Providing Illinois With Multi-Faceted Contested Estate and Probate Experience

When facing contested will, trust or probate proceedings, people often want to know how they can get their share, and what steps they need to take. At the Law Offices of David H. Locks, we explain the process and how the system works.

Though we are located in Chicago, we represent out-of-state clients who have questions regarding the estate of a person who resided and died in Illinois. Usually, it is not necessary for out-of-state clients to travel to Illinois. Let us help you resolve your contested estate, will or trust matter.

For information about the services our firm offers, contact us online or call 773-663-4399 (toll free 866-528-8087) for a free initial consultation; we will be upfront with you.

Our Approach to Contested Estate and Probate Matters

When a client contacts our office, they will work through their legal issues with attorney David H. Locks. When representing clients involved in contested estate matters, our approach involves:

• Determining if the estate is subject to probate proceedings.
• Reviewing all documents associated with the estate or trust and learning the circumstances to be taken into consideration.
• Identifying issues such as duress, undue influence or errors of administration.
• Examining the situation to determine if the claims are worth pursuing. We are always willing to talk with you to make this determination. We will be honest and straight-forward with you.
• Collecting and converting estate assets into cash and distributing them according to the instructions of the will or trust.
• Helping you determine whether or not you need a lawyer to guide you through these types of proceedings.

Essentially, we can help you in contested matters, or assist you in winding up the affairs of the decedent's estate.

Legal Experience Complementary to Contested Estates and Probate

Administering or contesting an estate is difficult for people who are not familiar with the process. Let us guide you through contested estate, trust or probate proceedings, ensuring that all matters are handled correctly from the very beginning.

Probate and contested estate matters touch on just about every area of the law. Over the years, we have helped numerous clients with an array of legal issues covering a wide range of legal disciplines. We use our experience in the following practice areas to benefit clients with contested estate or probate needs:

• Real estate — The largest asset of an estate or trust is often real property. We know how to address the purchase and sale of residential, commercial or industrial property included in the estate.
• Commercial law — A party to a contract with the decedent may sue the estate for breach of contract or attempt to collect on a debt. We can address these claims during probate proceedings.
• Foreclosures — We can help family members who want to keep the home of their deceased parent or other relative. We have experience handling foreclosure proceedings, and can help you save the home of the decedent.
• Chancery actions — Foreclosures, contested trusts or disputes surrounding a non-profit organization may proceed through Chancery Court, where different legal standards and rules apply. Our firm has represented many clients in Chancery Court.
• Family law — After handling divorce, child support, child custody and visitation, grandparent rights, property division, alimony and guardianship issues, we understand how these issues interact with the distribution of estate property.
• Complex trust matters — Complex trust matters can involve numerous trusts, with a wide range of legal implications. We help the trust administrator properly manage and distribute trust assets.

To retain a law firm with broad legal knowledge that complements the resolution of contested estate and probate matters, contact us online or call 773-663-4399 (toll free 866-528-8087) for a free initial consultation.

Law Offices of David H. Locks
3526 N. Hamilton Ave.
Chicago, Il 60618
Phone: 773-663-4399
Toll Free: 866-528-8087
Fax: 773-736-5444
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