Dedicated Bucyrus Counselor Assists with All Aspects of Estate Administration

Thorough Ohio lawyer helps clients efficiently complete probate

Distributing a loved one’s estate can be cumbersome without a skilled attorney to guide you. At Eyer Law, Ltd., in Bucyrus, I know how to effectively navigate the court system and represent clients in North Central Ohio in all phases of probate. With years of experience in estate matters, I will ensure you understand your rights and responsibilities. Whether you need help with starting the probate process, transferring assets or addressing a beneficiary dispute, I will explain what to expect and develop strategies to protect your interests.

What is probate and how do you start the process?

Probate is a court procedure that is necessary to distribute the property of some deceased individuals. Anyone who dies with property solely in his or her name will likely have assets subject to probate. First, a petition must be filed with the probate court in the county where the deceased lived. The court will then consider the petition and approve an executor or appoint an administrator. Probate can be straightforward or complicated, depending on the size of the estate and whether any contests are raised. I am skilled at completing probate as smoothly as possible and will ensure you follow the proper procedures.

What are the duties of the executor?

The executor is responsible for completing many duties and faces potential legal liability if they fail to do so. These include:

  • Provide notice to heirs, beneficiaries and creditors of the death and opening of probate
  • Inventory, gather and transfer the assets to the estate
  • Pay outstanding debts
  • Filing an accounting of assets and paid debts.
  • Distribute any remaining assets to beneficiaries.

Working with an experienced attorney can help to avoid legal problems, and I will support and guide you every step of the way.

What are common types of probate disputes?

When a loved one dies, family members can find themselves at odds. Examples of contests that can be raised during the probate process include:

  • The will is invalid
  • Undue influence was used to secure a pre-death gift or transfer
  • The executor breached a fiduciary duty
  • A family member is concealing assets

These circumstances can be overwhelming, but you do not have to go through it alone. I will fully evaluate your situation and can devise pragmatic solutions to highly complex issues.

Can you avoid probate?

Probate can be expensive and lengthy. With the right planning, however, it can be simplified or avoided. Some tools and options frequently used to exempt property from probate are:

  • Trusts
  • Joint accounts/ownership
  • Payable- and transfer- on-death designations in deeds and other asset ownership documents

Probate is not intrinsically bad, but it is often beneficial to reduce the size of the estate subject to probate, which can in turn lessen expense and delay.

Contact a responsive Ohio law firm to schedule a free consultation

At Eyer Law, Ltd., I represent clients across North Central Ohio in all matters and stages of the probate process. Call 419-834-2193 or contact me online today to schedule a free consultation at my Bucyrus office.