Illinois estate tax applies above $4M at rates 0.8%–16%. Cook County's probate division handles one of the largest urban dockets in the Midwest.
| Case Type | Duration | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Small estate affidavit (under $100K) | 30–90 days | No court filing required |
| Formal testate administration | 6–12 months | Letters testamentary; creditor notice; inventory |
| Complex administration | 12–24 months | Business interests; real estate; estate tax |
| Contested estate | 24–60+ months | Full civil discovery; possible jury |
| Guardianship (establishment) | 2–4 months | Guardian ad litem; hearing; annual reports |
| Estate Value | Attorney Fees | Executor Fees | Total Est. Cost | % of Estate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $500,000 | $12,000–$22,000 (est. reasonable) | $10,000–$20,000 (est.) | $25,000–$50,000+ | 5.0%–10.0% |
| $2,000,000 | $30,000–$70,000 (est.) | $30,000–$70,000 (est.) | $65,000–$145,000+ | 3.25%–7.25% |
| $10,000,000 | $80,000–$250,000+ | $100,000–$300,000+ | $185,000–$600,000+ | 1.85%–6.0% |
* Estimates based on Probate Insider Reference Series 2026. Actual costs vary. Not legal advice.