Probate and Estate Administration

Logically following estate planning is probate and estate administration-putting the plan into operation. Probate is the legal process that takes place after someone dies. It often involves:

• Proving in court that a deceased person's will is valid
• Identifying and inventorying the deceased person's property
• Having the property appraised
• Paying debts and taxes
• Distributing the remaining property as the will directs

At Slater & Zurz, we represent beneficiaries and fiduciaries, including executors, trustees, conservators, and guardians, in the following areas:

• Accounting Actions
• Claims Against Fiduciaries
• Trust Contests and Reformation
• Will Contests
• Will and Trust Construction and Litigation

We represent fiduciaries and beneficiaries in Ohio probate courts by filing the necessary pleadings to admit a decedent's will to probate, preparing documents and filings required under Ohio laws and procedures, and preparing income tax returns for the estate, as well as any required estate tax returns. In this area, we counsel fiduciaries regarding the rights and interests of beneficiaries, and recommend steps or actions to help the fiduciary operate in compliance with the appropriate fiduciary laws and avoid personal liability for their actions, or inaction. Experience enables us to counsel surviving spouses and children during this transition and help them make sound legal decisions for their future.