Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois

Re: Daughter of homeless father needs help!

You don't "owe" anything on debts of another, absent special circumstances. I am assuming that no formal probate proceeding was opened, which would require payment of your father's debts prior to any distribution to heirs. You may have a remedy under the "Fair Debt and Collection Act" which is a federal law regarding impermissable conduct regarding collections. I would also contact the Better Business Bureau, the Illinois Attorney General and any agency regulating nursing homes to complain of their illegal conduct. Our comments are based on the question you asked, and your question is being treated by us as a hypothetical. Accordingly, our comments could be substantially and materially different were we advised of all of the relevant facts and circumstances. Our comments are by necessity general in nature, and should not be relied upon in taking or forgoing action in your circumstances without retaining an attorney. In order to fully explore your legal matter, you should meet with us or another attorney and bring to any such meeting all relevant documents and correspondence, and any other relevant facts.

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