Legal Services for Chicago’s Western Suburbs
Supporting Families in the Western Suburbs
Tailored guidance for Oak Park, Naperville, and beyond
The Law Office of Johann Chau proudly serves families throughout Chicago’s western suburbs, including Oak Park, Naperville, Bolingbrook, and surrounding communities. From probate to trust administration and long-term care planning, we provide personalized legal services that reflect the needs of suburban families. Whether you’re managing property in DuPage County, planning for elderly parents, or navigating guardianship, we offer clear, approachable guidance every step of the way.
Comprehensive Support for West Suburban Clients
Legal solutions for families and homeowners across DuPage, Will, and Cook Counties
We provide the following services for clients in the western suburbs:
Probate
Assisting executors and heirs with probate in DuPage County, Will County, and western Cook County
Trust Administration
Helping trustees manage and distribute assets properly for suburban estates
Guardianship
Guiding families in Oak Park, Naperville, and Bolingbrook through the Illinois guardianship process
Special Needs Trusts (SNT)
Creating trusts to protect benefits for disabled loved ones while providing supplemental care
Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts (MAPT)
Preserving homes and savings while planning for long-term care costs
Real Estate Closings
Representing buyers and sellers in residential transactions across suburban neighborhoods
Understanding the Western Suburbs’ Planning Needs
Addressing suburban priorities for property and family care
Western suburban families often have unique priorities compared to city residents. In Oak Park, historic homes may require special attention to ensure smooth transfers during probate or trust administration. In Naperville and Bolingbrook, growing families frequently seek guidance on guardianship and planning for minor children. With more homeowners in the suburbs, real estate transactions and Medicaid planning to protect family properties are common needs. Our familiarity with local courts, including DuPage County’s probate system in Wheaton, allows us to guide clients through the process efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions for Western Suburban Families
Legal guidance tailored to Oak Park, Naperville, and beyond
How does probate work in DuPage and Will Counties?
Probate in DuPage and Will Counties follows Illinois law but is managed through local court systems. Executors must file in the county where the deceased person lived or owned property. In DuPage County, filings are handled through the Wheaton courthouse, while Will County probate cases are managed in Joliet. We help suburban families navigate these local processes, ensuring deadlines are met and assets are distributed properly under county-specific procedures.
Why is trust administration important for suburban families?
Trust administration allows assets to be distributed outside of probate, which is especially useful for homeowners in the western suburbs with significant property holdings. Trustees must follow legal obligations, maintain detailed records, and keep beneficiaries informed. For families with multiple properties or investment real estate in areas like Naperville and Oak Brook, proper trust administration ensures smooth transitions and avoids disputes. We provide step-by-step support so trustees meet their obligations under Illinois law.
When should I consider guardianship in the suburbs?
Guardianship becomes necessary when a loved one can no longer manage their affairs, and no prior documents are in place. In suburban communities, this is often for elderly parents who wish to remain in their home or for minor children when parents cannot provide care. The process requires court approval and ongoing reporting. We guide Oak Park and Naperville families through every step to make sure they can legally provide the care and support their loved one needs.
How do Special Needs Trusts benefit suburban families?
A Special Needs Trust allows you to provide financial support for a disabled loved one without affecting their eligibility for Medicaid or SSI. In the western suburbs, where families often have larger estates or multiple properties, SNTs are a critical part of preserving benefits and long-term security. These trusts can pay for supplemental care, therapies, and educational needs. We help suburban families design SNTs that fit seamlessly into their broader estate plan.
Why are Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts important for homeowners?
In Oak Park, Naperville, and surrounding areas, preserving family homes is often a top priority. A Medicaid Asset Protection Trust allows you to shield property and savings while preparing for the possibility of long-term care costs. Because of the five-year look-back period, creating a MAPT early is essential. We work with suburban families to integrate MAPTs into their overall plan so they can qualify for Medicaid when needed without losing their legacy.