You've probably heard the warning: "What you post on the internet stays forever." But what happens to your digital life after you die? If you're like most people under 40, you probably have cryptocurrency wallets, streaming subscriptions, social media accounts with years of memories, cloud storage full of photos, and maybe even an online business or digital investments. The real question isn't whether your digital footprint lasts forever; it's whether the people you care abou

When you're facing a medical emergency, the last thing you want is for your chosen family to be turned away at the hospital door, or for medical decisions to fall into the hands of estranged relatives who don't understand or respect your identity and relationships. For LGBTQIA+ individuals in the Illinois-Wisconsin Stateline region, robust healthcare directives aren't just good planning—they're essential protection. Why Healthcare Directives Matter Even More for LGBTQIA+ Peop

If you're a solo practitioner or work in a small law firm in Illinois, here's an uncomfortable question: What would happen to your clients if you were suddenly unable to practice tomorrow? Most attorneys spend their careers protecting their clients' interests. But many haven't taken the essential step of protecting those same clients from the consequences of their own death or disability. The Illinois Attorney Registration and Disciplinary Commission is clear: succession plan

As we settle into 2026, many of us are focused on New Year's resolutions: losing weight, saving money, or finally organizing that cluttered garage. But there's one resolution that often gets overlooked, despite its critical importance: getting your estate plan in order. Whether you're just starting to think about estate planning or you created documents years ago that are gathering dust, 2026 is an ideal time to take action. Here are five essential estate planning goals to pr

Planning for the future is essential, but concerns about the costs of estate planning can often be a barrier. At Mertzenich Law, also...

Estate planning can feel overwhelming, especially when you encounter complex legal jargon. But don’t worry—we’re here to simplify it!...

Illinois is a state known for its rich culture, diverse communities, and vibrant nonprofit sector. Whether you're supporting local food...

With the recent shift toward a more conservative administration in the United States, many LGBTQ+ individuals are understandably...

Estate planning can be complex, especially when you have assets or family members in different states. If you live in Illinois or...

In the realm of personal and financial management, a Power of Attorney (POA) for property is a crucial legal tool that can offer peace of...

If you reside in Illinois, the process for legally changing your name is relatively simple, but detail-oriented. Here’s an overview to...

Tax season often brings a mix of anticipation and dread for many individuals. While the process of filing taxes can be daunting, there...

In the world of estate planning, there are numerous tools and strategies available to help individuals minimize taxes, transfer wealth...

Estate planning is a critical aspect of financial and familial security, ensuring that everything you've built for yourself and your...

Estate planning is a topic that many people tend to put off or overlook, often assuming it's something only the wealthy need to concern...