Estate Planning

When you serve as an executor or administrator of an estate, you may find that the deceased person's debts exceed the value of their assets. This situation, known as an insolvent estate, requires careful handling according to specific legal procedures. How does Ohio...

When your loved one in Ohio dies, you might wonder if a probate is necessary to securely bequeath their property and other assets to beneficiaries. Fortunately, you can bypass this process entirely with a Transfer on Death (TOD) Designation Affidavit. This document...

Losing a parent is hard, and handling their online accounts after their death can feel overwhelming. Ohio treats digital assets differently than physical property, so you may face delays if probate paperwork does not clearly authorize access. What counts as digital...

Owning a small business adds extra layers to estate planning because your personal wishes and your company’s future often connect. Planning ahead helps protect business value, reduce disputes, and give your family and employees clear direction. If you own a business...

Many people assume Ohio law restricts a parent's ability to exclude a child from an estate plan, yet the law grants wide discretion. You hold significant authority over how you direct your property, and clear drafting ensures your choices take effect without conflict....

When you think about estate planning, life insurance may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, it can play a major role in protecting your loved ones and ensuring your wishes are carried out. Life insurance can provide cash flow, cover expenses, and...

Blended families are common today, and they add unique challenges when it comes to estate planning. If you have stepchildren, remarriages, or shared assets from different relationships, a standard estate plan might not cover all your wishes. Planning ahead helps...

You may believe that a will is unnecessary if you don’t own much property. However, even with limited assets, having a will is still highly important. It ensures your wishes are followed and helps avoid complications for your family members after you're gone. What...

You were responsible and diligent and completed your estate plan decades ago. But as the years wore on, things may have transpired that caused you to rethink your earlier decision to appoint someone as executor. What might be some common reasons for making such a...

Have you come to rely on an in-home caregiver to help you out as you’ve gotten older, or maybe after being diagnosed with a chronic or serious medical condition that limits your activity? You’re certainly not alone. A lot of Ohioans do. You may see this person more...