Estate Administration

When an individual dies, certain assets of the decedent (that is, non-probate assets) may be transferred by contract, such as joint and survivorship property, payable on death accounts, transfer on death property, and most life insurance and retirement benefits.

Other assets (that is, probate assets) may be transferred through proceedings in Probate Court. Most persons die owning both probate and non-probate assets, all of which generally require some type of documentation to complete the transfer. There are advantages and disadvantages of using non-probate or probate proceedings.

It is prudent to consult with Attorney Kenneth Sheppard to determine the best manner in which to proceed in handling a decedent’s estate.

It is the Probate Court's responsibility to ensure that probate assets are collected, maintained, and distributed among the decedent's heirs, beneficiaries, and/or creditors according to the direction of the decedent as expressed through a will or by Ohio’s laws of intestacy. This process is known as the administration of a decedent's estate.

Most estates should be finalized within 6 months of the date of the appointment of the personal representative. However, where family, creditor, tax, or other issues or disputes exist, the estate administration may take longer to conclude.

Probate Attorney, Kenneth L. Sheppard, Jr., and his staff are experienced with the nuances and facets encompassing Probate Law, and we encourage you strongly to consider us as an option, for assisting you with all of your probate, estate administration and guardianship needs.

Ohio Probate Law
Guardianship Law

For assistance, please call us here at Sheppard Law Offices for a FREE one-half (1/2) hour consultation today.

Contact Sheppard Law Offices and Attorney Kenneth L. Sheppard, Jr. to discuss your particular situation. Call today to schedule your free consultation at 1-888-615-8674.