Where do I file a will in Cook County?

Where do I file a will in Cook County?

The proper place for filing a will and opening the decedent’s probate estate is generally at the courthouse in the county where the decedent last resided and intended to remain. So if they lived in Cook County, but died at their winter home in Florida or on vacation somewhere, Cook County would be the court location.

What county is Chicago Illinois in?

Cook County

How do you get a certified copy of a will in Illinois?

Once the will is filed, you may obtain certified copies of the will from the clerk’s office. Executors of Estates often need to present certified copies to banks and other financial institutions.

Does a will have to be filed in Illinois?

Illinois law requires that upon the death of a Testator his/her Will must be filed with the local Clerk of Court within 30 days of the date of the Testator’s death. Once the Executor is able to locate the original Will, he/she can then properly file it with the Clerk of Court of the proper county.

How long do you have to file probate after death in Illinois?

six months

How do I avoid probate in Illinois?

In Illinois, you can make a living trust to avoid probate for virtually any asset you own—real estate, bank accounts, vehicles, and so on. You need to create a trust document (it’s similar to a will), naming someone to take over as trustee after your death (called a successor trustee).

Do I need a lawyer for probate in Illinois?

The Illinois Probate Act does not require the representative of an estate to hire a lawyer. That said, practicalities may make a lawyer necessary, even if the representative would rather not hire one.

What is the threshold for probate in Illinois?

$100,000

Can I do probate myself?

You can fill in the probate application form ‘PA1P’ yourself, or call the probate and inheritance tax helpline to get help filling in the form.

Do all executors have to apply for probate?

Not all of the Executors named in a Will have to apply for Probate, although this can sometimes be the most logical option. If some Executors choose not to be involved in the administration of the Estate, then they have a couple of options, as we explain below.