When a loved one passes away without a will in Illinois, their estate doesn’t just disappear—it goes through a legal process called probate. But what does that actually mean? Who gets the property? And how long does it take? In this blog, we share “Illinois Probate 101: What Happens When Someone Dies Without a Will?” to help you understand how …
Probate is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after death, but when emotions run high and family dynamics are complex, probate can also become a legal battleground. Whether there’s confusion over the will, resentment between heirs, or questions about how the estate is managed, disputes are common—and they can quickly turn costly. In this blog, we explore “Common …
In the livestock industry, a cattle brand is more than just a mark, it’s a symbol of heritage, reputation, and the identity of a ranching operation. Traditionally used to identify ownership of livestock, cattle brands can also serve a broader purpose in the modern marketplace. If your cattle brand is being used not just to mark livestock but to promote …
If you’re thinking about protecting your brand name, logo, slogan, or other distinctive mark, you’re likely considering a federal trademark. But once you file an application, who actually reviews it? The answer: The United States Patent and Trademark Office (“USPTO”). What is the USPTO? The USPTO is a federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. It’s responsible for granting …
On January 24, 2025, the Illinois Supreme Court issued a significant decision in Mercado v. S&C Electric Co., 2025 IL 129526, clarifying the treatment of performance bonuses under the Illinois Minimum Wage Law (“IMWL”). The Court held that performance bonuses which are not measured by or dependent on hours worked must still be included in the “regular rate” of pay …
If you’re starting a business or nonprofit in Illinois, you might be wondering: Can I Form an LLC or Nonprofit Without a Lawyer in Illinois? The short answer is yes, you can form an LLC or nonprofit without a lawyer in Illinois. The Illinois Secretary of State allows you to file all the necessary documents on your own. But the …
Forming a corporation in Illinois can be a smart legal and strategic move for entrepreneurs who want liability protection, credibility, and the ability to scale. But the process involves more than just filing a form—you must meet specific state requirements and make important legal and tax decisions. At Rincker Law PLLC, we help business owners across Illinois form corporations the …
When we think about protecting a brand, trademarks like names, logos, and slogans often come to mind. But there’s another powerful and often overlooked form of intellectual property: trade dress. So, what exactly is trade dress, and why should businesses care about it? Trade Dress Defined Trade dress refers to the visual appearance of a product or its packaging that …
If you’re starting a business with one or more partners in Illinois, one of the most important decisions you’ll make early on is whether to create a partnership agreement. Legally, you’re not required to have one—but skipping it is one of the fastest ways to run into conflict, confusion, or costly legal battles. At Rincker Law PLLC, we help entrepreneurs …
When couples in Illinois start thinking about marriage, many are surprised to learn how flexible a prenuptial agreement can be. In this blog, a Champaign prenup lawyer from Rincker Law PLLC shares what can be included in a prenup and how it can protect your future. Whether you’re bringing assets into the marriage or want to avoid financial surprises later …
Many couples in Illinois create prenuptial agreements to protect their finances and avoid court battles down the road. But what happens if one spouse later wants to challenge the prenup? Can a prenup be thrown out in Illinois? In this article, a Champaign divorce lawyer from Rincker Law PLLC explains the most common reasons prenups are challenged—and what you can …
When a loved one is unable to manage their personal or financial affairs due to a disability, guardianship may become necessary. In this blog, Illinois Guardianship for Disabled Adults: FAQs Every Family Should Know, we answer the most common questions about how guardianship works for adults with disabilities under Illinois law. Whether you’re considering becoming a guardian or just starting …