PROBATE / ESTATE ADMINISTRATION

Probate refers to the process established by law to transfer the assets of a deceased person (the "decedent") where those assets are held solely in that person's name at his or her death. This process provides for appointment of a person to administer the estate, which includes gathering assets, paying just debts or taxes (if any) and distributing the net assets according to the terms of the decedent's Will. If there is no Will, Ohio law provides to whom the assets are to be distributed.

The existence of a valid will, executed with the assistance of an attorney, aids greatly in making administration of a decedent's estate smooth and more cost effective. Often finalizing the affairs of a deceased person involves probating and trust administration or handling of assets that have been titled to avoid formal probate administration.

TRUST ADMINISTRATION

Where a person has transferred assets to a trust, legal assistance is generally required for trust administration upon that person's death. Special rules apply that affect tax liability and the responsibility of the trustee based upon the terms of the trust.

Our firm has more than twenty-five years of experience assisting people in the administration of estates or trusts, and in finalizing the affairs of loved ones.