Niles, IL estates & probate attorney Dana Zivkovich shares how estate planning can minimize probate expenses. She points out that probate refers to the division of the court where a judge oversees the administration of a deceased individual’s estate. When a person passes away, it may be necessary to involve the court to manage the distribution of assets. Probate costs typically include filing fees, time spent before the judge, and the preparation of required petitions.

She notes that estates can sometimes be administered outside of court, but this requires careful planning in advance. Without such a plan, the estate must proceed through probate, resulting in additional expenses tied to the court process.