When a person dies, his or her surviving loved ones and family members may be left with complicated financial and property concerns regarding the person’s estate. Combined with the emotional impact and grief over the person’s death, such issues can be confusing and overwhelming. This is especially true for those who have been named as executors or trustees of the decedent’s estate. At Erb Legal LLC, our experienced estate administration attorneys are equipped to help you understand and carry out your assigned duties in accordance with the decedent’s estate plan and all applicable state laws.
According to Ohio law, any property that is owned solely by a decedent at the time of his or her death must go through probate before it can be distributed to the decedent’s heirs. Property that is jointly owned with survivorship rights, property under the control of a trust, and property that has a designated beneficiary may be exempt from probate. Comprehensive estate planning is crucial in ensuring the efficient administration of an estate. You deserve the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your assets will go where you want them and that your loved ones will not face unnecessary complications. Our attorneys have the knowledge and skills to provide the guidance you need.
At Erb Legal LLC, we realize that managing a deceased person’s estate in any capacity can be difficult. Executors are responsible for a number of important duties, including:
An executor (or executrix) may be named by the decedent in his or her will. If no executor is named or the named executor is unwilling or unable to take on the responsibilities, the probate court will appoint someone to fill the role. With this in mind, we realize that many executors, trustees, and other fiduciaries do not always understand the full scope of their duties. We work closely with such individuals to help ensure proper management of the estate.
Administering an estate will always have its challenges, but some situations are even more complicated. Executors and trustees are often accused of misconduct and malfeasance by would-be heirs who are unhappy with the decedent’s decisions. At Erb Legal LLC, we provide guidance and representation for fiduciaries in all types of estate litigation proceedings. Our lawyers will help you protect your rights and your reputation as you carry out your assigned responsibilities.
At our firm, we also represent family members and other interested parties who believe that a fiduciary has not properly carried out the duties assigned to him or her. Executors, trustees, and other fiduciaries are responsible for acting in the best interest of the decedent’s estate. If a fiduciary named in your loved one’s estate plan has not handled his or her duties properly, our attorneys will help you explore your options for taking action.
If you have been named as an executor or trustee of a person’s estate, one of our skilled attorneys can provide the guidance you need. Contact our office by calling (330) 446-3606 for a free consultation today. We serve clients in Medina, Brunswick, Wadsworth, Akron, Wooster, Rittman, Summit County, Wayne County, and Medina County, Ohio.