847-410-9131

8401 Crawford Ave, Suite 104

Skokie, IL 60076

Trusted Elder Law & Estate Planning

Protect Your Family's Future With Compassionate Legal Guidance

Navigate Medicaid planning, estate administration, and special needs trusts with an attorney who combines legal expertise with genuine care.

★★★★★ 5.0 Rating on Google
J.D. & M.B.A., University of Chicago
10+
Years of Practice
5.0
Google Rating
ABA
Elder Law Section Co-Vice Chair
NAELA
National Academy Member

Facing These Challenges?

You're not alone. These are the concerns that bring most families to our door.

Medicaid Confusion

Confusion and stress surrounding Medicaid application and eligibility requirements.

Asset Protection Fears

Fear of losing life savings to nursing home costs without proper planning.

Probate Overwhelm

Legal complexities of managing a deceased loved one's estate can be overwhelming.

Protecting Benefits

Ensuring disabled family members retain government benefits while receiving inheritance.

Comprehensive Elder Law & Estate Planning

From Medicaid planning to special needs trusts, we provide the legal guidance families need during life's most challenging transitions.

Elder Law & Medicaid

Protect your life savings while qualifying for long-term care benefits. We specialize in asset protection strategies and crisis planning for families facing nursing home admissions.

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Estate Planning

Wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and living wills tailored to your family's unique needs—traditional or non-traditional. Flat-fee pricing for predictable costs.

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Special Needs Planning

Ensure your loved one with disabilities maintains government benefits while receiving inheritance. Expert guidance on third-party trusts, OBRA trusts, and ABLE accounts.

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Probate

Navigate the court process with confidence. We represent executors and trustees, handling everything from probate administration to trust settlements.

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Legal Expertise Meets Genuine Compassion

Zisl Edelson brings a unique combination of credentials and character—a J.D. and M.B.A. from the University of Chicago, paired with the empathy and patience that turns complex legal processes into manageable journeys.

Dual Expertise: Law + Finance

Understanding both legal requirements and financial implications means smarter strategies for protecting your assets.

Compassionate "Bedside Manner"

Named after the Yiddish word for "sweet," Zisl is repeatedly praised for empathy during family crises and sensitive situations.

Transparent Flat-Fee Pricing

Know exactly what you'll pay upfront. Most estate planning services offered on a predictable flat-fee basis.

Direct Access to the Founder

You work directly with Zisl Edelson, not junior associates. Boutique service with specialized expertise.

Attorney Zisl Edelson in his Skokie law office

Your Path to Peace of Mind

We've designed a straightforward process that removes confusion and puts you in control.

1

Initial Consultation

Call 847-410-9131 to schedule your paid consultation. We'll discuss your situation, goals, and concerns. Consultation fee credited toward services if retained.

2

Strategy Development

We analyze your unique circumstances and develop a tailored legal strategy—whether that's Medicaid planning, estate documents, or trust administration.

3

Implementation & Support

We handle the paperwork, court filings, and bureaucratic processes. You receive ongoing support and clear communication every step of the way.

Need Urgent Assistance?

If you're facing a crisis situation—nursing home admission, hospital discharge planning, or time-sensitive Medicaid deadlines—we offer house and hospital calls.

What Families Say About Working With Us

★★★★★

"Zisl helped us navigate my mother's Medicaid application during an incredibly stressful time. His patience and expertise were invaluable—he explained everything clearly and held our hand through the entire process. We saved the family home thanks to his guidance."

R
Rebecca S.

Medicaid Planning Client

★★★★★

"After my husband passed, I was overwhelmed by the probate process. Zisl's flat-fee pricing gave me peace of mind about costs, and his compassionate approach made a difficult time manageable. He genuinely cares about his clients."

M
Margaret K.

Estate Administration Client

★★★★★

"Setting up a special needs trust for our daughter was complex, but Zisl made it understandable. His knowledge of government benefits and Illinois Medicaid rules is exceptional. We finally have confidence in our daughter's financial future."

D
David and Linda M.

Special Needs Planning Clients

10+
Years Practicing Elder Law
40+
Client Reviews
5.0
Star Average Rating
100%
Focus on Elder Law

Common Questions About Elder Law & Estate Planning

Do you offer free consultations?

We offer paid initial consultations, which allows us to provide substantive guidance from the very first meeting. The consultation fee is typically credited toward your services if you choose to retain us.

How much does estate planning cost?

We offer transparent flat-fee pricing for most estate planning services, so you know exactly what you'll pay upfront. Costs vary based on the complexity of your situation—a basic will differs from a comprehensive trust-based plan. We'll provide a clear quote during your consultation.

Is it too late to protect assets if my parent is already in a nursing home?

It's rarely too late. While planning ahead gives us more options, crisis Medicaid planning can still protect significant assets even after nursing home admission. Illinois Medicaid rules include provisions for spousal protection and certain asset transfers. Contact us immediately for a consultation.

Can you meet with clients who cannot travel to your office?

Yes. We offer house and hospital visits for clients with mobility issues or those in care facilities. An additional travel charge may apply depending on location. We believe everyone deserves access to quality legal counsel.

Will a special needs trust affect my child's government benefits?

A properly drafted special needs trust supplements—rather than replaces—government benefits like SSI and Medicaid. The trust provides for quality of life needs (recreation, education, specialized care) while preserving eligibility for essential programs.

How long does probate take in Illinois?

Simple estates may be settled in 6-9 months, while complex estates can take 1-2 years or longer. Factors include estate size, number of beneficiaries, creditor claims, and whether anyone contests the will. We work efficiently while ensuring everything is done correctly.

Ready to Protect What Matters Most?

Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward securing your family's future with an attorney who genuinely cares.

Serving Skokie, Evanston, Lincolnwood, Niles, Morton Grove, Glenview, and surrounding Cook County communities