Now, let’s get into the basics of that scary word – Probate.
The word Probate comes from the Latin word probare which means “to prove.” Probate is the process of officially proving someone’s Will in court and settling their estate. This process is accomplished in the Circuit Court of the county where the decedent (person who died) was residing when they passed away. Because it is done through the court system, a judge has oversight over the case to make sure that all heirs are notified, your debts and taxes are paid, and your estate is distributed according to your Will (if you made one) or according to the Illinois Probate Act (if you didn’t make one).
Allow me to be your guide on the complex and oftentimes intimidating process known as Probate.