What are the legal requirements and process for transferring a decedent’s firearms during probate in Ohio (OH)?
FAQ: Transferring a Decedent’s Firearms During Probate in Ohio Short answer: The estate’s personal representative (executor/administrator) must secure the firearms, follow probate property and distribution rules, and complete any federal and state firearm transfer requirements. Transfers that would place a firearm into the hands of someone legally prohibited are unlawful. Consult the probate court and, […]
Read article →What documentation is needed to prove ownership when filing a surplus funds claim in Ohio (OH)
Detailed Answer — Proving Ownership to Claim Surplus Funds in Ohio When a foreclosed property sells for more than the debts paid from the sale, Ohio law provides for distribution of those excess proceeds (often called “surplus funds” or “overage”). The distribution process is governed by the Ohio Revised Code sections addressing sheriff's sales and […]
Read article →How to protect life insurance proceeds when there is no named beneficiary from creditor claims in estate administration — OH
Detailed Answer Key principle: If a life insurance policy names a living beneficiary, the insurer generally pays the proceeds directly to that beneficiary outside probate and those proceeds are usually not part of the decedent’s probate estate. If there is no named beneficiary (or the beneficiary predeceased the insured and no contingent beneficiary exists), the […]
Read article →What should I do if an heir refuses to return estate property and the estate is still open — OH
Disclaimer: This article explains general Ohio probate procedures and is not legal advice. Consult a licensed Ohio attorney for guidance about your specific situation. Detailed Answer — What to do when an heir refuses to return estate property while the estate is still open (Ohio) Short answer: document what is missing, notify the personal representative […]
Read article →Can I become the personal representative of my sister's estate? (OH)
Can I become the personal representative of my sister's estate? Short answer: Often yes — but it depends on whether your sister left a valid will, who else has priority under Ohio law, whether you are eligible, and whether the probate court approves your appointment. This article explains how appointment works in Ohio, what the […]
Read article →What options do heirs have when an estate administrator becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute assets? — OH
Detailed Answer: What heirs can do when an Ohio estate administrator stops communicating or refuses to distribute assets This guide explains the practical steps heirs can take under Ohio law when an estate administrator (also called an administrator, executor, or personal representative) becomes unresponsive or refuses to distribute estate assets. It assumes you are an […]
Read article →How do I apply to be appointed as the personal representative of a deceased relative’s estate? (OH)
Detailed Answer — How to apply to be appointed as a personal representative under Ohio law If a relative dies, the person who handles the estate is usually called the personal representative (sometimes called an executor if named in a will, or an administrator if appointed for an intestate estate). In Ohio, the probate court […]
Read article →How Can Heirs Petition the Court to Reopen a Closed Estate to Claim Unclaimed Assets in Ohio?
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance on your specific situation. Detailed Answer Under Ohio law, a probate estate that has been fully administered and closed can be reopened if new assets surface after final distribution. Ohio Revised Code §2113.16 (O.R.C. 2113.16) governs […]
Read article →Process for Inventorying and Distributing Estate Assets Among Multiple Heirs in Ohio
When someone passes away in Ohio leaving multiple heirs, the personal representative (formerly executor) must follow a legal process to inventory and distribute the estate. Below is an overview under Ohio law. Detailed Answer 1. Appointment of Personal RepresentativeThe probate court appoints a personal representative to manage the estate. This person files a petition and, […]
Read article →How Do Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Ohio?
How Heirs Locate and Claim Unclaimed Property of a Deceased Relative in Ohio Disclaimer: This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult an attorney for guidance specific to your situation. Detailed Answer When a person dies, they may leave behind assets—bank accounts, safe deposit contents, insurance proceeds, or unpaid […]
Read article →