Estate planning can be difficult. Surprises in a will can complicate things further (Part 1)

An elderly woman sits on a couch, embracing a young boy and girl, all beaming in their casual clothes. Their joyful gathering reflects the warmth often celebrated at Western Springs Estate Administration.

Handling the estate of a parent who has passed away can be very emotional for children, and this process can be even more emotionally tumultuous if their parent’s estate plan contains unexpected surprises. In cases where assets are not split evenly among children or there is an heir that comes forward that was not known …