Probate Attorney Paris IL – Bates Law Office – 501 Jackson Avenue – Suite 2031 – Charleston, IL – Call 217-512-1847
After someone passes away, they typically leave behind an estate that needs to be settled. This means collecting their properties, paying remaining debts and then distributing what is left over. Distribution of the estate’s property is often directed by a will. Or, in the event the person dies without a will, according to the state’s inheritance rules. While a valid will has to be filed, it does not require probate. It may be filed at the courthouse simply as a public record.
Some property passes automatically to inheritors according to state law and don’t go to the estate. For instance, bank accounts or real estate held jointly may pass straight to the surviving parties, while proceeds from life insurance also pas directly to beneficiaries. Things that are not a part of the deceased’s estate don’t need to be handled in settlement of their estate.
Talk to a Probate Attorney Paris IL – Call Bates Law Office at 217-512-1847.
The probate process is a way of settling an estate after someone dies. However, it is not the only way of doing so and not always a requirement. State law permits a streamlined procedure for the handling of smaller estates that does not pass through standard probate procedures. An estate is considered “small” and may be settled utilizing small estate processes when it does not contain any land and has under $100,000. – Probate Attorney Paris IL
With small estates, an affidavit that summarizes the estate and the manner in which it will be distributed must be completed and notarized. The affidavit is frequently filed along with a copy of the person’s death certificate. Then, affidavit may be used to carry out distribution of the estate’s property without the need to file a probate case.
Get answers to your questions about probate in Illinois by consulting with a Probate Attorney Paris IL at 217-512-1847.