In all proceedings for the partition of heirs property, the court shall apportion the costs of the proceedings, including a reasonable fee for the plaintiff's attorney, among the parties in interest in the action, as the court deems just and equitable. In determining the just and equitable apportionment of the costs and attorney's fees, the court may consider, among other things, the good faith attempt of the parties to agree prior to the initiation of the complaint. If any defendant interposes a good and substantial defense to the complaint, the party or parties making such substantial defense shall recover their costs against the plaintiff according to justice and equity.
755 ILCS 75/12