Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois
how to find out if i am named in a will
My great aunt died about 6 months ago (I just recently found out) and my father who I have had no contact with for about 10 years called a family member to tell us and mentioned that my sister and I were left something in her will. He would not give any more information. I am lead to believe he is the executor. How can I find out if she did truly leave us something. I would prefer to deal with my father as little as possible.
1 Answer from Attorneys
Re: how to find out if i am named in a will
In Illinois, by law, all wills must be filed with the clerk of the court in the county in which the person died. Check with the court clerk (probate) to see if the will was filed. If so, you can order a copy, or go to the courthouse to see the file yourself.
If the will was not filed, as a beneficiary you have a right to obtain a copy of the will, or to compel the filing of the will, or to exercise your rights by opening a probate estate.
If the will has not been filed, you may want to speak to an attorney to advise you of your options.
Good luck to you.