Illinois law requires anyone in possession of an original Will of a deceased person to file it with the clerk of the appropriate court. What's the procedure for doing that? This how-to guide covers Cook County, but many of its points are applicable to other Illinois counties as well.
1
Make Copies
If a probate will be necessary (and even if it won't), it's a good idea to make copies of the Will for future reference before filing. You should do this WITHOUT unstapling the Will.
2
Bring Wills and a Death Certificate for the Decedent to the Daley Center
The Daley Center is located at 50 West Washington Street in Chicago. You will be going to the 12th Floor, Room 1202.
3
Submit the Will
There are a number of different lines in Room 1202 -- one of them (line 3a) is labeled "Wills." Go to this line, and present the original Will. The clerk will ask you the decedent's date of death (which is why I suggested bringing a death certificate), and will fill out a receipt card showing that the Will was filed. You should save this card with other important legal papers.
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