The probate process includes offering a Last Will & Testament, if there is one, and securing the appointment of an executor or administrator. After appointment of the executor or administrator, the assets of the deceased are accounted for through an estate inventory. Debts of the deceased are paid. Sometimes assets are sold. Once all of the debts have been settled, distributions can be made to beneficiaries according to the Last Will & Testament (or according to the statutes of descent and distribution when there is no Last Will & Testament). Once all of the assets are distributed, a final account can be filed and the estate closed. The entire probate process can take anywhere from several weeks to several years, depending upon the nature and complexity of the estate.  

The estate executor or administrator has a fiduciary duty to follow the law and to do what is in the estate’s best interest. A breach of that duty can result in civil or criminal liability. Because the probate process is complex and requires a comprehensive understanding of Ohio probate law, estate fiduciaries typically retain experienced legal counsel to assist them in carrying out their duties. Attorney fees for these services are paid by the estate, not the executor or administrator personally.  

Attorney Powell has extensive experience probating small, medium and large estates, and understands how to use probate laws to expedite the probate process, reduce debts of the estate, and increase the percentage of assets ultimately distributable to beneficiaries.

If you are in the Summit County, Ohio area and in need of a probate attorney, contact us today!