Practice Areas

Wills and trusts are the foundation of a sound estate plan and the core of Michael A. Yashar's practice. From a straightforward last will and testament to a revocable living trust designed to keep your estate out of probate, Michael builds plans that fit Illinois families — protecting your assets, your loved ones, and your wishes.

Last Will and Testament

A properly drafted will ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, names guardians for minor children, and appoints an executor to manage your estate. Even if your estate situation seems straightforward, a professionally prepared will prevents ambiguity and potential disputes among heirs — and meets Illinois's specific witnessing and execution requirements.

Revocable Living Trusts

A revocable living trust lets you transfer assets to a trust during your lifetime, manage them as trustee, and pass them to your beneficiaries on your death without going through probate. For many Illinois families — especially those with real estate in multiple counties or states, blended families, or privacy concerns — a living trust is the centerpiece of the plan. Michael drafts the trust, walks clients through funding it, and coordinates pour-over wills and beneficiary designations so the whole plan works together.

Specialized & Testamentary Trusts

Beyond the standard revocable trust, Michael drafts testamentary trusts for minor children, special needs trusts that preserve benefit eligibility, and other trust structures matched to your family's situation. The right trust can protect assets from creditors, manage distributions over time, and provide for loved ones with specific needs.

Powers of Attorney & Healthcare Directives

Every Illinois estate plan should include a durable power of attorney for property, a healthcare power of attorney, and a living will (advance healthcare directive). These documents let someone you trust act for you if you become unable to make decisions yourself, and they document your wishes about medical treatment. Michael prepares these documents alongside your will or trust so every piece of the plan works together.

Cook and DuPage County Probate

When probate is unavoidable, Michael represents executors and family members through the Cook County and DuPage County probate process — from petitioning to open the estate, through inventory and creditor claims, to final distribution. Solid planning during life makes probate simpler; when it does become necessary, an experienced attorney makes it manageable.

Alongside the estate planning and real estate work at the core of his practice, Michael A. Yashar offers experienced legal counsel for a variety of other matters. His decades of practice have given him exposure to many areas of law, allowing him to provide thoughtful guidance for various legal challenges.

Contract Matters

Whether you're entering into a business agreement, reviewing a contract you've been asked to sign, or dealing with a contract dispute, having an attorney review the terms protects your interests. Michael can help you understand your obligations and rights under any agreement.

Civil Litigation

When disputes cannot be resolved through negotiation, litigation may become necessary. Michael's courtroom experience spans decades and includes both state and federal courts. He approaches each case with careful preparation and strategic thinking.

Consultation Services

Sometimes you simply need guidance on a legal question before deciding how to proceed. Michael provides consultations to help you understand your options and determine the best path forward for your specific situation.