Cicero Guardianship Litigation LawyersOur aging population has created some unique concerns for families with older members. Peck Ritchey, LLC is a boutique legal firm that provides Cicero, IL with focused assistance in guardianship, probate, estate planning, and elder law. When an older or special needs family member requires legal help, we can offer you compassionate, knowledgeable advice on how to handle their needs.

We have over 100 combined years’ experience in the practice of elder law and guardianship litigation, and our team knows that these are emotionally charged times for everyone involved. Let us help you and your family through these matters and reach a solution that’s in everyone’s best interests.

Table Of Contents

    Practice Areas

    We practice exclusively in the areas of probate, trust, and guardianship law so that we can provide our clients with the best advice we can in these areas. Our attorneys can help with litigation in these types of cases:

    • Estate Planning. Arranging the disposition of your estate, or that of a loved one is not something people want to think about, but it needs to be done early so that your family is provided for later. If changes must be made, we will have a record of your plan that can be updated when necessary.
    • Administration of Estates, Trusts, and Guardianships. When it is time to execute the will or administer the trust, you’ll want to have appointed someone you have confidence in to ensure that everyone is paid, including creditors and business interests.
    • Probate, Trust, and Guardianship Litigation. No matter how carefully these matters are planned beforehand, there may be unforeseen legal challenges when a will is probated or a trust executed. Such cases are always emotional and complicated, but we can help you through them with care and compassion.
    • Alzheimer’s Disease Planning. This most frightening of diagnoses means not only watching a loved one fade away but many years of medical bills and nursing care. We can help soften the blow by assisting with financial planning and powers of attorney while you and your loved ones can still make those decisions together.
    • Guardianship Administration. Having a guardianship in place does not end the matter. A guardianship must be reviewed periodically by the courts to ensure the subject is being properly cared for and their interests met. Financial documents must be kept in order, and the subject’s needs provided for. We can help the guardian with these administrative details.
    • Guardianship Litigation. Not every guardianship runs smoothly. In cases of breach of duty, abuse, exploitation, or removal of the guardian, it may be necessary to return to court to have the case reviewed by a judge. If you believe a guardianship is being mishandled, we can help have the case seen in court and the rights of the subject protected.
    • Elder Law. For the elderly, the end of life has become a balance between quality and quantity. We provide assistance in end-of-life care planning and assisted living planning, so that powers of attorney, financial planning, and other matters are in place before you must make those last decisions.
    • Elder Abuse, Neglect, and Financial Exploitation. It is unfortunate that there are criminals who prey on the most helpless among us, but Peck Ritchey, LLC is here to help you fight them. When you believe you or your family members have been a victim of such abuse, our team knows the laws that protect the elderly from crimes against them.
    • Asset Protection. Do you know the rules about when and to whom you can transfer real estate, stock options, or business ownership? Not many people do. Our attorneys can help you protect your assets during your lifetime, and ensure your heirs and beneficiaries receive the things you want them to have after you are gone.
    • Nursing Home Abuse/Neglect. This especially heinous area of negligence requires both compassion and vigorous advocacy. We will provide both if you believe that you have experienced such an act.
    • Special Needs Planning. A family member with special needs is an extra challenge. They will need a lifetime’s care and support that will still allow them to receive the public benefits to which they are entitled. We can help you craft a trust which will let them have the most independence with the best quality of life they can obtain.
    • Corporate Law, including Small and Family Business Planning. If you have a family business, it will be an important part of your estate planning. We can help you ensure that the disposition of your business is included in whatever final plans you make, and nothing gets overlooked or forgotten.

    Our Team

    Cicero Guardianship Litigation LawyersManaging Partner Kerry R. Peck received his degree from Chicago-Kent College of Law. He has been honored by the state of Illinois for his work in elder law and was appointed Chair of the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Elder Justice in 2021. He is the author of numerous articles on the subject of Alzheimer’s disease and the legal system.

