Matlin
Founder
With over 30 years of legal experience, Eric specializes in complex estate planning and probate litigation. He has successfully resolved numerous contested estate cases and frequently contributes to legal education programs.
Mary E. Vanek
Managing Partner
Mary brings extensive expertise in trust administration and cross-state estate matters. Recently admitted to the Florida Bar, she provides specialized guidance for clients with multi-state assets and complex tax planning needs.
Johannah K. Hebl
Managing Partner
Johannah focuses on personalized estate planning solutions for families. Her approach emphasizes clear communication and practical strategies that address both immediate concerns and long-term protection for clients.
Talia M. Shambee
Attorney
Talia specializes in estate litigation and appellate practice. She recently secured a significant appellate court victory that established precedent in Illinois trust administration cases.
Questions
What estate planning documents do I really need?
Every adult should have a will, power of attorney, and healthcare directives. Our attorneys will help determine if trusts or specialized documents are appropriate for your situation.
How much does estate planning cost in Chicago?
Costs vary based on complexity. We offer transparent pricing packages starting from basic wills to comprehensive trust arrangements, with free initial consultations to discuss options.
Can I update my estate plan after it's created?
Yes, we recommend reviewing and updating your estate plan every 3-5 years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, or significant asset changes.
What happens if I die without a will in Illinois?
Illinois intestacy laws will determine asset distribution. Creating a will ensures your wishes are followed and helps prevent family disputes during probate.
How do I choose the right executor for my estate?
Select someone trustworthy, organized, and willing to serve. Our attorneys can help evaluate potential candidates and discuss responsibilities involved.
Can I handle estate planning without an attorney?
While DIY options exist, proper legal guidance ensures documents meet state requirements and address complex scenarios that generic templates might miss.
