Protect What Matters Most With Strategic Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning
Thinking about the future can be overwhelming—especially when it comes to legal documents, finances, and family decisions. But planning today means peace of mind tomorrow. At William Hellyer Ltd Attorneys At Law, we help individuals and families throughout Crystal Lake, Algonquin, and surrounding communities create clear, legally sound estate plans that reflect their wishes, protect their assets, and reduce the burden on loved ones.
With more than 40 years of experience, our firm offers straightforward guidance, tailored solutions, and compassionate support throughout the estate planning process. Whether you need a simple will or a full trust-based plan, we’re here to make sure your legacy is protected—and your voice is heard.
What Is Estate Planning—And Why Does It Matter?
Estate planning isn’t just for the wealthy—it’s for anyone who wants to make sure their affairs are in order. It’s the process of making legal decisions about what happens to your assets, your medical care, and your responsibilities if you’re no longer able to speak for yourself.
Without a plan, Illinois law will determine how your property is divided—which may not reflect your actual wishes. A properly prepared estate plan gives you control, minimizes disputes, and often reduces unnecessary legal costs for your family.
Core Estate Planning Services We Provide
Wills
A will is the foundation of any estate plan. It allows you to:
- Decide who receives your assets
- Name guardians for your minor children
- Appoint an executor to manage your estate
- Leave clear instructions for your funeral and final wishes.
We draft custom wills that reflect your personal priorities—not just a one-size-fits-all template. Every clause, every sentence, is designed to protect your loved ones from confusion or conflict.
Living Trusts and Revocable Trusts
Trusts offer a flexible, often more private way to manage and transfer assets. We help you create:
- Revocable Living Trusts—Manage assets during your lifetime and avoid probate after death
- Irrevocable Trusts – Protect assets from creditors or for long-term care planning
- Special Needs Trusts – Provide for loved ones with disabilities without affecting their government benefits
Trusts are especially helpful if you own property in multiple states, have a blended family, or want to avoid delays and court involvement.
Powers of Attorney
What happens if you’re alive but unable to make decisions? We draft Powers of Attorney (POA) for:
- Healthcare – Designating someone to make medical decisions on your behalf
- Property—Giving a trusted individual authority to manage your finances or legal affairs if you're incapacitated
These documents are vital to every adult—not just seniors. Accidents and emergencies can happen at any age, and POAs ensure your affairs are managed by someone you trust.
Advance Directives and Living Wills
Make your healthcare wishes known before you're unable to communicate. With a living will or advance directive, you can state your preferences for life-sustaining treatment, organ donation, and end-of-life care. This takes the burden off your family and ensures your dignity is respected.
Why Clients Trust William Hellyer Ltd With Their Estate Planning
We’ve helped generations of families prepare for the future—and we take that responsibility seriously. Our approach combines deep legal knowledge with a warm, approachable style that puts clients at ease. Estate planning can feel deeply personal and even emotional. We’re here to guide you with empathy, clarity, and patience.
What You Can Expect Working With Us:
A confidential, no-pressure consultation
Personalized plans—never cookie-cutter documents
A clear explanation of your options (in plain English)
A team that listens to what you want
Attention to both legal detail and family dynamics
Whether you’re planning for a growing family, updating an old will, or managing the estate of a loved one, we’re here to help.
Serving McHenry and Kane Counties With Integrity
We are proud to support individuals and families across:
Crystal Lake
Algonquin
Lake in the Hills
Cary
Huntley
Woodstock
McHenry
Fox River Grove
Our understanding of local laws and probate procedures in McHenry County and Kane County means your documents will be prepared with accuracy, foresight, and compliance.
Start Your Estate Plan With Confidence
Whether you need a simple will or a full estate strategy with trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives—it starts with a conversation. We’re here to answer your questions and help you make decisions that bring peace of mind for years to come.
📞 Call William Hellyer Ltd., Attorneys at Law, at (815) 459-1700.
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Offices in
Crystal Lake, IL, proudly serving
Algonquin, IL, and beyond.