    Timothy J. Ritchey has been appointed Special Assistant Attorney General to represent the State of Illinois in numerous matters regarding healthcare and disability law. He has testified as an expert on elder abuse and financial exploitation before the Illinois Senate. Mr. Ritchey graduated from Chicago-Kent College of Law with honors.

    Why You Need an Attorney

    Even the simplest of wills should be reviewed by an attorney to ensure all the formalities are met. A valid will in Illinois requires two signatures of independent witnesses, both of whom must sign in the presence of the person making the will.

    For more complicated matters such as those described above, it is always best if you have legal assistance. When arranging a living trust, setting up a special needs or long-term care trust, or making any financial plans for the future, you should have someone at your side who understands the requirements that make the documents legal.

    Contact Us

    Things like guardianships should never be attempted by yourself. A guardianship is an attempt to legally restrict the civil or personal liberties of another person and cannot be done without providing specific evidence that that person is unable to care for their own needs. You should always consult a legal professional who understands the requirements before attempting such litigation.

    If you need advice in this legal area, you should contact Peck Ritchey, LLC at (855) 328-5787. We will provide the compassionate and thorough assistance you need for the financial and emotional decisions you must make. Contact our office today.


    Testimonials

    Attorney Kyle Fahey handled our matter with skill and professionalism, and was always responsive. 10/10, would work with him and the firm again.

    –Jon T.

    The peace of mind that Peck Ricthey’s office has given me is worth every penny. The services they provided me and my family in an emergency medical situation is beyond outstanding. Last minute notice, Peter Brady and team were compassionate, understanding and most importantly efficient and got the job done. Look no further if you have any needs that this office can provide for you. Definitely in good hands! Thank you, a thousand times over for all of your help.

    –Christine K.

    Very responsive and knowledgeable at handling our brother’s estate. Would definitely recommend!

    –Ralph C.

    I solicited Peck Ritchey, LLC for assistance with a living trust for which I became the beneficiary. I needed assistance with understanding the details of how it all worked. However, I was especially concerned because there were threats of allegations made by family members and a lawsuit was filed against me. I needed a solid professional who had my best interests in mind. Peter Brady took my case and he managed it flawlessly. He explained everything in a way I could understand, he knew the law inside and out, he was always available to answer questions, and even offer support when things seemed like they could become extremely problematic. In addition to this, he had a plan. He navigated the course as if he already knew the next move by the opposing attorney. He made me feel like everything was in control and that’s because he knew exactly what he was doing and he consulted with me about everything. We ended up settling out of court and ultimately the court officially dismissed the lawsuit. I honestly believe if it wasn’t for Peter and his expertise this could have gone in an entirely different direction. Peter did a stellar job and I couldn’t be more pleased and impressed with his performance.

    –John T.

    Tim Ritchey is as smart, honest, and genuine as they come. He truly puts helping people above making money. If you have a need, don’t hesitate to hire him.

    –Jay T.

    Due to the nature of our case, the law firm Peck Ritchey was recommended to us by another probate attorney for our Will contest. Kerry Peck and Kyle Fahey were very upfront and honest with us with respect to the potential outcome and the costs associated with their representation and any litigation. Although the chance of prevailing was minimal, a decision to move forward with their representation was made. They developed and executed upon a strategy that addressed our wishes for the best possible outcome and they delivered! We could not be happier. Both attorneys are extremely good listeners and communicators. Further, the team supporting them has been very accommodating to our needs. We would highly recommend this firm.

    –Sandy K.

    Tim and his staff was very helpful with my estate planning. I appreciated his thorough nature. I would recommend Peck Ritchey to others looking for estate planning.

    –M.S.

    My experience was flawless and very professional. Would highly recommend.

    –-N.S.

    I worked with Jesse Footlik and he was great! He was so easy to work with, explained our options clearly, and had true heart for the matter. I could tell he cares about the people he works with, and searches for solutions that will fit best with their circumstances.

    –L.K.

