If you are searching for a Chicago, IL probate lawyer, start with a firm that blends legal skills with clear communication. Kravets Law Group offers years of combined probate and estate experience, bar admissions in Illinois and federal courts, and strong client feedback for responsiveness and practical guidance. Book a free consultation to review your situation, outline next steps, and develop a plan that respects your family and timeline.
Probate Lawyer Chicago, IL
Probate is the court process for transferring assets, paying valid debts, and closing an estate after someone passes. In Cook County and the surrounding courts, the steps can feel unfamiliar: opening an estate, appointing an executor or administrator, collecting and valuing assets, notifying heirs and creditors, managing claims, filing accountings, and distributing what remains in accordance with a will or state law. Families often arrive with grief and questions about titles, accounts, and deadlines. Our first job is to listen, then organize the path forward.
Our estate lawyers begin by confirming whether formal probate is required or if a small estate affidavit or summary procedures will suffice. Next, we inventory assets and identify those that pass outside probate, such as beneficiary designations or jointly titled property. That distinction matters because it affects timelines, taxes, and what paperwork you truly need. Our trust lawyers help locate and consolidate information, from deeds and financial statements to vehicle titles and insurance policies, and set up practical tools like estate accounts to keep funds separate and records clean.
Common pain points include disputes over a will’s validity, confusion about fiduciary duties, missed claim deadlines, and unexpected creditor activity. Our probate attorneys address these by explaining roles and responsibilities in plain terms, preparing notices correctly, meeting statutory timelines, and resolving claims with documentation rather than guesswork. If a challenge arises over capacity or undue influence, we gather medical records, witness statements, and drafting files to present a clear picture of the decedent’s intent. Real estate adds another layer. We coordinate valuations, handle title issues, and prepare closings that align with court approvals, so sales do not stall.
Taxes and accounting are frequent stressors. We coordinate with your tax professional on final income returns and, when applicable, estate tax filings. Our team prepares interim and final accountings that are clear to the court and to family members seeking a transparent view of receipts and disbursements. Throughout, you receive a calendar of milestones, drafts before filings, and status updates so you know where things stand. If you need a Chicago probate lawyer who treats each estate with care and keeps the court process moving, we are ready to help.
Why Experience Matters In Probate
Seasoned probate counsel keeps a steady hand on deadlines, creditor claims, and family communication. The result is a file that moves through Cook County courts with clean notices, complete accountings, and sales that close on time, all while reducing stress for the person serving as executor or administrator. Our law team has:
- Experience in probate and estate administration across Cook, Lake, DuPage, and Will Counties, including contested matters.
- Attorneys trained in estate planning and administration who present financial and legal details in everyday language.
- Positive peer and client feedback for clear communication and dependable results.
- Collaboration with accountants, realtors, and financial institutions to keep filings accurate and sales on schedule.
“I’ve collaborated with Daniel Kravets on matters multiple times, and he’s an excellent attorney for corporate needs. He’s extremely dependable for reviewing commercial contracts and for corporate structuring. I highly recommend Daniel and his firm for anyone looking for an attorney for their business.” – Ilya Zlatkin
Kravets Law Group helps you open the estate, secure assets, answer creditor questions, and complete distributions with confidence. Book a free consultation and let us guide you through probate with steady communication and a clear plan.
Types of Probate Services We Offer
When a loved one passes away, there are many legal and financial matters that need to be addressed. Probate can be a necessary step in this process, and fortunately, your Chicago, IL probate lawyer will help you manage your estate properly from start to finish. At Kravets Law Group, have over 10 years of experience in estate planning law, and we’re ready to use our experience to help you. Read on to see our probate services, and contact us today to get started.
Estate Administration
We assist with carrying out the terms of a will, collecting assets, paying valid debts, and distributing property to heirs. Our goal is to make sure the estate is handled in a way that respects the wishes of the deceased while meeting all legal requirements.
Probate Court Filings
Probate often requires filings with the court to open the estate, provide inventories, and submit accountings. Your executor lawyer can handle these filings on your behalf so deadlines are met and the process moves forward without delay.
Asset Valuation And Inventory
Part of probate involves gathering and valuing the assets in an estate. Your Chicago probate lawyer can prepare clear inventories and work with financial professionals when needed to confirm accurate values for real estate, investments, and personal property.
