Centralia is a city located in Marion, Washington, Clinton, and Jefferson Counties in the U.S. state of Illinois. The population was 14,136 at the 2000 census. The town was founded because it was the point where the two original branches of the Illinois Central Railroad, built in 1856, converged. The town is named for the railroad. The current mayor is Rebecca Ault. Because of its unique location within multiple counties, portions of Centralia are associated with different Core Based Statistical Areas (CBSAs). The Centralia Micropolitan Statistical Area includes all of Marion County. The Clinton County portion of the city is considered part of the St. Louis, MO–IL Metropolitan Statistical Area, while the Jefferson County portion lies within the Mt. Vernon Micropolitan Statistical Area. The portion of Centralia in Washington County is not considered part of any metropolitan or micropolitan area.

What is estate planning and probate law?

Estate planning is the process of anticipating and arranging for the disposal of an estate. Estate planning typically attempts to eliminate uncertainties over the administration of a probate and maximize the value of the estate by reducing taxes and other expenses. Estate planning attorneys advise clients on their options for disposition of real and personal property after death, and create any number of necessary documents pertaining to the estate and finances of the client -- including wills and trusts. Estate planning law attorneys also assist clients in setting out their end-of-life health care wishes through living wills and health care powers of attorney.

Answers to estate planning and probate law issues in Illinois

The law dealing with estates governs the passing of the property of people who have passed away as well as people...

In the administration of any estate of a person who has passed away, there may be significant tax consequences. An...

When a person dies, someone must step in to wind up the deceased persons affairs. Bills must be paid, property must...

An executor is the person you name in your will to handle your property after death. The executor--called a personal...

A trust is an arrangement under which one person, called the trustee, holds legal title to property on behalf of...

The federal government imposes estate taxes only if your property is worth more than a certain amount at your death...

Every adult should have a will. A will makes sure that your property goes where you want it to go, and makes the...