It was reported this week that famed soul singer Aretha Franklin died without a Will or Trust. This problem not only throws all of her assets and liabilities into the public eye of probate and to the intestacy statutes, but also guarantees tens of thousands in...
Probate
When siblings become involved in a probate dispute
There are a number of problems that can arise with respect to the probate process, but disputes are not uncommon. Sometimes, these disputes can be particularly challenging, such as those which involve siblings. Unfortunately, a probate dispute which involves family...
Beneficiary disputes and holiday gatherings
We have addressed many facets of estate planning and probate administration in this blog, but there are far more issues that people working through such issues may have to face. Whether you are a beneficiary or have been given the responsibility of serving as an...
Handling your responsibilities as an executor
If you have been named the executor of an estate, you may be facing different challenges and you could have a number of questions about your responsibilities. At Buechner Haffer Meyers & Koenig Co., our Ohio firm is very familiar with the hurdles that can...
Engaged in a probate dispute? Have you considered mediation?
"Litigation rarely heals differences or promotes understanding," points out Jay Folberg, University of San Francisco School of Law professor and author of numerous books on alternative dispute resolution.He's right. Moreover, will contests and other disputes between...
Prince estate sues to block release of new EP ‘Deliverance’
When internationally famous artist Prince was set to release a new EP on the anniversary of his own death, it took everyone by surprise. Fans were elated, but that elation would turn to disappointment within a day of the announcement. The EP, containing a new song...
Americans die with an average debt of $61,554. What happens next?
What happens when someone dies still owing a substantial amount of money? It's a really important question -- and a lot of us wrongly assume we know the answer.Unfortunately, not knowing what happens to debt after death has left a lot of people in jeopardy of losing...
Which factors can complicate probate?
After the death of a loved one, one of the last things you probably want to do is navigate the legal system. Unfortunately, you will have to do this if your loved one's will goes through probate, which most do. Probate is the process of validating a will and...