The probate process involves many steps and procedures, all necessary to administer the deceased's estate. An essential step that the executor cannot overlook is organizing the assets by creating an estate inventory. This document may seem like a simple list, but it...
Estate Planning
Does Ohio accept handwritten and oral wills?
Intestacy happens when someone dies without a valid will. When this occurs, the probate court will decide how to distribute your properties, and this might go against your wishes. To avoid that scenario, you may create an estate plan with your last will and testament...
Can you change a court-appointed guardian?
A guardian is an individual appointed by the court to care for another person — the ward — who can’t manage their own affairs due to a disability, age, or incapacity. But what if the ward doesn’t like their guardian for some reason? Is it possible to change a...
Why every new parent needs an estate plan
Becoming a parent is a joyous and transformative experience, filled with moments of excitement and anticipation. Amidst the diapers, baby bottles and sleepless nights, it is easy to overlook the importance of estate planning. Crafting a thoughtful estate plan is an...
The first step of probate: Locating the will
In Ohio, any person in possession of a will has the responsibility to file it with the probate court after the death of the testator (the person who made the will). Typically, this is the executor's job, so the testator should choose someone who they know will fulfill...
5 ways to protect your finances when considering long-term care
Estate planning and ensuring financial security in the face of potential long-term care needs is not always straightforward. In other words, Ohio residents doing this must navigate a complex landscape. Taking proactive steps to protect your finances is important for a...
What are the downsides of revocable trusts?
Establishing a revocable trust can yield many benefits, such as better control, privacy and reduced costs. It can sound too good to be true, but these advantages can be possible based on the situation, the estate’s size and asset types. Revocable trusts are great...
Gray divorce and estate planning: Unburdening an adult child
Gray divorce and estate planning have intertwined considerations that will most likely impact an adult child. For long-term couples divorcing at 50 or older, their children may have long left the marital nest. While child custody, support or visitation may no longer...
When do you need to update your estate plan?
Estate planning is a vital task that helps you make sure your assets go where you want them to after your passing. But creating an estate plan is not a one-time task; it is something you need to revisit and update occasionally. As your life changes, so do your...
Financial considerations for Medicaid planning in Ohio
When the stakes are highest, planning proves paramount. If you or a loved one ends up in a particularly vulnerable condition at any point in life, you may realize how crucial it is to have come prepared than be completely defenseless. The Medicaid program has federal...