Artificial intelligence has made it easier than ever to gather information about legal topics, including estate planning. A few prompts can generate explanations of wills, trusts, powers of attorney and other planning tools in seconds. While this technology can be...
Trusted Southern Ohio Attorneys
Estate Planning
What to do when an executor refuses to serve in Ohio
You named someone you trusted to handle your estate, but now they have declined the role. This creates uncertainty for families already dealing with grief and the practical demands of settling an estate. Ohio law provides a clear process for appointing a replacement...
The importance of planning for incapacitation before it happens
Most people think about estate planning in terms of what happens after death -- not during their lifetime. However, it’s equally prudent to consider how your affairs will be managed if you become unable to make decisions for yourself due to an illness, injury or...
The estate planning mistake that could cost your family property
What estate planning mistake could cost your family property? You may feel confident that your home, farmland or family property will naturally pass to your loved ones after you are gone. However, that assumption could create unexpected problems. If you only have a...
Two-thirds of Americans do not have an estate plan
Studies have found that only around 33% of Americans have actually written a will or set up an estate plan. The other two-thirds have not yet taken this step, even though many of them will say that they know estate planning is important and they intend to make a plan...
What happens when a spouse dies intestate in Ohio?
Losing a spouse is a life-altering event. Becoming a widow or widower can impact one’s social relationships, financial reality and overall well-being. To add to these burdens is the reality that the law always has something to say when it comes to the property of a...
How can you choose an estate executor?
There are a lot of decisions you have to make when you’re creating an estate plan. While many people focus on things like passing down their assets, there are others that have to be made. One of these is deciding who will be your executor. Choosing an executor is one...
Can you stop someone from mismanaging their inheritance?
Having worked hard to build up some wealth to pass on to your family, it makes sense that you don’t want to see it wasted. Yet some beneficiaries may not be able to manage an inheritance sensibly. This could be due to their youth, or due to addictions to gambling,...
Who Should Be Your Executor/Trustee in Ohio? A Decision Guide (Plus Red Flags to Watch For)
Choosing the wrong executor or trustee can delay your estate, drain assets and damage family relationships. Ohio law sets clear standards for this role, and knowing what to look for helps you make a confident choice. What Ohio law requires Ohio places legal limits on...
What is an irrevocable trust?
People who are creating an estate plan have options for how they transfer assets to their loved ones. One of these options is a trust, which is classified as either a revocable or an irrevocable trust. Some people lean toward revocable trusts because they can be...