Dying With or Without a Will in Ohio
At Heban, Murphree & Lewandowski, LLC, our goal is to make the probate process run as smoothly and efficiently as possible for you. The probate process begins once an individual passes away in which they become known as the decedent. Once they pass away, they either leave a last will & testament, or they do not. Their affairs then go through the court process known as probate in which someone is appointed to manage the decedent's affairs. If you have been selected as the designated individual, we would be happy to use our 150 years of combined legal experience to your advantage.
When the decedent leaves a will in Ohio, they are said as having died testate. Their affairs are then handled by the terms specified within the legal document. The name of an executor is typically defined within the will in which they become responsible for managing the affairs of the decedent. If no executor is named or no will exists (dying intestate), the probate court appoints an individual to take over. Their responsibilities include collecting the decedent's assets, paying off their debts, making sure the estate is appropriately passed down to the beneficiaries, handling all of the financial affairs, and finally closing up the estate.
Probate for Small Estates
Typically, the probate process lasts between nine months to a year. When a small estate is involved, the method may only take between two to four months. A small estate in Ohio is defined as one that either values at $35,000 or less or one in which is entirely passed over to the surviving spouse (valuing no more than $100,000). No matter the size of the estate you are dealing with, Heban, Murphree & Lewandowski, LLC can provide you with the legal counsel and necessary tools needed when handling the probate process. We are determined to get you through the process as efficiently as possible.
Speak with a Qualified Attorney
If you have been appointed by the probate court to handle the affairs of the decedent, our Rossford probate attorneys can ease you through the process. Having to deal with the passing of a loved one is already a difficult time, let alone having to deal with their affairs in a timely method. With Heban, Murphree & Lewandowski, LLC, by your side, there is no need to go through probate alone. We are dedicated to breaking down the legal terms involved and providing you with peace of mind.