Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois

Generally, the estate first covers the decedent's debts and then whatever is left is distributed per will. It sounds like you would be a creditor of the estate entitled to be paid. Also, as executor, you are entitled to hire an attorney to represent and advise you. This is the type of specific question to ask your counsel.

I believe that handling your father's estate is one of those "don't do these at home" situations, meaning that hiring a professional to help you will be well worth the investment of time and money. Furthermore, attorneys fees are an expense of administering the estate, to be paid off the top before distributions are made to heirs, beneficiaries and creditors. The legal fees should not come out of your pocket. Hiring an attorney will make your job easier and protect you from personal liability resulting from paying the wrong amounts to the wrong parties.

Great answers already posted. I agree you should be paid, but you may face issues documenting that you are entitled to be paid. As the representative of the estate, as already mentioned, you should have an attorney providing counsel.