A healthcare power of attorney is a legal document that names an agent that has the authority to make medical decisions for you in the event you experience physical or mental incapacitation. Without a POA, you put the decision-making in the hands of others, and they...
Estate Planning
Can a trust add value to your estate plan?
Hashing out a comprehensive and effective estate plan is achievable if you consider the totality of the situation. Asking yourself some simple questions can help you determine what tools will prove more effective, including trust accounts. Consider these questions and...
Why you should have a will regardless of your life stage
Most adults are familiar with the purpose of a will and estate plan, but some people fail to recognize when the time is right to establish one. Many people dismiss the idea as something they only need to worry about after retirement, but that is not the case. Here are...
The advantages of durable powers of attorney in your estate plan
If you are thinking about estate planning but finding the process a bit overwhelming, you could use the step-by-step approach starting with the basics. Among these are durable powers of attorney (POA), which provide healthcare and financial benefits and peace of mind...
Tips to avoid a contested will
The grieving process can bring out the worst in people sometimes, including during the reading of the will. Sometimes, family members contest the will if they believe it to be unreasonable or unfair. This delays the estate settlement and prolongs the entire grieving...
How does the payment of wages work after death?
When your loved one dies, the last thing on your mind is likely collecting his or her last paycheck. But eventually, you will need to get those wages, which can create problems if you are still dealing with probate. Luckily, Ohio law outlines what should happen in the...
Why do I need Medicaid planning?
Medicaid planning is a general term used to describe the process of maximizing your ability to use Medicaid. Preparing for Medicaid might involve several professionals and loved ones volunteering their time to help you live a better life in your old age. According to...
The 2 types of guardianships recognized in Ohio
When an Ohio adult becomes unable to manage his or her own personal affairs, it may warrant the appointment of a guardian or an individual who agrees to take legal responsibility over the incompetent party. Because guardianships strip away some of an individual’s...
How can you avoid common estate planning mistakes?
You probably already know how important it is to have an estate plan in place. Wills, trusts, and advanced directives protect your assets, your family, and yourself. However, creating an estate plan is only the first step in the process. You must also make certain...
Include these 3 components in a simple estate plan
Like many others in Ohio, you may have neglected to make an estate plan up until this point for whatever reason. You may have had concerns about the time or cost involved in creating one, or you may have felt as if you did not have enough assets until recently to...
