Many people believe that a simple will is all they need to accomplish their goals for the future. However, a flawed estate plan can create just as many headaches, heartaches, and expenses for your loved ones as having no plan. Life changes, laws evolve, and even the best intentions can fall short, leaving family members facing court battles, unexpected taxes, …
Many grandparents in Central Illinois step into caregiving roles when parents are unable or unavailable to meet a child’s needs. During these moments, families often ask: When can grandparents seek guardianship of a minor child in Illinois? Because Illinois law strongly protects parental rights, grandparents must understand both the opportunities and limitations the law provides. Different counties, including Champaign and …
Rincker Law PLLC is proud to share that our principal attorney, Cari Rincker, was recently featured in an in-depth attorney profile in the Illinois State Bar Association (ISBA) Rural Practice Section Newsletter. The profile, written by Sara Peska and Ean R. Albers, offers a detailed look into Cari’s career path, her return to rural Illinois, and her longstanding dedication to …
In this blog, “From Trademarks to Tractors: Why More Farmers Are Protecting Their Ag Brands and Innovations in 2026,” we explore the growing importance of intellectual property (IP) protection in modern agriculture. As Illinois farm families expand their businesses into online sales, ag-tech, and branded products, protecting their ideas and identity has become just as important as protecting their land …
In this blog, “Farms, Family, and Fairness: How the Next Generation of Farm Divorces Will Shape Ag Businesses in 2026,” we explore how the intersection of family and business law is reshaping the future of agricultural operations and generational wealth. Divorce in a farm family can be one of the most complex legal events because it affects not only the …
Fairness vs. Equality in Inheritance Planning Many parents strive to treat their children fairly, but fairness doesn’t always mean equality. When it comes to inheritance, a thoughtful estate plan considers each child’s unique circumstances, ensuring distributions truly support their needs. When Unequal Inheritance Is Fair Here are common situations where unequal but fair distributions may be the right choice: Different …
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 …