Booker, TX Estate Planning Law Firms & Lawyers

Generally speaking, you can get control over an estate, even if you live in a different state. For a probate estate, most states allow an executor/trustee to be a non-resident, but they may require a supplemental, local executor/trustee to be appointed to assist you in handling certain real estate and financial transactions. However, it appears from your question that your father is still living, so I assume this would a guardianship estate. Guardianship estates can be split into two - one for control over the person (i.e., making decisions about their health, living environment and general care), and the other is for control over their financial estate. Most states, Illinois included, require that the guardian for the financial estate be located in the same state as the ward. You may need to find someone locally to act as this guardian. There are professional organizations that provide these services, such as a trust company (i.e., Northern Trust). This answer is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be legal advice nor does it establish an attorney-client relationship. Please consult a local probate lawyer for legal advice that is tailored to your facts and circumstances.

Speak with your lawyer. In MI, a notice is sent out outlining what is to be done. You do not get a %. Rather, you are paid a reasonable rate per hour for work performed. Any request for a payment of fees must be filed for hearing, notice given to all interested parties and approved by the court.

If your children are adults, you do not have to provide for them in your estate plan - you can leave your estate to whomever you choose; however, if you do not complete an estate plan during your lifetime, your children may be the statutory heirs of your estate. I recommend you consult with an attorney as soon as possible to discuss your objectives.