Probate Attorneys in Dayton, OH
Serving Clients Throughout Ohio
The passing of a loved one is filled with a time of grief and pain. You need time to deal with the loss of a loved one even if that loss was expected. Unfortunately, the emotional aspects of the grieving process are often overshadowed by the practical tasks of dealing with final arrangements and the decedent’s probate estate. Regardless of whether your loved one passed away owning a great deal of assets or the estate will be small, the duties and obligations involved in probating an estate can be overwhelming and exhausting.
The probate attorneys of Lovett & House are dedicated to making the process as stress-free and easy for you as possible. We understand that you need time to grieve the loss of your loved one. The probate process can be confusing and complex. The legal requirements that you must comply with in order to settle the estate can be difficult to understand. Let our compassionate and skilled lawyers handle the legal requirements of settling your loved one’s affairs while you focus on what is truly important—the healing process.
What is the Probate Court?
Each county in Ohio has a probate court that supervises the probate process. The court in the county of the decedent’s residence at the time of death is the court that has jurisdiction over the estate. The court reviews all of the documents filed by the executor and other parties of interest, reviews each transaction conducted by the executor, and presides over any litigation regarding the probate estate.
Other matters that are under the jurisdiction of the probate court include guardianship proceedings, marriage licenses, petitions to commit a mentally ill person, land appropriation cases, and adoptions.
Understanding the Probate Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Navigating the probate process can be overwhelming, especially during a time of loss. At Lovett & House, we believe that knowledge is power. Our dedicated team has created a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you understand what to expect throughout the probate journey.
- Step 1: Initiating the Probate Process
- The process begins by filing a petition with the probate court to open the estate of the deceased. This step is crucial as it formally starts the legal proceedings.
- Step 2: Identifying and Inventorying Assets
- Once the court approves the petition, the next step is to identify and inventory all assets owned by the deceased. This includes real estate, bank accounts, personal belongings, and investments.
- Step 3: Settling Debts and Taxes
- Before distributing assets to heirs, all debts and taxes owed by the estate must be settled. Our attorneys can guide you through this process to ensure compliance with Ohio laws.
- Step 4: Distributing Assets
- After debts are settled, the remaining assets can be distributed according to the will or Ohio law if no will exists. We ensure that this distribution is carried out fairly and legally.
- Step 5: Closing the Estate
- Finally, once all assets have been distributed and all necessary paperwork is completed, the estate can be closed. This marks the end of the probate process.
By understanding each step of the probate process, you can feel more confident and prepared. Our team at Lovett & House is here to support you every step of the way, ensuring a smooth and efficient probate experience.
Why Choose Lovett & House for Your Probate Needs?
At Lovett & House, we understand that navigating the probate process can be overwhelming and emotionally taxing. That's why our dedicated team of probate attorneys is committed to providing personalized service tailored to your unique situation.
Here are several reasons why clients in Tipp City, OH, and beyond choose us:
- Expert Guidance: Our attorneys have extensive knowledge of Ohio probate laws, ensuring that you receive accurate advice and representation throughout the entire process.
- Compassionate Support: We recognize the emotional challenges that often accompany probate matters. Our team is here to listen and support you every step of the way.
- Transparent Communication: We prioritize clear and open communication, keeping you informed about your case's progress and addressing any concerns promptly.
- Comprehensive Services: Whether you need assistance with will validation, estate administration, or resolving disputes, we offer a full range of probate services to meet your needs.
- Proven Track Record: Our firm has successfully helped countless clients navigate the probate process, earning a reputation for excellence and reliability in the Tipp City area.
Choosing Lovett & House means choosing a partner who is dedicated to protecting your interests and guiding you through the complexities of probate law. Contact us today to discuss your situation and discover how we can assist you.
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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
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"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.
Administering a Decedent’s Estate
Your executor is the person appointed to take control of your assets and perform the duties required to probate your estate. The executor of an estate manages the assets of the decedent until those assets can be distributed to the heirs.
Other duties of an executor include:
- Review the decedent’s will to determine the heirs named in the will;
- Determine if there are other heirs according to intestate laws that must be notified of the probate;
- Conduct an inventory of the decedent’s property and prepare the inventory forms required by the court;
- Pay the final expenses and bills of the decedent;
- Review and pay, if valid, claims filed by creditors of the decedent;
- Respond to any challenges to the will or the distribution by heirs or potential heirs;
- Respond to any litigation filed against the estate by creditors, heirs, or other parties in interest;
- Distribute the decedent’s assets in accordance with the will or Ohio intestate laws;
- File final income tax returns for the decedent and estate tax returns, if required; and,
- Prepare a final accounting to file with the probate court of all receipts, disbursements, and distributions made on behalf of the estate.
Even a small, straightforward estate requires a great deal of time and expertise to complete the required documents. The legal issues involved with probating an estate can be difficult to understand and mistakes can be costly. Many executors find that they need a probate attorney to guide them through the Ohio probate process and assist with completing the necessary probate forms to finalize the estate.
Hire an Experienced Probate Attorney in Dayton, OH
The probate attorneys of Lovett & House Co., LPA are here to help you through the probate process – with 6 local offices. We are sensitive to the emotions and difficulties that many families go through when probating the estate of a loved one. Our attorneys want to take the confusion and frustration out of the probate process by helping the executor discharge his or her duties while avoiding unnecessary conflicts with family members or other parties in interest.
If you have questions about the probate process, contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation with one of our experienced Dayton probate attorneys.
