Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Illinois

That depends primarily on her assets. If your mother owned real estate or had more than $100,000 of assets in her name, then someone will need to open a probate estate to collect the assets. If there is a Will, then that will control administration. If not, then the estate will pass to her heirs under Illinois law.

You can find more information on my website at www.illinoisestateplan.com. Feel free to give me a call to discuss.

There are basically three steps to estate administration: gathering the assets, paying the expenses, and distributing to the beneficiareis.

Also, it is important to know what NOT to do. Don't start moving assets, paying bills, or submittting claims forms until you sit down with a lawyer who specializes in estate administration. The reason is that opportunities to save money for the heirs and beneficiaries may be lost.

Also protect estate property. This means locking up personal property and maintaining insurance on home and cars.

Please visit www.legacylaws.com and click on Practice Areas/Estate Administration for more information.