Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois

First you need to ascertain what type of ownership he had in the business. Was this a sole proprietorship or a partnership or LLC? If he was entitled to payments, then most likely his estate would be entitled to those payments instead. His estate will pass as provided on his Will, if he had one, or if not, then to his legal heirs. You would be his heir, along with his descendants, if any.

There are other considerations as well. If you don't have your own legal representation with respect to your husband's estate, you should consider retaining representation to protect your interests.

Only an attorney can manage your late husband's law practice. If your husband had partners, they will probably be able to pitch in. However, your husband's Estate is very likely entitled to anything that your husband would have received if he hadn't passed away, and may also receive cash in substitution for his share of the business. As his wife, you are probably the primary beneficiary of his Estate. Feel free to contact me if you'd like to explore this further. I always provide free consultations.

Running tandem with the important question of whether you are entitled to some or all of the fee income is the question of what you need to do in order to get it. I would hope you are working with an attorney in the administration of your late husband's estate to explore the issues of entitlement and obligations of the estate.