Illinois Probate and Estate Administration Attorneys
DuPage County Estate Planning Lawyers
At Roberts & Caruso, we are a leading Illinois law firm providing comprehensive representation for estate planning matters including probate and estate administration. We enjoy a high rate of referrals from other probate attorneys because they trust our handling of probate issues. Trust Roberts & Caruso for your probate and estate administration needs.
Our attorneys cannot stress enough the importance of retaining knowledgeable legal representation for navigating the probate process. The complexities involved require attorneys that regularly practice in this area of law. When you are dealing with the loss of those you love, choose our firm to stand by your side. We never forget that a probate case begins with the loss of a loved one, an emotional time for clients, and our experienced attorneys know how to make the process more comfortable for the clients. The court system can be impersonal, but we always keep a human touch with our clients so that the client does not feel left out of the process.
Understanding Probate in Illinois
In Illinois, probate court is used to ensure that assets of a deceased person are correctly distributed to concerned parties such as a spouse, children, adopted children, siblings, or other heirs or legatees. Additionally, such proceedings determine how outstanding debts of the deceased will be paid. The executor of an estate who is named in a will usually begins the probate process by filing documents in court in the county where the deceased person died or had his last residence.
Probate proceedings are not always required. For example, those who establish enforceable trusts may bypass the probate process altogether. If the deceased had limited assets in his estate, probate can also be avoided by a Small Estate Affidavit used to handle the small estate. Some assets may be titled in a manner that avoids the probate process, including:
- Accounts that are payable after death
- Assets held in joint tenancy
- Transfer on death real estate deeds
- Some life insurance policies
Nevertheless, in some situations, distributing your estate through the probate court has some advantages over avoiding going through probate in the court system. Please contact Roberts & Caruso to discuss the estate plan that fits the particular needs of your family.
Navigating Probate Issues and Providing Complete Administration
There are a number of activities that take place in probate. Besides asset distribution and debt management, there may be tax obligations that must be handled. At times, other issues may arise such as contested estates, wills and trusts.
A comprehensive, enforceable estate plan is of paramount importance. Our firm can help you properly set up your estate plan. We stand by our work and can defend you in probate litigation matters, should they arise. We also provide legal counsel and representation for estate administration, probate administration and the establishment of guardianships.
Please contact Roberts & Caruso to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your probate and estate administration matter. If you decide to retain our attorneys, we will be pleased to help you navigate your legal concerns. We provide flexible appointment times at our offices in Wheaton and Chicago, Illinois. We are ready to serve you today.