Estate Planning

For many Ohio families, farming is just “in their blood” and part of their identity. The family farm isn’t just a piece of property – it’s also a primary source of income and a physical representation of decades of hard work.  This can create some difficult issues...

During probate proceedings, personal representatives, also known as executors, must resolve lingering financial obligations. Debts, end-of-life expenses and even taxes can impact estate administration. Knowing what to expect during the probate process can help...

Ideally, you should start thinking about the changes you want to make to your estate plan – such as whom you want to speak for you if you can’t speak for yourself and whom you want to inherit your property and other assets – as soon as your marriage sours. If your...

Healthcare directives help adults prepare for medical decisions during serious illness or incapacity. They outline your personal wishes, name trusted decision makers and reduce stress for your family.  Having clear advance directives empowers your medical team to...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...