Posted on April 08, 2025 in Estate Planning

Even though almost three-quarters of Americans say that having an estate plan that includes a will or a trust and a living will is important, less than half (46 percent) actually have an estate plan in place. Slightly less than that (45 percent) have a living will, which dictates how an individual’s medical decisions will be handled in the event of incapacitation.

As you might expect, those older than 65 are most likely to have a will, with about 76 percent having some level of estate plan. Only about 20 percent of those under 30 have an estate plan. Planning for the future can be overwhelming, but with the guidance of an experienced Lisle, IL estate planning attorney, you can experience real peace of mind.  

What Should Your Estate Plan Include?

Your estate plan will depend on your age, situation, and the level of assets you own, as well as whether you have a spouse and/or children. Although this is a popular misconception, virtually everyone can benefit from an estate plan, not just the wealthy.

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 Posted on March 19, 2025 in Residential Real Estate

If you are a veteran, active-duty service member, or first responder, you deserve a home that fits your needs — and maybe a little extra help along the way. Illinois offers several programs designed to make homeownership more affordable for those who have served their communities and their country.

At The McCormick Law Firm, LLC, we know how important it is to find a home that is the right fit for you and your family. We work directly with buyers throughout Illinois and Wisconsin to make sure the home-buying process goes smoothly. As a way of giving back, our Illinois real estate lawyer also offers steep discounts on legal services for veterans, military personnel, and first responders.

Home Buying Programs for Veterans and First Responders

If you are looking to buy a home, Illinois offers programs that can provide down payment assistance, low-interest loans, and other financial support. Here are some of the most helpful options:

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 Posted on February 18, 2025 in Estate Planning

Bringing up the topic of estate planning with your parents can be very uncomfortable. No one likes to think about end-of-life decisions, and many people avoid these conversations because they do not know where to start or because they are afraid they may come off as overly eager about their inheritance. 

However, having a strong estate plan is not just about money. It is about making sure your parents’ wishes are honored, reducing stress for family members when your parents pass, and avoiding unnecessary legal complications. Our Illinois estate planning attorney at The McCormick Law Firm, LLC can help your parents create an estate plan that is as detailed or simple as they need it to be. Call us today. 

What is an Estate Plan? 

Estate planning includes several important documents. A will states who will inherit property and who will be responsible for managing the estate. Trusts are more complex, but still serve the fundamental purpose of protecting someone’s property and legacy, especially by keeping valuable assets out of the probate process. 

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 Posted on January 31, 2025 in Residential Real Estate

Buying your first home is an exciting step, but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. For many people in their late 20s or early 30s, buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions they will ever make.

Understanding the process and making smart choices along the way can set you up for success. With the right guidance, including help from an experienced attorney, you can navigate buying your first home with confidence.

At our office, you will work directly with an Illinois real estate attorney to address every legal aspect of the home buying process, ensuring that you are protected from start to finish. Here are six tips to help first-time homebuyers get started on the right foot.

Know What You Can Afford

Before you start looking at listings, take a close look at your budget. In addition to your mortgage payment, factor in property taxes, homeowners insurance, utilities, and maintenance costs.

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