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Failing to file probate can lead to significant legal complications and risks, especially for heirs, creditors, executors and estate administrators. Additionally, it may give rise to litigation, which can be time-consuming and costly.

Having a will is a helpful first step in basic preparation. But it does not prevent probate. A will simply allows you to communicate your wishes to the probate court. Your loved ones still must go through the probate process to legally enforce your wishes.

Probate is the legal process through which a deceased person's estate is administered. While it serves a necessary function in settling debts and distributing assets, it can also be time-consuming and expensive. In Ohio, probate can take anywhere from several months to over a year, and costs can include court fees, attorney fees, and other administrative expenses. By understanding these implications, you can take steps to avoid the probate process altogether.

The process of settling the estate of a loved one can be time consuming and emotionally draining. Finding your footing within the complex legal system can be a challenge, especially if you are unfamiliar with the process. In this blog post, we'll walk you through some key information to help guide you through the probate process with confidence.

While the reasons for not having a will vary, the result is the same for everyone: they don't get to choose who receives their property when they die. Instead, their assets are distributed according to the laws of their state. This process is called intestate succession.

We often think that if we're careful enough, and draft an estate plan, our estate won't have to go through probate when we die. But sometimes, the unexpected happens. Here are seven reasons why an estate might have to go through probate.

When a family member passes away, the last thing you want to be dealing with is paperwork. In an ideal situation, the legal concerns are so well handled in advance that you can grieve in peace. Setting up a revocable living trust is often the best option to avoid probate. Let's explore why that is.

If there was a villain to be played in a movie, chances are they were more than likely played by Christopher Lee. From terrifying audiences as "Count Dracula" in the old Hammer Horror movies, to “Saruman” in the Lord of the Rings and Hobbit trilogies, to Bond villain “Francisco Scaramanga” in The Man with the Golden Gun, he carved out a career that would last decades. Yet the illustrious actor's estate had a net worth of "nil" noted on documentation presented for probate. How could this be?

A revocable living trust is a legal document that allows you to maintain control over your assets while avoiding probate. Learn more about how it works with this comprehensive guide from the experts at The Law Offices of DuPont and Blumenstiel.

Most people don't see the legal opportunities available to them. How can you make things a little smoother and easier with your estate disbursement?