An Illinois Affidavit of Warship is a legal document used to establish the rightful heirs and their percentage of ownership in a property when the owner of the property has passed away without a will or trust in place. This affidavit is particularly important in cases where probate is not necessary, but there is a need to transfer ownership of the property to the rightful heirs. The Illinois Affidavit of Warship for the Owner of the Property serves as evidence of the deceased owner's heirs and their respective claims to the property. It is typically completed by a disinterested party who has personal knowledge of the family history and the deceased owner's lineage, such as a close family friend, neighbor, or attorney. The affidavit contains crucial information, including the deceased owner's name, date of death, and a detailed description of the property. It also provides a comprehensive list of the deceased owner's heirs, including their names, addresses, relationships to the deceased, and their percentage of ownership. Different types of Illinois Affidavit of Warship for the Owner of the Property may exist based on the specific circumstances of the deceased owner's estate. For example: 1. Self-Proving Affidavit of Warship: This type of affidavit, when notarized, is accompanied by signed statements from witnesses who confirm the accuracy of the information provided. A self-proving affidavit can help expedite the property transfer process as it provides additional credibility. 2. Non-Self-Proving Affidavit of Warship: In some cases, a non-self-proving affidavit may be used, where witnesses are not available to attest to the information provided. It is still legally valid, but additional steps may be required to establish its authenticity. 3. Jointly Owned Property Affidavit: When the deceased owner owned the property jointly with someone else, such as a spouse, a Jointly Owned Property Affidavit may be required. This affidavit acknowledges the joint ownership and outlines the percentage of ownership held by each co-owner. 4. Small Estate Affidavit of Warship: In estates that meet certain criteria regarding the value of the property, a Small Estate Affidavit of Warship can be used to facilitate the transfer of ownership. This document allows for a simplified probate process, avoiding the need for full probate proceedings. Throughout the process of completing an Illinois Affidavit of Warship, it is essential to ensure accuracy and thoroughness, as any mistakes may result in delays or challenges during the property transfer process. Consulting with an estate planning attorney or a knowledgeable professional is advised to ensure all legal requirements are met and to avoid potential complications.