Not every estate needs one. Simple estates, small estates under the affidavit threshold, and states with informal probate can often be handled without counsel. Contested wills, out-of-state property, and business interests usually need an attorney. The Illinois self-filing assessment scores whether this estate can be handled without one.

Illinois uses reasonable fees for probate. Typical DuPage County rates run $200–$500/hour, with simple estates taking 20–40 hours. Flat-fee arrangements are available from some firms.

Files the petition, publishes required notices, helps with the inventory and accounting, handles creditor claims and tax filings, and guides the final distribution. The attorney represents the personal representative, not the beneficiaries — a distinction that matters if disputes arise.

Referrals from an estate planning attorney you already work with are the best source. Bar association directories are second. Avoid attorneys who won't quote a fee structure up front or who won't explain whether your estate qualifies for simplified procedures.

Yes — by avoiding probate altogether. A revocable living trust removes the estate from court jurisdiction, which removes the need for a probate attorney at settlement time. Create a revocable trust online for about what one hour of probate-attorney time costs.

Firm listings are for informational purposes only. SimplyTrust does not endorse or recommend any specific firm or attorney. Contact firms directly to discuss your situation and verify their current practice areas and availability. Information last verified: May 2026.

Circuit Court

DuPage County

505 N. County Farm Road

Wheaton, IL 60187

Phone:

630-407-8700

Fax:

630-407-8575

Hours:

Monday - Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

Visit Court Website →

Paper Filing Available

E-Filing Optional

Notify Banks & Financial Institutions

Each institution has a separate death claim process. Find yours below.

Associated Bank

Bank serving the Midwest

Associated Bank

Auto-Owners Life

Insurance Company serving the Midwest, Southeast, and more

Auto-Owners Life

Bank of Hope

Bank serving the West, Southeast, and more

Bank of Hope

BCU

Credit Union serving Illinois and Wisconsin

BCU

Busey

Bank serving the Southwest, Midwest, and more

Busey

Cathay Bank

Bank serving the Northeast, West, and more

Cathay Bank

CEFCU

Credit Union serving Illinois and California

CEFCU

Commerce Bank

Bank serving the Midwest, Southwest, and more

Commerce Bank

Consumers CU

Credit Union serving Illinois

Consumers CU

COUNTRY Financial

Insurance Company serving the Midwest, West, and more

COUNTRY Financial

Customers Bank

Bank serving the Northeast, West, and more

Customers Bank

D.A. Davidson

Brokerage serving the West, Midwest, and more

D.A. Davidson

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.

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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.

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How Do I Find a Probate Attorney in DuPage County, Illinois?

When to consider hiring help, what to look for in a probate attorney, and firms serving DuPage County.

Overview Getting Started Costs & Fees How to FileFind Attorneys

We found 9 estate law firms serving DuPage County. DuPage County is part of the Collar Counties (Suburban Chicago) region.

These firms handle estate administration, will contests, trust litigation, and other probate matters in DuPage County Circuit Court.

Collar Counties (Suburban Chicago) Firms

Ariano, Hardy, Ritt, Richmond, Lytle & Goettel, P.C.

FirmEst. 1986

2000 McDonald Road, Suite 200

South Elgin, IL 60177

Phone:

(847) 695-2400

attorneys-illinois.com →

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