Tinley Park Estate Administration Attorneys

Law Firm Helping Executors Administer Estates in Orland Park, Oak Forest and Homer Glen

After someone dies, their assets are distributed to their heirs. A person's last will and testament typically names an executor to administer their estate, and this person is responsible for carrying out the deceased person's last wishes and resolving any legal issues that may arise. If a person does not have a will, or if an executor has not been named, a person will be appointed by the court to administer the estate.

At Anderson and Associates, P.C. our attorneys help people create estate plans that meet a family's needs while ensuring that all legal requirements are met throughout the estate administration process. We can help executors and estate administrators understand their duties, address legal issues, and ensure that their loved one's wishes are followed correctly.

Duties of an Executor

The executor of an estate will file the deceased person's will in the county court where they resided at the time of their death. They must then file a petition to have the will admitted to probate court within 30 days. After the probate process begins, the executor will create an inventory of the deceased person's assets and debts. They will also notify the deceased person's heirs and creditors, ensure that assets are distributed to heirs, arrange for the payment of debts to creditors, file tax returns for the estate, and pay any applicable income taxes or estate taxes.

Independent Administration vs. Supervised Administration

In Illinois, administration of estates can be either independent or supervised. An independent executor is freely allowed to make decisions as they carry out the deceased person's wishes, but a supervised executor must receive court approval for most actions, including filing an inventory of the estate's assets, selling or transferring property, distributing property to heirs, or paying debts.

While independent administration is typically presumed, supervised administration may be required if it is directed by the will, if an interested person objects to the terms of a will, or if the court decides it is necessary to protect the interests of a minor or disabled heir.

Contact an Orland Park Estate Administration Lawyer

The legal procedures that must be followed during the probate process are complex, and people who have been named the executor of a loved one's estate are often overwhelmed as they determine how to carry out their responsibilities. At Anderson and Associates, P.C., our skilled attorneys can provide you with the guidance you need as an executor, ensuring that all legal requirements are met and the distribution of assets is handled correctly. Contact our Will County estate planning attorneys at 708-226-9904 to schedule a consultation. We assist clients in Oak Forest, Palos Heights, Homer Glen, Mokena, and Cook County.