The Probate Division hears actions concerning the probate and contest of wills and testamentary instruments; claims against an estate arising in contract, tort or otherwise; actions and proceedings arising under the Illinois Probate Act of 1975, 755 ILCS chapter 5 et. seq.; the administration of estates of decedents, disabled persons, minors and wards; and petitions pursuant to the Illinois Insurance Code. The Probate Division also hears actions and proceedings concerning contracts to make a will, construction of wills, the appointment of testamentary trustees during the period of administration and the appointment of receivers pursuant to Supreme Court Rule 776.
Probate Division Case Files
Case files may contain the appearances, court orders, affidavits, certificates, motions, orders, transcripts, petitions, applications and notices.
Related Resources
Birth Certificates/Death Certificates
County Clerk's Office https://www.cookcountyclerkil.gov/vital-records
City of Chicago - Department of Aging
City of Chicago Services for the Elderly and/or Disabled https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/fss/provdrs/senior.html
Cook County Treasurer
For Funds Deposited per Court Order in Probate Case, Inheritance Tax, Refunds - Contact Maria Pappas 312-443-5100
Guardianship and Advocacy Commission
For cases where no one is available to be guardian of the disabled person; an agency is required to be guardian of the person and/or estate; and there are assets of LESS THAN $25,000. Location: 160 N. LaSalle St., Suite S-500, Chicago, IL 60601. Phone: 312-793-5900.
Illinois Department of Financial & Professional Regulation
For inquiries about banks and financial institutions - General Information: 312-814-2000.
Offices of Public Guardian of Cook County
For cases where no one is available to be guardian of the disabled person; an agency is required to be guardian of the person and/or estate; and there are assets GREATER THAN $25,000. Location: 69 West Washington St., Room 1800, Chicago, IL 60602. Phone: 312-603-0800
Passport Services
You may apply for your passport at the Office of the Clerk of the Circuit Court, Probate Division, on the 12th floor of the Daley Center, 50 West Washington St., Chicago IL.
State of Illinois Department on Aging
State of Illinois for the Elderly and/or Disabled. Contact: 1-800-252-8966 (inside Illinois). Illinois Elder Abuse 24 Hour Protective Services Hotline: 1-866-800-1409 or 1-888-206-1327 (TTY).
State of Illinois Treasurer’s Office - Unclaimed Property Page
For inquiries regarding unclaimed property.