If you have ever heard the word “probate” and felt a little uneasy, you are not alone. Most people picture a long, expensive legal process that drags on for years after a loved one passes away. However, the good news is that probate in Illinois is often more manageable than people expect, especially with guidance from an experienced Hillside Wills, Trusts and Probate attorney.
If you are thinking about estate planning in 2026, or you have recently been named to handle a loved one’s estate, here are some important things to know.
What Is Probate and How Does It Work in Illinois?
Probate is a legal proceeding that is sometimes required after someone dies. A court oversees the collection of the deceased person’s property, the payment of their debts and taxes, and then the distribution of whatever remains to the right people. The person in charge of managing all of this is called the “Executor”, if the person left a will, or the “Administrator” if they did not leave a will.