Peck Ritchey, LLC Managing Partner Kerry R. Peck recently appeared on FOX 32 News regarding the hotly contested Ernie Banks will contest case.

The Chicago Cubs’ most valuable player’s family is feuding with his “trusted confidant,” a 56-year old lounge singer, Regina Rice, who inherits his entire estate. According to Court records, Ernie Banks signed estate planning documents in October 2014 and died in January 2015.

“As the case moves forward it will be interesting to see if Mr. Cub had the mental capacity to sign his will and trust, or if he was unduly influenced,” said Peck.

Ernie Banks’ children and his estranged fourth wife live in California. Probate court records from Jan. 28 indicate Bank’s estranged wife, Liz Banks, was originally awarded control over the estate, claiming Banks had died without a will.  Shortly thereafter, Rice filed a petition disclosing the existence of a will.

Will contests and estate battles don’t only happen to celebrities. Anyone who doesn’t do their due diligence in properly executing their estate planning documents (will, trust, powers of attorney, etc.) and informing their family could face a similar situation in probate court. To learn more about how to protect your assets and ensure your wishes are met contact one of Peck Ritchey, LLC’s estate planning attorneys at 312-201-0900.

Kerry Peck concentrates his practice in Trust and Estate Litigation, Estate Planning, Administration, Guardianship and Fiduciary Litigation, and Special Needs and Alzheimer’s Disease Planning. Peck is a past President of the 22,000-lawyer Chicago Bar Association. He was retained by the City of Chicago Department of Aging to rewrite the State of Illinois Elder Abuse and Neglect Act. He co-wrote the book  Alzheimer’s and the Law, published by the American Bar Association, and is a frequent speaker at continuing education seminars for attorneys and healthcare professionals across the country.


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.

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

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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.

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