    Tim and his team exude professionalism, timeliness, and have a unique dedication to client needs. It is a pleasure working with them. For estate planning, succession planning, or just a general factfinding conversation about what they may be able to do for you, there is no one better in the area.

    –S.H.

    Kerry Peck with Kyle Fahey did outstanding work helping settle a difficult, complicated, contentious and sensitive personal matter. They were available by phone, email and text at all times during the day, night and weekend to quickly resolve the matter with the best outcome possible for their client. Thank you!

    –S.S.

    I cannot say enough wonderful things about this firm. The professionalism, knowledge, skills, attention to details, and constant updates were above my expectations. And the bonus was having a better outcome than I could have imagined. Jesse & Nick managed an emotional and difficult situation with care and respect. They are a top-notch team with excellent customer service and have very fair and reasonable prices. I would not hesitate to use this firm for any of your needs.

    –Debbie M.

    Peck Ritchey did an excellent job of resolving a very difficult estate matter.

    –Scott S., Barrington Hills, IL

    Thank you so much for your consistent attention to our case this past year. We were fairly small potatoes, yet you actually ‘got back’ and stayed on it. There were times when the government seemed to drop the ball more than my little league outfield, but my attorney was there. I realize that you actually went beyond the scope; I truly do appreciate your work.

    –Kirt G., Chicago, IL

    My family is so grateful for the positive outcome in my mother’s guardianship trial that had divided our family. Tim Ritchey and the Peck Ritchey team were very professional and thorough in stepping up in an emergency situation and preparing for trial. Peck Ritchey provided us with the peace of mind that my mother will be cared for throughout the rest of her life.

    –Kevin G. Chicago, IL

    Peck Ritchey both represents us defending our funding decisions, but also represents the best in leadership and support for issues that can change the quality of life of older persons. We are grateful that we are represented by a group of thoughtful and skilled experts on the law, and great colleagues in making the law work for our older clientele.

    –Jon L., Oak Park, IL

    I was Legal Guardian and Executor for mother who had passed away 12 years ago. There were two wills. One my mom wrote and another an aunt forced her to change while she had dementia. My former attorney advised me to pay the surety bond for all these years. He lost the original will and the file and closed down his office. My brother who was on SSI was still living in my mother’s apartment, and the estate was left to my mother’s four children. One sister wanted us to buy her out. She was impossible. Peck Ritchey worked with sister’s attorney, helped my brother and closed the estate with all its complications in a few months. We were all concerned that this would turn into a legal mess but they were true professionals, kind, caring and answered all our questions. This the law firm you want on your side. I highly recommend them regarding estates, legal guardianships and drawing up wills.

    –Ellie W., Chicago, IL
    Accolades to Peck Ritchey (in particular, Ron Webb), for handling our estate issues professionally and expediently. We connected after attending a very informative presentation on estate planning, offered to retired educators. Everything was explained thoroughly, encouraging us to seek Ron Webb’s assistance and expertise. Thank you for a valuable experience and for giving us peace of mind for the future.
    –Myrna B., Palos Heights, IL

    Peck Ritchey was there with great advice when my family most needed it the most. They got my daughter’s guardianship done on time, and referred us to an expert social worker so we could get her cases through the complicated government systems. The social worker found that the trust put together by others were not in order. Peck Ritchey made new trust documents or amended existing trusts as needed and improved other existing documents. What I appreciate most is they explained it in plain English so I could understand what had to be and what has been done. I am grateful for everything they did and how they did it!

    –Victor O., Chicago, IL

    Very professional handling of my mother’s estate. Ron was there every step of the way and so were his paralegals I might add – from coming to Rush University when my mom was too sick to come to the office, and taking my phone calls, and always answering my questions, I can’t thank him enough! I am truly grateful for the wonderful experience with Peck Ritchey especially since it is already stressful enough when a loved one is ill. Thank you so much! We will be using your firm for our own estate planning in the very near future, I would definitely recommend Peck Ritchey.

