A Probate Attorney to Help When You Need It Most
Serving clients throughout the Chicago area
Palley Law Office offers one-on-one probate consultations at no charge
Need a probate attorney in Illinois?
Probate is the legal process for settling a deceased person’s estate—paying debts and distributing assets to beneficiaries. In most cases, Illinois probate courts require you to be represented by an attorney. At Palley Law Office, you’ll work directly with a probate attorney who understands how to move your case forward efficiently, helping you to comply with executor duties from opening to closing.
When Does Illinois Law Require Probate?
It all depends on how big the estate is: if the value of the estate is less than $100,000 and there is no real estate passing through a will (or through state intestacy law if there is no will), then Illinois does not require probate, although it may still be advisable in certain situations. On the other hand, if the value of the estate is greater than $100, 000, or there is real estate passing through a will or intestacy, then Illinois requires probate. It can be a tricky question–it’s best to consult with a probate attorney on your particular circumstances.
Executor Duties
While navigating probate can feel overwhelming, you don’t have to do it alone. The probate attorney at Palley Law Office reduces the stress of being an executor by guiding you through every step, explaining executor duties and helping you to:
- File the will after a death
- Prepare and file the initial probate petition
- Make sure heirs and other interested parties are properly notified
- Locate, organize, and value estate assets
- Coordinate appraisals when needed
- Handle creditor claims and resolving outstanding debts
- Distribute assets according to the will or court orders
- Prepare and submit final accountings to the court
- Manage court filings and documentation
- Fully close the estate
Why Choose Palley Law Office?
- Local Knowledge – Based in Chicago, I understand Cook County and collar county probate rules.
- Clear Communication – I explain every step in plain language.
- Efficient Resolution – I aim to move the process forward without unnecessary delays.
What Does Probate Cost?
Costs vary but include court fees, attorney fees, and expenses related to notifying creditors. Attorneys generally charge by the hour for probate-related services, and some may offer a flat fee. In the Chicago area, expect to spend between $4000 – $8000 to probate a routine, uncontested estate. For example, for an estate with a value of $500,000 this equates to a transaction cost of approximately 1% to 2% percent of the value of the estate.
Beyond legal transaction costs, there are non-legal transaction costs associated with the disposition of assets. One example is the sale of real estate. Often, a decedent’s home is sold so that the proceeds of the sale can be distributed to the children or other beneficiaries. This involves paying a real estate broker commission of 5% to 6% plus the cost of closing on the sale.
To get a better idea of expenses related to probate in your case, schedule a free call with the Palley Law Office. If payment of a security retainer is an issue, my office offers a “pay later” option that allows you to finance the retainer with later reimbursement of the expense out of the estate.
Need Help With Probate?
I am a Chicago probate attorney simplifying the complex probate process for clients across the Chicago metropolitan area. The Palley Law Office offers one-on-one probate planning sessions at no charge.
Read my recent blog post which contains a step-by-step guide to probate for executors.
