A Process Built on Understanding not urgency
For most retirees, revocable living trusts are discussed quickly-and decided even faster.
That often leads to confusion, uncertainty, or regret.
At Chicagoland Trust, we take a different approach.
Since 1993, our process has been designed to slow things down, provide clear education, and guide you step by step-so when decisions are made, they’re made with confidence and understanding.
There is no pressure. No obligation. Just a proven, thoughtful path forward.
Step 1: Learn before you decideÂ
Step 2: A private consultationÂ
Step 3: Attorney coordination
Step 4: Funding the Trust
Step 5: Continued Guidance
Step 1:Â Learn before you decide
Most people begin with one of our free educational seminars, held at local libraries and community spaces.
These sessions are designed to explain:
- What revocable living trusts are-and what they’re not
- Why many retirees consider them
- Common misconceptions and mistakes
- The decisions involved before any legal work begins.
Step 2:Â A private consultation
For those who want to explore next steps, we offer a one-on-one consultation.
This is a private, no-pressure conversation where we:
- Review your general situation
- Answer questions specific to your family and goals
- Help you think through key considerations
- Determine whether moving forward makes sense for you.
This meeting is about preparation-not commitment.
Many people leave with clarity, even if they decide not to proceed further.
Step 3:Â Attorney coordination (when ready)
If, after education and consultation, it makes sense to move forward, Chicagoland Trust coordinates the next step.
At that point, we introduce you to one of our experienced partner attorneys, who:
- Draft the legal trust documents
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Provide legal advice
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Execute the trust in accordance with state law
The attorney handles all legal work directly.
Chicagoland Trust remains your guide and primary point of contact throughout the process.
This structure allows you to move forward confidently-knowing that education, preparation, and legal execution each happen at the right time and with the right professionals.
Step 4:Â Funding the Trust
Turning planning into protection
Creating a trust is only half the process. For a trust to work as intended, it must also be properly funded.
In simple terms:
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Step 1: Build the trust
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Step 2: Fund the trust with the appropriate assets
Both steps are equally important.
Step 5:Â Continued Guidance (through Membership)
Life changes. Laws change. Families change.
Chicagoland Trust operates as a membership-based organization so our relationship doesn’t end once documents are signed.
Membership provides:
- Ongoing educational support
- Guidance as circumstances evolve
- A trusted place to return with questions
- Continuity and peace of mind over time
For many members, this ongoing relationship is just as valuable as the trust itself.
Learn about Membership
Our Role? Make your life easier.
Chicagoland Trust provides education, guidance, and coordination.
We do not provide legal advice or draft legal documents.
All legal work related to trust creation is handled by licensed attorneys.
Our role is to ensure you are informed, prepared, and supported throughout the process.
Why our Process Works
Our approach is intentionally different from traditional models.Â
We lead with education, not documents
We focus on understanding before decisions
We introduce attorneys at the appropriate stage
We remain involved long after the paperwork is complete
This structure protects our members from rushed decisions - and ensures they feel informed every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Clear answers to help you know what to expect.
Do I really need a trust, or is a will enough?
What happens if I already have a trust?
Are you a law firm or estate attorneys?
What does the process actually look like?
Start Where You're Comfortable
There’s no single “right” way to begin.
- Some people attend a seminar.
- Others start with a guide or video.
- Some schedule a conversation first.
Wherever you start, we’ll meet you there.
