Probate

Chicago, Illinois Probate Attorneys

In order to settle a deceased person's affairs, probate is necessary to determine the amount of debt the decedent owes and the assets available from their estate. Additionally, if a will or trust was left behind as part of an estate plan, the executor of the estate will need to follow proper procedures in order to execute a will or initiate disbursal of trust funds. At the law office of Pugh and Payne, our attorneys represent clients in probate proceedings in order to facilitate the process and ensure the financial affairs and estate plan of the decedent are in order. Working with forensic accountants, tax experts, and other financial professionals, our lawyers determine the debt against an estate and the assets available from it. If questions regarding taxes arise, we determine what needs to be done in order to avoid government action.

Avoid headaches and confusion - contact probate attorneys at the law office of Pugh and Payne today. We provide free consultations and can explain how we can help you avoid further legal complications.

Probate Issues Associated with a Will

Under Illinois state law, if you are in possession of a person's will and have been named as the executor, you must file it with the Circuit Court where the decedent lived within 30 days of his or her death. If you are named as the executor in a will, you have a legal duty to "probate the will," if the estate is valued in excess of $100,000. If you are in possession of a will or have been named an estate's executor in a will, supplying the following documents to your attorney is important:

• A copy of the decedent's death certificate
• The address of any homes, apartments, or properties owned by the decedent
• An inventory of the amount owed on each property and the name and address of each creditor, bank, or mortgage company
• A listing of the fair market value of each property
• A listing of credit cards and loans under the decedent's name and the amount owed on them
• A copy of the decedent's Will and any amended changes to it.

Undue Influence and Contested Wills

If the decedent signed an amendment to his or her will under duress or in a condition where he or she did not have full mental capacity, a will can be contested. Working with psychologists, private investigators, handwriting experts, and eyewitnesses, we have the resources needed to contest a will or fight charges of undue influence. In cases where an unscrupulous relative or healthcare provider has convinced an ailing elderly person to sign over their home, we research the history of the title, look at when a will was changed, and seek damages against the parties involved.

Contact Probate Attorneys at Pugh and Payne

Don't wait until settling an estate creates additional legal problems and financial worries - contact probate attorneys at Pugh and Payne today.