Skip to Content
Top
Digital Estate Planning Centerville Ohio

Digital Estate Planning in Centerville, Ohio

Estate Planning Attorney to Protect Digital Assets

When engaging in estate planning, many people neglect to include their digital assets. You may be wondering- what are digital assets anyway? Digital assets can include online financial accounts, professional websites or blogs which generate income, digital currency (think Bitcoin), online photographs and even your personal, social media presence. You, like most people, likely have these accounts protected with passwords, which could make it impossible for your loved ones to access the accounts in the event of your death.

Because digital assets are relatively new- most courts have not yet caught up with the technology, therefore have no clear legal guidance in such a situation. Your loved ones may not even be aware of at least some of your digital assets, however, with a little foresight you can plan for these digital assets to transfer into the hands of those you would want to have them. While some of these planning steps require no more than writing your passwords down in a notebook and taking inventory of your digital assets, some have legal implications, requiring the assistance of a Centerville, Ohio estate planning lawyer.

Taking Inventory of Your Digital Assets

The first step is to take a thorough inventory of your digital assets. Think of the following when making your list:

Continue Reading Read Less

Your Family's Peace of Mind is Priceless

Read Our Former Clients' Five-Star Reviews

Our compassionate and through approach to Estate Planning makes a real difference in our clients' lives. Read reviews in their own words below.

    "The Best Customer Service"
    George and his crew provide the best in customer service and have an outstanding work ethic. They have always been there to help us when needed!
    - Mark S.
    "He Made It Easy"
    Bill was very friendly, knowledgeable, and kind. He made Estate Planning fun, fast and easy. We both feel relief to know our wishes are spelled out and our assets are protected!
    - Sherry C.
    "Peace of Mind"
    He explained each step 100 percent. He takes the time to talk WITH you, not TO you. I am so thankful I went to his seminar and took advantage of the free consultation.
    - Rosa S.
    "Made It Easy to Understand"
    George Lovett made our estate planning easy to understand and informative. He used our personal information to create a plan that was tailor-made to us.
    - Pamela O.
    "Expertise & Attentiveness"
    We were very pleased with the service, expertise, and attentiveness we received. We are glad that we choose Lovett & House for this.
    - Pat D.
    "A Pleasure to Work With"
    George Lovett has helped my family tremendously.  He always explained our options and took care of us with the utmost professionalism.
    - Marlene W.
    "Easy to Understand"
    They made it easy to update our estate planning needs. All our questions were answered in easy to understand language and we didn't feel overwhelmed.
    - Rita S.
    "Very Helpful"
    he Estate Trust planning was easy to do with the Lovett & House. George H. Lovett and William H. House were very knowledgeable and helpful.
    - Judith A.

Decide Who You Want to Have—Or Have Access To—Your Digital Assets

You may want some of your digital assets to simply be archived and saved, while others you might want to be deleted altogether. As an example, you would probably want your digital photos archived and saved, or copied so that multiple heirs could enjoy them, while you might want your Facebook or Pinterest accounts deleted. If you have a business partner, you might want any digital business assets and items to go directly to that partner. If the digital assets have a monetary value—like bank accounts or frequent flyer miles—you will need to designate who you want to have these assets. Do you want revenue-generating assets to go to those who will continue to manage them, or should they be cashed in and divided among those you choose?

Consider Naming a Digital Executor

You might choose a digital executor who will help settle your digital estate in the ways you specify, though this may not be a legally binding or enforceable designation. Speak to your Centerville, Ohio estate planning attorney about formalizing your digital estate plan in a legally binding document like your will or a will codicil, but do not include digital asset access information or passwords in your will, since they become a public document upon your death. You can simply refer in your will to an outside document which contains the necessary information.

Make Sure All Data Stored in the “Cloud” Is Backed Up to a Storage Device

Any digital assets stored in the Cloud should be backed up to a storage device or to the hard drive on your computer on a regular basis. This allows family members or those you designate, to access your digital information with fewer obstacles. Facebook has a One-Click Download option which will download all your FB data to your computer, and other companies have similar ways to back up your information.

Think About How Data Encryption Could Affect Your Digital Assets

In some cases, data which is digitally stored may be encrypted as a means of adding extra security and protection above and beyond your password. Encryption, however, can scramble your data, making it impossible for anyone without the necessary credentials to unscramble the data. As an example, your cell phone—which may potentially have financial data, medical data, and other important digital assets—could be virtually impossible for another person to access without the proper credentials. Keeping your passwords in a safe deposit box can make it possible for your loved ones to access any digital file you would want them to have access to following your death.

 Continue Reading Read Less

Getting the Help You Need With Digital Estate Planning

It is important that you not be caught off guard by the unexpected, leaving your loved ones unprepared. If you need help with your digital estate planning—and your “regular” estate planning—the experienced estate planning attorneys at Lovett & House Co., LPA are here for you. Our attorneys can answer all your questions about your digital estate planning, providing you with the peace of mind which comes from knowing your loved ones are well-taken care of after your death.

Preparing for Tomorrow, Together

Preserving What Matters Most

Lovett & House is here to help you plan for your family's future. Contact us today to get started with a consultation.

  • Please enter your first name.
  • Please enter your last name.
  • Please enter your phone number.
    This isn't a valid phone number.
  • Please enter your email address.
    This isn't a valid email address.
  • Please make a selection.
  • Please enter a message.
  • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy
  • Personalized Planning for Every Family

    We craft estate plans that reflect your unique needs, ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones cared for.

  • Clear Guidance Through Complex Decisions

    We make estate planning and probate understandable, helping you navigate each step with confidence and clarity.

  • Building Legacies Across Generations

    We help families protect their assets and plan for the future, offering practical solutions that stand the test of time.

  • Compassionate Support During Life’s Transitions

    Our team provides thoughtful solutions in a welcoming environment, addressing sensitive matters with care.