While this is a general framework, the Illinois probate process can take six months to two years or even longer.
Conversely, under the Mattson decision, a lawyer is required for all formal probate proceedings in Illinois and any petition to appoint a representative pro se is likely to be dismissed by the probate court.
The state of Illinois does not set a specific time limit for settling an estate, but it does expect executors and probate courts to handle the process as efficiently and diligently as possible. Because of the variation in estates, the length of the process can vary from several months to several years.
As of July 1, 2018, E-Filing became mandatory in Illinois for all Civil Areas (except Quasi Criminal, Housing and Wills). The Illinois Supreme Court mandated Cook County to Utilize the Statewide Electronic Filing System (eFileIL) for Civil Case Filings in Cook County - Illinois Supreme Court Order M.R.
When a person dies in Illinois, anyone who has a claim against a decedent's estate —whether it is a contract, tort, or statutory custodial claim—may file that claim with the estate representative or with the court.
Summary: How Long Do You Have to Transfer Property After Death? The short answer to this question is – it depends. As discussed earlier, if the property needs to go through the probate process, it can take 9 months to a year before the executor can sell or transfer it.
By waiting ten months, the executor has the chance to see whether anyone is going to raise an objection. There are six months from the date of the Grant of Probate in which to commence a claim under the Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975. Then a further four months in which to serve the claim.