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Illinois Probate and Estate Law 2020 | Recent Changes to Illinois Estate and Probate Law
Article written by Illinois & Iowa Attorney Kevin O’Flaherty
In this article, we explain Illinois Probate and Estate Law 2020 as well as recent changes to Illinois Estate and Probate Law. We answer:
- What is Probate?;
- When is Probate necessary?;
- What is the Illinois Probate Process?; and
- Recent changes to Probate in Illinois.
What is Probate?
Probate is a court case that oversees the process of collecting and disbursing the assets of an individual’s estate once he or she has passed away. If the deceased (known from here on as the decedent) had a valid will and named someone to manage his or her estate, the court will appoint this person as executor of the estate, as long as he or she is fit to take on the role. If the decedent did not have a will, the court will appoint an administrator to fulfill the responsibilities of an executor until the case comes to an end. The purpose of probate is to account for the decedent’s entire estate and allocate said estate in accordance with the wishes of the deceased, once any and all debts of the decedent are paid.
