Estate Administration
Probating the Estate of a deceased person.
Finalizing the affairs of a loved one after they pass away can be a daunting task. Let us help.
Estate Planning
What will happen when I die?
Our firm takes a wholistic approach to estate planning and help form a plan based on the unique circumstances of every client.
Real Estate
Buying or selling real estate is important.
Avoid common pitfalls of the real estate process with a skilled attorney advocating for you throughout the transaction.
About Woods & Bates, P.C.
Our firm focuses our practice on estate and trust administration, estate planning, and real estate matters. These can be emotionally taxing areas of law for clients. Our attorneys draw on decades of experience to guide you through the issues presented and will help put your mind at ease. At Woods & Bates, P.C., we understand the importance of flexibility in legal services. That's why we offer both virtual consultations and in-person meetings to accommodate your preferences and ensure a personalized experience.
Mission
To be a firm that gives purpose to employees, provides high quality representation to appreciative clients, and creates meaningful contributions to the communities we serve.
Vision
To be the preeminent Central Illinois rural law firm helping families to build, sustain, and preserve their legacies.
Firm Values
Courage
Stand up for what we believe in and be
brave in the face of all circumstances.
Wisdom
Never stop learning and stay up to date on
current legal trends and decisions.
Integrity
Be true to your word and do what you say you will do. Expect integrity in return in the form of payment for services rendered.
High Ambition
Be content, but never satisfied.
Abhor laziness.
Self-Control
Do not let others dictate the way we act. Maintaining a calm and clear mind helps to make wise decisions.
Courtesy
Be kind in all interactions with
others.
Responsiveness
Respond to all client contacts
within 24 hours.
Contact Woods & Bates for Your Legal Needs
Our History
1972
Woods & Bates Founded
Woods & Bates was founded by William C. Bates, Jr. and Robert J. Woods
2012
Acquired Harris & Harris
Harris & Harris was founded in 1921 by Judge Thomas Milton Harris and his son, Homer Blinn Harris.
2019
Acquired Culbertson & Allen, LLC
Branched out to a second office in Delavan, Illinois with the acquisition of Culbertson & Allen, LLC
2021
Acquired Phillip M. Kirby Law Office
Established a third office location in Mason City, Illinois.
Attorneys
What Our Clients Say
Fantastic Firm. As a financial advisor we work in unison with our local Estate Legal teams and Tax professionals . Woods & Bates are highly competent and always professional. They give efficient and timely advice to every client that we’ve worked together with and are always doing the most important thing in my mind.. looking out for their clients needs first!
Client
They couldn't have been more knowledgeable, professional and courteous with their time. I would and often do recommend to family and friends.
Client
They helped me with real estate issues I was having when purchasing a new home, also walked my wife and I though our will exactly how we wanted. I would highly recommend this firm for any needs you might need.
Client
Why Choose Us?
Community Minded
We live in the communities where we work and
understand local needs and concerns.
Integrity
We do exactly what we say we will do.
Timeliness
Your time is important and we understand the need to make timely progress on client matters.
