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Like myself, estate planning attorneys here in Cincinnati often recommend ways to avoid probate to clients. I thought a basic definition of probate and why one would want to avoid it might be in order.    First, probate is the legal process through which a...

The following is an interesting article written by Robert J. Green and published on 7/5/23 online at COUER d'ALENE /POST CALLS PRESS. My initial reaction to his estate planning question was, of course not, but read on for how he makes a case that maybe you CAN...

While no one would ever accuse estate planning of being a "trendy" service, those who practice it have seen some changes over recent years that might be called a trend. Having practiced estate planning for many years, I believe all of these "trends" benefit clients....

This article from Forbes, written by Bob Carlson was published on 6/25/23 online.  It's a basic primer on wills and trusts which can be helpful if you find yourself unsure what you need. "There are two tools available for passing the bulk of your financial legacy. The...

Have you reached your peak earning years? For most, that period is usually between ages 40 and 55. It is also the time for many that they've never been busier. A demanding career, family responsibilities, and more can feel overwhelming. Maybe you've got kids in...

Contrary to what may be popular belief, research shows most small business owners don’t want to pass the business on to their children. I found this article interesting; I hope you do too. I found it online at CPA Practice Advisor on 6/20/23. Isaac M. O’Bannon wrote...

I ran across an article that cited statistics from the most recent U.S. Census regarding pets that I found interesting and, frankly, surprising. The stand-out statistic was that more families in the U.S. now have pets in their homes than children. Researchers assume...

This article from Kiplinger online on 6/12/23 by John M. Goralka is a great way to describe the different needs that a traditional family might have versus a blended family regarding estate planning. While he references California laws in a few places, the information...

This is a good question and one that is confusing to many people. Does one have to have a probate lawyer here in Ohio if there wasn't a will? The short answer to that is no. Ohio does not REQUIRE anyone to retain the services of a probate lawyer. It's entirely up to...