Debt And Creditor Claims
An estate may have debts that need to be settled before distributions are made. Your estate settlement lawyer will review claims from creditors, determine their validity, and address them according to probate law. This helps protect heirs and beneficiaries from future disputes.
Will Validation
When a will is submitted for probate, the court must confirm it is legally valid. We guide clients through this process and respond to any challenges that may arise regarding the signing, witnesses, or intent of the will.
Guardianship And Conservatorship Matters
Sometimes probate involves caring for minors or incapacitated adults. In these cases, the court may appoint a guardian or conservator. We assist families in preparing the petitions and fulfilling the responsibilities of these roles.
Distribution Of Assets
Once debts and taxes are paid, the estate can be distributed. We help prepare deeds, transfer titles, and ensure property is passed in accordance with the will or state law if there is no will.
Handling Disputes
Disagreements among heirs or questions about a will can arise during probate. Your estate executor lawyer can help you resolve these disputes, whether through negotiation or in court – with the goal of protecting the rights of the estate and its beneficiaries.
Trust Administration Support
Some estates involve trusts that work alongside probate. We provide guidance in administering these trusts, making sure assets are properly transferred and beneficiaries receive what was intended.
Contact Us Today To Get Started
At Kravets Law Group, we understand that probate can feel like a large responsibility at a difficult time. Our team is here to guide you through each step and manage the process on your behalf. We provide full probate administration support, estate planning, and more. We’re familiar with probate, and we’re ready to guide you through the process. If you need help with probate matters, reach out to us today to discuss your situation with a Chicago probate lawyer you can trust.
5 Steps In The Probate Process
At Kravets Law Group, we guide families through probate with clarity and practical support, helping reduce stress during a difficult time. Our Chicago, IL probate lawyer brings dependable, straightforward counsel to every case. Our mission is to transform how you experience working with lawyers by combining personalized guidance with actionable legal advice. Understanding the probate process can give families confidence and peace of mind as they settle an estate.
Filing the Petition for Probate
The first step in probate is filing a petition with the appropriate Illinois court. This formally begins the legal process and requests the court to recognize the will (if one exists) or appoint an administrator. Filing the petition correctly is essential to avoid delays or complications. We assist clients with preparing all necessary documentation, filing on time, and communicating with the court, making sure that the estate moves forward efficiently.
Validating the Will
If a will exists, the court must confirm its validity. This process includes reviewing the document, verifying signatures, and addressing any challenges or disputes. Even uncontested wills require careful attention to detail to prevent future conflicts. We guide families through validation, addressing questions, explaining requirements, and helping resolve issues that may arise, so the estate administration begins on a solid legal foundation.
Inventorying and Managing Assets
Once the probate process starts, assets must be identified, collected, and managed. This includes bank accounts, real estate, investments, personal property, and business interests. Proper management protects the estate’s value and makes sure that debts and taxes can be paid. Our Chicago probate lawyer helps clients organize records, assess assets, and communicate with financial institutions, making the process more straightforward and less overwhelming for families.
Paying Debts and Taxes
During probate, the estate must settle outstanding debts, taxes, and obligations before property can be distributed. This may include funeral expenses, creditor claims, and final income or estate taxes. Errors or delays in this step can lead to disputes or liability for heirs. We provide clear guidance on prioritizing payments, tracking deadlines, and resolving claims efficiently, protecting both the estate and the beneficiaries’ interests.
Distributing Assets to Beneficiaries
The final step in probate is transferring property and assets to heirs or beneficiaries according to the will or Illinois intestacy laws. This includes preparing proper documentation, recording transfers, and providing clarity for all parties involved. We work closely with families to confirm that the distributions align with the decedent’s estate plan, reducing the risk of disputes. Our goal is to complete probate in a way that honors your loved one’s legacy while minimizing stress for those involved.
Simplifying Probate With Trusted Guidance
Probate can feel complicated, but with the right support, it becomes a clear, manageable process. Our Chicago probate lawyer combines resilience, empathy, and actionable legal guidance to help families move through probate confidently. At Kravets Law Group, our team provides trustworthy counsel tailored to your needs. Contact us today to schedule a complimentary estate planning consultation and take the first step toward protecting your family’s future.
