My 97-year-old mother-in-law has sworn for years she does not have a Will and won't make one. She owns her home outright and her children just figured it would go to probate when she passes away. However we learned recently that she did make out a Will back in the 1950's after she was widowed, but she doesn't have a copy. We live in Cook County, Illinois.
Is there anyway of tracking this Will down or should we just wait til "the day" to see what happens? She is quite healthy for her age but having received this news we just want to be informed if possible, since her youngest son and I are her 'caretakers.' We know basically what the will states, so there are no surprises nor infighting. Just some guidance on next steps.
Then, think outside the "box".
Other places to look for a will are where someone might stash important papers, like inside a bible or other book, a special box of memorabilia or letters, or given to the executor named in the will. Good Luck.