Hilliard, OH Probate Lawyer
Dealing with a troublesome legal process like probate after the heartbreaking loss of a loved one is likely the last thing you want to do. The Ohio probate process is lengthy, expensive, and stressful, not to mention a huge undertaking for someone who has their own day-to-day responsibilities. The good news is that you don’t have to go through it alone!
Our compassionate Hilliard probate lawyer has been successfully guiding clients through probate for nearly two decades, saving them time and money along the way. She will help you understand your options for moving forward and answer any questions you may have along the way. Call today to schedule your free initial consultation and learn more about how we can make this difficult time just a little easier.
Probate In Ohio
Probate proceedings can vary for each estate, which heightens the importance of seeking guidance from our experienced Hilliard probate attorney. Our attorney can assess your loved one’s specific financial and personal circumstances to determine whether probate is necessary or if a simplified alternative is viable, then which assets require probate before distribution.
For Ohio specifically, an option known as small estate probate is available for estates valued below $100,000, directing all assets to the deceased’s spouse. Should assets not be designated for the spouse, the threshold is reduced to $35,000 to qualify for small estate probate.
It’s also crucial to note that not all assets are subject to probate. In Ohio, certain assets can seamlessly pass on to a joint owner or designated beneficiary, including real estate held in joint or survivorship form, assets with a transfer-on-death designation, insurance proceeds with a named beneficiary, payable-on-death bank accounts, and assets held in a trust.
Role Of The Executor
If the decedent passed with a will, then it should have named the individual who will serve as the executor of the estate, but if they had no will, then someone will need to be appointed by the court to the role of administrator, which is the same role. This person has a long list of duties to attend to, including:
- Formally notifying creditors, heirs, and the public of the death and of the opening of the probate case
- Gathering, inventorying, and appraising the decedent’s assets
- Settling outstanding debts with creditors
- Responding to creditor claims
- Filing final tax returns
- Paying any applicable taxes, including those on the estate
- Filing a formal accounting
- Communicating with the courts
- Distributing assets to beneficiaries
- Submitting a petition to close the estate
- And more.
When you choose to work with our seasoned Hilliard probate lawyer, she will be able to handle the bulk of these tasks on your behalf, so that you can focus your time and energy on your surviving family and on grieving. This way, you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is being handled correctly and efficiently.
Why Choose Our Hilliard Probate Lawyer
You are likely beginning to get an idea of why probate is such a complicated process, and you might be overwhelmed. Probate can be time-consuming, and it can also be tedious and expensive. If you are the executor or administrator, you could incur personal liability or additional fees for any mistakes (intention or unintentional) that are made, deadlines that are missed, etc.
At Dailey Law Offices, our lead attorney is well aware of the challenges that can arise during probate, as well as how they can be managed. We have worked with hundreds of clients and we’re here to help you navigate the maze of probate requirements. Our goal is to give you the resources and support you need to make the process as painless as possible. Call today to book your free consultation and let us take it from here.
We Can Help You Rebuild Your Future
Don’t face life’s challenges alone. Schedule your free consultation with Dailey Law Offices today and let us provide the professional guidance you need for divorce, custody, estate planning, or probate.
