Scene: The North Pole, late Christmas Eve. The elves are finishing the last toy deliveries. Santa is double-checking his list. Mrs. Claus walks in with a mug of hot cocoa.

Mrs. Claus: Santa, before you head out… have you ever thought about what would happen if you slipped on a roof?

Santa: Ho ho—wait, what? I’ve got boots with great traction!

Mrs. Claus: I’m serious. You’re flying around the world in one night, running a massive operation, and you don’t even have a plan written down.

Santa: I’ve got a list. I check it twice.

Mrs. Claus: That’s not an estate plan.

Even Santa Needs a Plan

As funny as it sounds, Mrs. Claus has a point. If something unexpected happens, having a clear plan makes all the difference — whether you run a toy workshop or just want to protect your family.

Estate planning isn’t about being gloomy during the holidays. It’s about making sure:

• The people you love are taken care of
• Decisions don’t end up in court
• Everyone knows who’s in charge and what your wishes are

In Illinois, the right documents can save families time, stress, and unnecessary expense.

Santa: Fine. But everything would just go to you, right?

Mrs. Claus: Not automatically. And what about the reindeer? The workshop? The elves? Have you even named powers of attorney?

Santa: …I knew I should’ve listened last year.

The Holiday Questions Worth Asking

Around Christmas, families naturally reflect on the year and the future. It’s a good time to ask yourself:

• Do I have an up-to-date will or trust under Illinois law?
• Have I named healthcare and financial powers of attorney?
• Are my beneficiaries current?
• Would my family know what to do if something happened tomorrow?

If the answer to any of these is “I’m not sure,” you’re not alone — and it’s fixable.

Mrs. Claus: I don’t want our family guessing what you would have wanted.

Santa: You’re right. I want peace of mind — for you, for the elves, and for Christmas itself.

The Best Gift Isn’t Under the Tree

You don’t need to ruin the holiday mood to take care of important things. A simple conversation and a solid plan can be one of the most meaningful gifts you give your family.

This Christmas, consider giving your loved ones something better than socks: clarity, protection, and peace of mind.

If you have questions about your estate plan or a probate matter, contact the Law Office of Jonathan W. Cole P.C. at (708) 529-7794 — Your Neighborhood Law Firm.

🎅 Wishing you and your family a joyful, safe, and well-planned Christmas.