An irrevocable trust is known for its permanency, which comes with some very specific benefits. These include protections from your creditors and possibly tax reduction benefits. These trusts are often designed to last for decades, but life’s circumstances and state...
Probate
What to do if you have been disinherited
Realizing your loved one excluded you from receiving an inheritance through their will or trust can be devastating. In addition to mourning the loss, you may experience different emotions. You may be confused, sad and angry about their decision. But what should you...
What happens to a decedent’s debts?
Many people pass away with credit accounts still open. These may be credit cards, automobile loans, mortgages, medical bills and a host of other types. Those debts typically don’t go away when the account holder passes away. Decedent’s debts are handled during the...
Can I avoid probate in Ohio with a trust?
When a loved one passes away, one of the first things to address is the probate process. While it can be lengthy and expensive, it is not always unavoidable. In Ohio, a trust can be a useful tool to bypass probate, saving both time and money. But how does this work,...
3 typical probate challenges and how to overcome them
Probate can feel overwhelming, especially when dealing with the loss of a loved one. Navigating the legalities and ensuring the deceased's wishes are honored requires patience and understanding. Here are three common hurdles in probate and ways to resolve them....
3 common triggers for sibling disputes during probate
Sibling rivalry does not always end in childhood. When a parent passes away and leaves an estate that needs to be divided, old tensions can resurface, and new conflicts can emerge. Estate administration often creates a perfect storm for family disputes. By...
Is probate always necessary when settling an estate?
When a family member dies, dealing with legal paperwork is the last thing anyone wants to do. That is why many people dread probate. Probate is the process of handling and distributing your loved one's belongings after their death. While the probate process is often...
How do taxes work during probate?
Losing a loved one brings emotional challenges, and dealing with their estate can feel overwhelming. When you add tax obligations to the mix, the probate process might seem even more daunting. Many executors worry about handling taxes correctly while managing their...
Preserving family harmony through estate administration
Losing a loved one is never easy. The last thing you want during this challenging time is for your family to fight over the estate. Sadly, this happens often and can hurt family relationships. That's where professional estate administration comes in. It lets a neutral...
What to do when you can’t find someone’s will
In the midst of grief after losing a loved one, legal affairs are typically the last thing a family wants to deal with. However, finding out whether the deceased left a will is more than just a legal formality. It is a way to honor their legacy and ensure their wishes...