When a loved one passes away, their assets, debts, and property must be gathered, managed, and distributed according to their wishes or state law. This process is called estate administration (or probate, when you need a court’s authority to proceed).
At Stock Legal, we often receive questions from clients who want to understand what this process looks like and what steps are involved. While every estate is different, the general process is similar across both Missouri and Illinois.
Estate administration is the legal process of settling someone’s affairs after they pass away. It typically involves:
If the person left a will, the named executor (also called a personal representative) is responsible for handling these steps. If there is no will, the court will appoint an administrator, and state law will determine who inherits the estate.
Not all estates require full probate.
Your attorney can help determine which process applies based on the type and value of the assets.
While every situation is unique, estate administration generally follows these steps:
The timeline varies depending on the size and complexity of the estate.
Estate administration follows specific timelines, and missing a deadline can delay the process or create legal complications. While every situation is unique, here are some of the most common deadlines in Missouri and Illinois:
Missouri Deadlines
Illinois Deadlines
Even straightforward estates can involve legal details that are easy to overlook. Working with an experienced estate administration attorney can help ensure all filings, deadlines, and distributions are handled properly — and that you, as executor or family member, are protected throughout the process.
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of navigating the legal process. At Stock Legal, our estate administration team helps clients in both Missouri and Illinois understand their responsibilities and move through each step with clarity and confidence.
If you have questions about settling an estate, our team is here to guide you.
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