Chicago Probate FAQ
The probate process can feel overwhelming when you’re already dealing with the loss of a loved one. Questions about timelines, court procedures, executor duties, and asset distribution pile up quickly, leaving families uncertain about what steps to take next. Getting clear answers to your most pressing probate questions can help you move forward with confidence during this difficult time.
When Does An Estate Have To Go Through Probate?
Probate becomes necessary when someone dies owning assets solely in their name without beneficiary designations or transfer-on-death provisions. Real estate titled only in the deceased person’s name typically requires probate, as do bank accounts, investment portfolios, and personal property without co-owners or designated beneficiaries. However, assets held in joint tenancy, payable-on-death accounts, retirement accounts with named beneficiaries, and property held in trust generally avoid probate. The value and type of assets determine whether formal probate proceedings are required. Some states offer simplified procedures for smaller estates that fall below certain dollar thresholds. If you’re unsure whether probate is necessary, reviewing the deceased person’s asset ownership and beneficiary designations with legal counsel can clarify your situation.
How Long Does The Probate Process Usually Take?
Most probate cases take between nine months and two years to complete, though the timeline varies based on estate complexity, family dynamics, and court schedules. Simple estates with cooperative beneficiaries and straightforward assets may close in less than a year. Estates involving business interests, real estate sales, contested wills, tax complications, or creditor disputes typically take longer to resolve. The executor must complete numerous tasks including asset inventory, creditor notification, tax return preparation, and beneficiary distributions before closing the estate. Court requirements for waiting periods and approval processes also affect timing. Delays can occur when beneficiaries disagree about distributions, creditors file claims, or the executor struggles to locate all assets. At Kravets Law Group, we help executors complete probate efficiently while fulfilling all legal obligations properly.
What Duties Does An Executor Have During Probate?
Executors carry significant responsibilities throughout the probate process, starting with filing the will and death certificate with the court. They must identify and secure all estate assets, obtain appraisals for valuable property, and maintain accurate records of their activities. Executors notify creditors, pay valid debts, file necessary tax returns, and distribute assets according to the will’s terms. They also provide beneficiaries with an accounting showing all income, expenses, and distributions. Executors have fiduciary duties requiring them to act in the estate’s best interests, avoid conflicts of interest, and treat all beneficiaries fairly. They must communicate regularly with beneficiaries, respond to reasonable requests for information, and obtain court approval for certain actions. Executors who breach these duties can face personal liability for losses they cause. Our Chicago probate lawyer team guides executors through these responsibilities, helping them avoid costly mistakes.
Why Would Someone Contest A Will In Probate Court?
Will contests arise when interested parties believe the document doesn’t reflect the deceased person’s true wishes or wasn’t executed properly. Common grounds for challenging a will include lack of testamentary capacity, meaning the person didn’t understand what they were signing when they created the will. Undue influence claims allege that someone manipulated or coerced the deceased into making certain provisions. Fraud involves deception about the document’s contents or effects. Technical defects in how the will was signed or witnessed can also invalidate it. Family members sometimes contest wills when they’ve been disinherited unexpectedly, when provisions seem grossly unfair, or when they suspect a caregiver or new spouse influenced the deceased person. Successful will contests require substantial evidence including medical records, witness testimony, and documentation of the circumstances surrounding the will’s creation. Time limits apply to filing these challenges.
How Can Families Avoid Probate Entirely?
Several estate planning strategies allow families to transfer assets without court involvement. Revocable living trusts hold property during your lifetime and distribute it to beneficiaries after death without probate. Joint ownership with right of survivorship automatically transfers property to the surviving owner. Beneficiary designations on retirement accounts, life insurance policies, and payable-on-death bank accounts send those assets directly to named individuals. Transfer-on-death deeds for real estate and similar registrations for securities accomplish the same goal. Gifting assets during your lifetime removes them from your probate estate entirely. Small estate procedures available in many states provide simplified processes for estates below certain values. Combining these methods creates comprehensive probate avoidance. However, these strategies require proper implementation—incomplete funding of trusts or outdated beneficiary designations can undermine your planning efforts and force assets through probate anyway.
If you’re facing probate proceedings or want to plan your estate to avoid them, we’re here to help. Our team provides clear guidance tailored to your family’s situation, whether you’re serving as executor, challenging a will, or developing strategies to protect your own assets. Contact us today to discuss your probate concerns and learn how we can assist you in achieving the best possible outcome for your family.