Probate Law | Rochford and Associates

Probate

Find Help Managing the Most Challenging Aspects of Probate Law

Ideally, upon the passing of a loved one, you’ll have a will and trusts in place that dictate the management of an estate. However, if there is no estate plan in place or if other issues arise, you may have to navigate the intricacies of local probate law. If such a scenario occurs, don’t hesitate to call the probate attorneys at Rochford and Associates. We’ve helped countless clients contend with the most challenging aspects of probate law in Peoria IL and settle litigation associated with your loved one’s estate.

What is Probate Law?

Probate law and the probate process is a court-supervised legal procedure that establishes the handling of an individual’s estate upon their death. The probate process determines who the estate’s beneficiaries are, how an estate’s debts and assets will be managed, and other legal factors not already explained in a will. While it is recommended to have a will or trust before proceeding to probate court, a probate attorney can provide guidance in instances without a will or previous estate planning.

What Can a Probate Attorney Do?

Probate law is complicated and must be dealt with against the backdrop of a family in mourning. Understandably, this can make completing the probate process challenging. Thus, having an attorney in Peoria IL provide guidance and support can make all the difference. While you manage the emotional side of your recent loss, allow Rochford and Associates to handle the legal side. Our team can assist with:

Executor/Administrator Duties – While most probate duties are left up to an executor, Rochford and Associates can also take on some of these duties. Tasks such as filing final income tasks, gathering assets, making final distributions to inheritors, etc., are all areas an attorney can assist with.
Probate Litigation – Unfortunately, not everyone always sees eye to eye on how an estate should be administered or divided. If family members wish to contest a will or dispute a trust, a probate attorney can help protect against such actions or help a family protest the distribution.
Court Representation – A licensed attorney is the only person able to assist an estate executor directly in court. Your probate attorney will file an initial probate petition, completing and filing all necessary paperwork with the court. If court appearances are necessary, your attorney can accompany you as your legal representative.

Documents for probate court sitting under a gavel, part of probate law in Peoria IL

Call Rochford and Associates

You’ll only ever deal with probate court at a few points in your life. Conversely, Rochford and Associates continually contends with the intricacies of probate law, staying up-to-date with Illinois’s latest rules and requirements. Ensure you have the backing of experienced probate attorneys when you trust the professionals at Rochford and Associates. Contact us today at 309-637-5322 to request a consultation. Also, we are located at 101 SW Adams St, No 700, Peoria, IL 61602.

Trusted in Illinois for Over 35 Years

“The Jim Rochford & Associates law firm was extremely helpful in resolving a very difficult and sensitive situation in a federal lawsuit against a school. Tim Cushing served as the lead attorney, and worked closely with Jim Rochford. Attorney Nick Rochford also provided very valuable counsel. On a personal level, they were responsive and easy to communicate with throughout the entire process. They were also patient, always available to answer questions, and provided objective legal advice that I knew I could trust. Their attention to detail and knowledge of laws are unsurpassed. In addition, the firm has highly professional and helpful support staff, including Deb Rochford and Mary Thomas, and a network of specialized experts that they collaborate with to provide comprehensive legal solutions. After working with this law firm, I strongly recommend them to anyone needing an extremely responsive law firm that will work tirelessly to protect their clients’ interests. They are highly respected in the legal community, and I would trust them with any legal situation – personal or business.”

Appreciative Client

“Could not have asked for a better experience! Both the attorneys and staff were extremely professional in the handling of my case. They represented me on my worker’s compensation case that was from a summer job in another state. They helped me get a great settlement and it did not take very long either. I would highly recommend Jim Rochford as an attorney for anyone. One thing that stood out about him was I truly believe he always had my best interest at heart.”

Allie Caruso

“I am somewhat late in writing this but team Rochford went above and beyond my expectations while assisting me with my fathers estate after his passing. We unfortunately had a squatter in his home during covid which we were able to successfully remove with the assistance of Tim Cushing’s letters and the PCPD. They really made us feel like family and at no point did I ever feel they were seeking to take advantage of the situation for profit. I would gladly give 6 stars!”

Kyle

“I have dealt with this attorney for years and they always take care of me and my family. I highly recommend this company for all injury cases. They go above and beyond. 5 stars.”

Skytece Armstrong

“Jim, Time and Nick are great at what they do. They work well as a team, using each persons strengths to solve your problems. They represent us in all types of business law matters. Highly recommended!!!”

Joseph Walters

“Tim Cushing is an incredible family law attorney. He has worked effortlessly for my children. Jim Rochford and his lovely wife, Deb, have been supportive and are as invested in my children as I am. Even the paralegal, Mary, puts her heart and soul into everything. I cannot stress to you how amazing this Law Firm has been to my little family. If you are in need of an attorney, don’t hesitate to give them a call. They specialize in many different aspects of the law and will put you with an attorney who is a great fit!”

Kate Elliott

“I highly recommend! Nick and Jim were amazing attorney to work with. They kept an open line of communication and I was involved with the case the whole time. They were always available to answer any questions or when I needed an update on where we were at in the process.”