When a child may need someone other than a parent to take responsibility for their care, courts must determine whether guardianship is appropriate, and if so, who should serve in that role. In these cases, judges rely on one central principle: how Illinois courts determine the best interests of the child in guardianship cases. This standard guides decisions about appointing …
When a family seeks guardianship of a disabled adult in Illinois, one of the most important questions the court must answer is how Illinois courts determine capacity in guardianship cases. Capacity determines whether guardianship is necessary, how broad the guardian’s authority should be, and whether less restrictive alternatives can keep the adult safe. Illinois courts strive to balance the protection …
Why Joint Ownership Can Put Your Children’s Inheritance at Risk Owning your home or financial accounts jointly with someone—such as a spouse or adult child—is common. However, the way you hold title can have serious, unintended consequences for your estate plan and your children’s inheritance. The most frequent form is joint tenants with right of survivorship, which means that when …
Your brand isn’t just a name. It’s a promise. It’s the handshake your customers remember, the logo on every product that leaves your barn, and the story that sets you apart in a crowded market. In agriculture and food, your brand carries your reputation — and that reputation deserves more than a one-size-fits-all filing. Filing a trademark yourself might seem …
This was first published in the November 2025 edition of the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA)’s Agriculture Section Council newsletter. SNAP Benefits and USDA Legal Battles A series of federal court rulings in late October and early November have forced the USDA to reverse its suspension of November SNAP benefits due to the government shutdown.[1] Judges in Rhode Island and …
Becoming a parent is a life-changing experience, and it’s natural to start thinking about your child’s future and protection. While legal documents may not be top of mind, creating a will is one of the most loving things you can do for your child. Here are five essential things every new parent should know about wills. 1. Naming a Guardian …
As harvest season winds down and winter approaches, it’s the perfect time for Illinois farmers to take stock of their business and legal matters. End-of-Year Farm Planning Checklist: Legal Steps Every Illinois Farmer Should Take Before 2026 provides a detailed guide to help you wrap up this year with confidence and start the new one on solid footing. From reviewing …
Understanding What “Home” Means in Estate Planning Your home is likely one of your most valuable assets—and one filled with memories. But when it comes to estate planning, “leaving my home to someone” is more complex than it sounds. The law views your home as a bundle of property rights, not just a place of comfort. To ensure your wishes …
The holidays can be joyful yet challenging, especially for separated or divorced parents. Co-Parenting Through the Holidays: Legal and Emotional Tips for Illinois Families and Farm Families offers practical guidance for navigating this emotional time of year. Whether you live in a busy city like Chicago or run a family farm in rural Illinois, managing co-parenting schedules during the holidays …
Families caring for an adult with disabilities often face difficult decisions about safety, long-term care, financial management, and medical decision-making. In Illinois, one of the most important tools available to help protect a vulnerable adult is legal guardianship. Guardianship allows a trusted person to step in and make essential decisions when an individual cannot safely make those decisions alone. In …
When a parent becomes unable to care for a child due to illness, absence, instability, or unexpected life events, another trusted adult often steps in. In Illinois, this legal responsibility is known as guardianship for a minor child. Families in Champaign and Shelbyville often turn to guardianship when they need a stable, court-recognized plan to protect a child’s well-being, education, …
Why Communication Matters in Estate Planning Creating an estate plan is a deeply personal process, but keeping it entirely private can lead to confusion, delays, or unintended consequences. Communicating your estate plan to the right people ensures your wishes are honored and your loved ones are prepared to act when needed. A Tiered Approach to Sharing Your Estate Plan 1. …