Having an estate plan in place gives you and your loved ones a sense of direction and security. But that peace of mind can fade if the lawyer you’re working with isn’t the right fit anymore. Life changes, and so do your needs. What worked five or ten years ago may no longer reflect your current goals, family setup, or financial picture.
Chicago families often go through different life stages—kids grow up, property gets bought or sold, careers shift, retirement comes into view, or health becomes a concern. When these changes happen, keeping your estate plan up to date takes more than a quick signature. It may even mean finding an estate planning lawyer who’s better prepared to walk with you through the next phase. Knowing when to make that change can help protect your family’s future and give you peace of mind.
Signs You Might Need to Replace Your Estate Planning Lawyer
Most people don’t expect to switch attorneys once they’ve completed an estate plan. But ignoring the signs of an outdated or unhelpful relationship can lead to future headaches. Whether it’s poor communication or a shift in your situation, there are several reasons to think about making a change.
- You never hear from them unless you reach out first. A dependable estate planning lawyer stays in contact, updating you on legal changes and checking in when it might be time to revisit your documents. If your lawyer vanishes after the initial planning, that’s not a good sign.
- You hear about updates in estate law from others—not them. Illinois laws can change, and your lawyer should be the one making sure your plan still works with updated regulations.
- You feel hesitant to ask questions. If your lawyer doesn’t listen or brushes off your concerns, you may not feel confident discussing serious decisions. Trust is a big part of this relationship.
- Your estate has grown more complex. New investments, a business venture, or family changes like remarriage or grandchildren could mean your estate needs more than just basic planning. Your lawyer should have experience handling more advanced situations.
Think about someone who wrote a simple will ten years ago when they had one child and rented a condo. Now they own two homes in Chicago, have three kids, and run a business. If their lawyer hasn’t suggested changes, there might be a gap between what’s written and what’s actually needed. That’s when it makes sense to consider new legal help.
Understanding Your New Needs and Goals
Life doesn’t stay the same for long. If your estate plan hasn’t changed in years, it may not match your current values or priorities. Before switching attorneys, it helps to get a clear picture of your life today.
Start by reviewing your current estate plan:
- Are your will, powers of attorney, and trust documents easy to find and understand?
- Would you make the same choices today that you made five or ten years ago?
Then look at your family. Have there been births, marriages, divorces, or deaths? Those changes can impact inheritance wishes, decision-makers, or beneficiaries.
Review your financial picture too. A growing business, new investments, inherited property, or retirement savings might require more advanced legal planning. If your estate has become more complicated but your plan hasn’t kept up, that’s a red flag.
It’s not about chasing perfection or making constant changes. The goal is to keep your estate plan in step with your current life. If your lawyer isn’t offering meaningful advice anymore or lacks the experience for your new situation, it may be time to reassess.
Finding the Right Estate Planning Lawyer in Chicago
If you’ve decided your current estate planning lawyer no longer meets your needs, the next move is to find someone who does. You want a lawyer who knows Illinois law, listens carefully, communicates clearly, and takes your long-term goals seriously.
Here’s how to begin looking:
- Talk to people you trust. Ask friends, co-workers, or extended family if they worked with an estate planning lawyer in Chicago and had a good experience.
- Meet potential lawyers and pay attention. Ask about their background, how much of their work involves estate planning, and their approach to family planning. Take notes, especially on how clearly they explain things.
- Look at client reviews. Real testimonials can provide a look into whether they’re consistent, helpful, and respectful after the initial planning is done.
Be mindful of how they answer your questions. If you ask about sensitive topics like caring for a child with special needs and they offer only vague responses or push fees before understanding your story, that’s a red flag.
You’re not just picking someone to update papers. You’re choosing who will help protect your family’s future through each stage of life. A lawyer focused on Chicago families with a deep understanding of Illinois law can make that long-term difference.
Making the Transition Smooth
Even if switching lawyers feels like a hassle, a little organization can make the process smooth and stress-free. The goal is to give your new estate planning lawyer the information they need to build the right plan with you.
Start by gathering your current legal paperwork—your will, trust papers, power of attorney documents, healthcare directives, and anything else in your estate file.
Then take these helpful steps:
- Make a current list of your assets. Include property, business holdings, investments, retirement accounts, and anything else tied to your finances.
- Write down what's most important to you. This could include how you want your children cared for, assistance for aging relatives, or legacy planning like charitable giving.
- Be open and clear during your first meeting. Share what’s changed, where you feel uncertain, and how you’d like things handled going forward.
- Stay active in keeping things updated. Even an annual check-in can prevent surprises and help your plan stay effective. You want to feel comfortable reaching out at any time—not just when you think there’s a problem.
These steps give your new lawyer a solid footing and help keep things running smoothly. It’s not just about getting documents signed. It’s about feeling secure in knowing your plan suits your wishes now and in the years ahead.
Keep Your Estate Plan Working for You
An estate plan is not meant to be created once and forgotten. It needs updates, maintenance, and care—just like anything important in your life. If your current setup feels out of sync or your lawyer is no longer helpful, don’t shrug it off.
Replacing your estate planning lawyer might feel like a big step. But if it leads to better communication, more thoughtful guidance, and a plan that actually fits your life, it’s worth taking seriously. A solid estate plan gives your family direction, even when things are uncertain. The right lawyer helps make that possible.
Chicago in late June is a great time to pause and reflect. The days are longer, the energy is different, and the moment may feel right to take care of things you’ve been putting off. If your estate planning lawyer isn’t keeping up, it might be time to look for someone who will. Small steps now can save major stress later—and help protect those you love when it matters most.
Ready to take the next step in securing your family's future? Learn how an experienced estate planning lawyer can help you build a plan that reflects your current needs and goals. Trust Jurist Law Group to guide you through the process with care, clarity, and personalized support.