Lake County, Illinois

Probate in Lake County, Illinois

Lake County probate filings are heard at the Waukegan courthouse under Illinois law (755 ILCS 5/1-1 et seq. (Illinois Probate Act of 1975)). The process below applies statewide; specific court fees and forms are available from the Lake County Clerk.

Lake County probate at a glance

County seat
Waukegan
Court
Circuit Court (Probate Division)
Population (est.)
711,880
Typical timeline
26–52 weeks
Filing fee
$200–$500
Small-estate threshold
$150,000
Statute
755 ILCS 5/1-1 et seq. (Illinois Probate Act of 1975)

For exact fees + forms, check the Lake County Clerk’s office or the state source: ilga.gov.

Illinois probate, step by step

  1. 1File petition for probate of will or letters of administration
  2. 2Court appoints representative and issues letters of office
  3. 3Publish notice to creditors; six-month claim period runs
  4. 4File inventory and pay debts, taxes, and spousal/child awards
  5. 5File final report and order of distribution

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Other Illinois counties

This page is informational and is not legal advice. Probate procedure varies by county. Consult a licensed Illinois probate attorney for advice specific to your situation.