Probate & Estate Administration
Chicago Area Probate Attorneys Assisting with Estate Administration
Upon the death of a loved one, immediate action will be required to begin to address the estate. The home must be maintained, bills will come due — someone will need to see to these details. Then the task of documenting the estate and dividing the assets will begin.
The probate and estate administration process includes a host of small steps as well as a host of legal requirements. Each step must be completed in a certain order and in a timely fashion. The will must be filed. Reports must be made to the Illinois Probate Court. Taxes must be filed with the state and federal government.
At the Northbrook law office of Ciesla & Ciesla, our probate lawyers are skilled at guiding executors and personal representatives through the probate or estate administration process. We will ensure that all of the proper paperwork is filed with the court. We will assist with step-by-step guidance so that the estate is handled properly in order to minimize any risk of legal challenge or personal liability on the part of the executor.
At Ciesla & Ciesla, our probate attorneys can make the task of probating an estate manageable. Contact our office for prompt assistance.
The Process Depends Upon Prior Estate Planning
The actual process of probating an estate will depend upon whether your loved one had an estate plan in place at the time of death, and how that plan was organized.
- If There is a Will: If there is a valid will in place, the estate may need to go through the probate process. We will inform you of all legal requirements and deadlines. We will file papers with the court and handle all legal details. If you need tax assistance, we can suggest an estate tax attorney who can assist you.
- If There is a Trust: When more extensive estate planning has taken place, estate administration may be as simple as changing deeds and implementing the provisions of the trusts already in place.
- If There is no Estate Plan in Place: When no planning has been done whatsoever, the executor may need more extensive probate assistance, including locating heirs and assets.
Problems with an Estate
Any number of problems can become apparent when probating an estate. There may be a problem with title to property. A dispute may arise regarding heirship claims. If business succession plans were not yet put in place, confusion over ownership and management may be placing a successful business at risk.
At Ciesla & Ciesla, our probate attorneys handle probate litigation to resolve disputes. We are very experienced in all aspects of business law and can help heirs to a family-owned business resolve inheritance issues relating to business interests.
When you need help probating an Illinois estate in the Chicago metro area, contact our Northbrook law office to schedule a consultation.
