Probate
Experienced Ohio trusts and estates attorneys help guide you through the process
Probate follows what is typically a painful emotional loss. At Kessler & Ballenger Co., L.P.A., we have more than 60 combined years of experience in probate law. We know how to ease the stress of probate by guiding executors and beneficiaries through the complex process.
The process of probate
Most executors have rarely, if ever, probated a will. They know little about the process. Kessler & Ballenger Co., L.P.A. can guide you through all aspects of probate, including:
- Filing the will with the Ohio probate court
- Developing the best strategy for fairly and expeditiously probating the estate
- Finding and collecting assets
- Closing and opening bank accounts
- Transferring assets from the deceased to the estate
- Paying estate taxes
- Valuing, managing, preserving and liquidating the estate
- Locating beneficiaries
- Hiring experts, when appropriate
Valuing and managing the estate
Our attorneys assist executors with the arduous process of collecting, managing, valuing, protecting and liquidating the assets of the estate. We have a team of experts available to assist in every aspect of estate probate. When appropriate, the firm calls upon accountants, financial advisors, real estate agents, property managers and other professionals to assist with executor duties. We can access expert opinions about unique assets such as antiques, rare books, automobiles, and other collectables for accurate valuation, management, and possible sale.
Probate disputes
Even in apparently straightforward estate cases, there are sometimes disputes between beneficiaries. Our attorneys’ professional courtroom presence can calm the emotionally charged process of probating a challenged will or a disputed executor or judicial decision. When it is in the best interests of our client to preserve cordial familial relationships, our attorneys are adept at mediating these disputes. When necessary, we assertively defend our client’s beneficiary rights within the Ohio probate court.
Contact the thorough estate planning lawyers at Kessler & Ballenger Co., L.P.A.
We serve clients in Columbus, Ohio and throughout the surrounding counties. To schedule an appointment, call us at 614-888-3185 or contact us online today.