Articles From Joanna M. Lekkas

Social Security benefits not so beneficial to widows receiving government pensions By Joanna M. Lekkas Women and the Law, March 2012 Many government employees may not realize that their social security benefits are reduced by two-thirds of their government pension.
The new Civil Union Act and its effect on the Illinois Probate Act By Joanna M. Lekkas Women and the Law, November 2011 While intestacy laws may protect surviving spouses who are parties to a civil union, it is important to keep in mind that only six states recognize these unions. Therefore, estate planning for disability and death remain important tools for same-sex couples.
The new Civil Union Act and its effect on the Illinois Probate Act By Joanna M. Lekkas Trusts and Estates, November 2011 While intestacy laws may protect surviving spouses who are parties to a civil union, it is important to keep in mind that only six states recognize these unions. Therefore, estate planning for disability and death remain important tools for same-sex couples.
A casual conversation with Presiding Judge Mary Ellen Coghlan of the Cook County Probate Division By Gregg A. Garofalo & Joanna M. Lekkas Trusts and Estates, October 2011 This past June, the Trusts & Estates council members and practitioners met with the Honorable Judge Mary Ellen Coghlan at Clark Hill PLC over breakfast. Among the topics discussed were the newly enacted Civil Union Act, administrative policies within the courtrooms, attorney and guardian ad litem fees and the Probate Code in general.

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