    –Brenda S., Crystal Lake, IL

    Peck Ritchey’s guidance in planning my affairs was practical and easy to understand. They drafted a plan for me that was complete and would grow with me as my future needs develop. I feel confident that our planning would handle any situation that could arise and that if an unforeseen event would occur, Peck Ritchey would be accessible to swiftly handle any additional work.

    –Mike T., Highland Park, IL

    Thank you so much for all of your work and time you spent in facilitating the purchase of our first home. I know we provided you with a short deadline and we appreciate both of you making it happen. The Escrow Officer commented on how seamless everything was for our close. We are extremely grateful for all of your effort. Thank you again!

    –Steve T and Anna C

    Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik represented me in an extremely complex and litigious trust dispute involving numerous parties. After several years of litigation, the case was settled with a very successful outcome.

    Kerry and his team of diligent attorneys help develop creative and detailed strategies that proved to be an excellent solution and produced the results I was hoping to achieve. During the duration of the lawsuit, communication with the attorneys was timely and thorough. Their passion and attention to detail was genuine and unwavering during the entire ordeal. I was very fortunate to have the Peck Ritchey team for representation and it was a great experience working with them. Knowing that the stakes were extremely high in the trust dispute Peck Ritchey, LLC was the right firm to handle a litigious case of this magnitude.

    –Harvey C, Chicago

    I wanted to express my gratitude to you and your firm’s generosity for providing pro bono legal counsel for a client of mine. Brandon Peck and Kyle Fahey both provided excellent legal representation to an older client who did not have the financial resources for retaining private legal representation and could not obtain any pro bono legal representation from any agencies that support victims of domestic violence. Your firms generosity and willingness to assist a client in need is greatly appreciated. The outcome was what my client hope for and knowing that she will remain safe in her home was the best result. Thank you for the support and services your firm provided to the Adult Protective Service program at North Shore Senior Center.

    –Holly Lichtman, LCSWProgram Supervisor, Adult Protective Services

    If you want a great experience with your estate planning needs, then you owe it to yourself to visit with Ron Webb at Peck Ritchey.

    He explained all the intricacies of optimizing our estate planning needs in a knowledgeable and very friendly manner. It was truly a pleasure working with him and the staff at Peck Ritchey. We highly recommend their services.

    –Larry and Judy F., Crystal Lake, IL

    We would like to express our sincere gratitude to Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik for the professional and courteous manner in which Peck Richtey have assisted us during the past couple years. You will never know how much it meant to us.

    –Kathy S from Champaign

    I was referred to Peck Ritchey by a former judge after he heard the problems I was having in my case with my first attorney. Kerry Peck and Tim Ritchey are experienced and professional litigators who helped turn my case around for me. I wish I would have gone to them first. They helped me in a contested will and trust matter and were exceptional. I would recommend them highly for any estate, will, or trust matter!

    –J.F., Chicago

    We were extremely impressed with Peck Ritchey’s representation of us in complex litigation involving contested deeds, powers of attorney, and hundreds of acres of family farmland. Kerry Peck and Jesse Footlik were steadfast in their commitment to winning our case, which ultimately resulted in a tremendous settlement for us. Although our case was located in “downstate” Illinois, Kerry and Jesse’s timely and thorough communication made us feel like their office was right next door. We could not be more pleased with their services and the outcome of our case.

    –K.S and K.S., Edgar County, IL

    When my Mom passed, I discovered that a family member had changed Mom’s will after she had dementia. For almost two years, I worked closely with Tim Ritchey and Kyle Fahey. They presented such a compelling case and clearly had no fear of taking it to trial, that the opposing counsel caved on the day of trial. With his outstanding negotiating skills, Tim was able to balance just the right amount of pressure, patience, and professionalism to give us a substantial advantage at the settlement table. In addition to the huge settlement we won, I am so grateful to Kyle and Tim for their thoughtful, compassionate and dedicated approach to such a sad family conflict.

    –S.W.

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