Probate

Probate

Probate is the court-managed proceeding where assets are retitled and distributed according to a will or the law of intestacy (a situation wherein a person passes away without a will). The Illinois probate process can be time-consuming, frustrating, and stressful for everyone involved, particularly when you factor in the grief that accompanies losing a loved one. While no two probates are the same, here is a partial list of the duties typically required to probate an estate:
  • Locate and file the Last Will and Testament with the local court
  • File required probate documents with the court
  • Locate, inventory, custody, close and transfer personal assets/accounts
  • Appraise and value all assets
  • Pay debts and expenses associated with the last illness and funeral
  • Ascertain, and notify, all known creditors of the estate
  • Make payments to creditors, discharge obligations and obtain creditor releases
  • Process and receive life insurance death benefits
  • Secure personal residence and tangible personal property
  • File appropriate tax returns (federal and Illinois) and make appropriate tax elections
  • Pay estate taxes and final personal income taxes
  • Obtain tax releases and closing letters from local courts, the IRS and state taxing authorities
  • Make specific bequests, as well as partial and final distributions to beneficiaries (including packing and shipping of tangible personal property)
  • Provide complete detailed accounting to the local court and estate beneficiaries

As you can imagine, the process is difficult enough without the added stress and grief of coping with the loss of a loved one.

Fortunately, you do not have to go through this complicated process alone. We are here to guide you and your family through the process with sensitivity and compassion. We also make sure that no one is taking advantage of the process and we make sure to prevent financial exploitation. Our firm often works with financial experts to help valuate assets and we will take the necessary steps to complete the probate process effectively. Contact us today to learn how we can be of service during this difficult time.

Probate:

Guardianship Litigation
Guardianship Administration
Estate Administration