How Do I File Probate in DuPage County, Illinois?
A step-by-step guide to filing at the Circuit Court—what documents you'll need, where to go, and what happens after you file.
If you're handling probate yourself in DuPage County, you can file your documents in person at the Circuit Court or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file, families filing without an attorney are exempt and can use paper forms.
Your Filing Options
How to File Your Documents
Paper Filing Available
You can file your probate documents in person or by mail. While attorneys are required to e-file in DuPage County, families handling probate themselves are exempt and can file on paper.
E-Filing Also Available
If you prefer, you can file electronically through the state's online system. This is optional for families filing without an attorney.
View E-Filing InformationCan You File Without an Attorney?
Not every estate requires an attorney. Factors like estate size, asset types, and whether beneficiaries agree can determine if self-filing at the Circuit Court is realistic for your situation.
For a detailed cost comparison and filing checklist, see the full DuPage County Self-Filing Assessment.
DuPage County Filing Requirements
These are specific requirements for filing probate in this county. Following these guidelines will help avoid delays or rejected filings.
Before You File
Reports must be filed at least 30 days prior to the scheduled court date.
Local Rule 5.12 requires mailing or hand-delivering a courtesy copy of filed documents to the assigned judge well in advance of the court date.
Other Requirements
Guardians must notify the court in writing within 14 days of any address change for minor-ward or guardian. Changes submitted via Change of Address Form to Olga.Castillo@dupagecourts.gov.
In-Person Filing
The Circuit Court is located at 505 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL 60187. Phone: 630-407-8700. Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM.
Probate matters are overseen by Probate & Guardianship Judge Hon. Terra Costa Howard, with hearings typically scheduled Monday - Friday at 9:00 AM, Courtroom 2011.
What to Bring
To file at the Circuit Court, you need: the original will (or proof there isn't one), a certified death certificate, contact information for all heirs and beneficiaries, and a summary of what the estate owns and owes.
Court Resources
Additional resources, forms, and fee schedules are available on the Circuit Court website.
Frequently Asked Questions
You open probate by filing a petition with the Circuit Court in DuPage County, attaching the original will (if any), the death certificate, and the filing fee ($398). Once the court issues letters, the personal representative can act.
At minimum: petition for probate, application for letters testamentary or of administration, notice to heirs, and an oath for the personal representative. DuPage County uses the standard Illinois probate forms — the court's website lists the current versions.
Illinois permits self-representation, but formal probate procedures make it impractical for most families. The Circuit Court staff can accept filings but cannot give legal advice. Check the Illinois self-filing assessment before deciding.
Yes. The Circuit Court in DuPage County accepts e-filing through the state portal. In-person filing at the courthouse is still available for those without digital access.
Assets stay locked, creditors can still pursue them, and beneficiaries cannot sell real property or close accounts. After a few years, interested parties can petition to open probate themselves. Waiting rarely helps. Families who set up a revocable living trust ahead of time bypass this problem entirely.
Circuit Court
DuPage County
505 N. County Farm Road
Wheaton, IL 60187
Phone:
630-407-8700Fax:
630-407-8575
Hours:
Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Paper Filing Available
E-Filing Optional
Notify Banks & Financial Institutions
Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.
Is this your situation?
Get a complete guide for your specific circumstances.
Named as Executor
Being named executor means navigating probate, managing assets, and distributing the estate. What's expected, what you can charge, and how to start.
Learn more
Death of a Parent
Losing a parent is overwhelming. What needs to happen next — settling the estate, navigating probate, and the steps to move forward.
Learn more