Why You Need a Probate Attorney in East Peoria IL
The law firm of Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates, P.C. wants you to understand the importance of the right probate attorney in East Peoria IL. First, you are not required by law to hire a lawyer for probate proceedings. Unfortunately, many people choose not to hire a lawyer because they misunderstand the roles that the different parties play.
For instance, many people assume that an estate executor or the probate court will protect their interests. While the executor has a fiduciary duty to act in the beneficiaries’ best interests, they cannot put one beneficiary’s interests ahead of another. When disputes arise, it can be challenging for the executor to decide what to do. Meanwhile, it is also important to understand that the court cannot provide legal advice. The court functions only to see estate administration handled in accordance with a will and probate laws. Thus, a court can preside over disputes but will remain neutral.
Therefore, the best way to get the legal assistance you need is by calling our firm at 309-637-LAWS for a consultation. Click here to contact us online.
A Brief Overview of Probate
Probate functions as the judicial process for distributing a deceased person’s estate based on the terms of their will. If the deceased died without a will, their estate would still go through probate. However, their assets will get distributed according to the laws of intestate succession. Those are the rules that dictate which heirs will inherit the estate’s assets. The entire process gets oversight from the court. That way, it can ensure that the estate is administered according to the terms of the decedent’s will or according to Illinois intestacy laws. For more information on the process, contact our probate attorney in East Peoria IL.
The Probate Process
The probate process starts when the will gets filed with the probate court. Once the will has been filed, the court responds by naming an executor. Then, the beneficiaries and creditors will receive notifications. If there are any disputes involving the will or administration of the estate, those matters will require resolution with probate court litigation.
Eventually, the executor will pay any taxes and other valid claims, distribute the estate assets, and then make a final accounting to the court. While this sounds simple, it involves a very complicated process that can linger on for several months. However, our probate attorney in East Peoria IL can help. We will ensure that the estate is administered as quickly and fairly as possible.
Contact Our Probate Attorney in East Peoria IL
Simplify the probate process and protect your rights with a Stephens Fiddes McGill and Associates probate attorney in East Peoria IL. Discuss your case with us by calling 309-637-LAWS now. If you prefer, you can also contact us online to request a consultation. Our firm has been recognized as one of the top three law firms in Central Illinois on five different occasions. In addition to probate law, we can also assist you with bankruptcy law, criminal law, real estate law, family law, personal injury law, traffic law, workers compensation law, and social security disability law.