PROBATE ATTORNEY · AKRON, OH
Probate Estate Administration in Akron, OH
Spatz Law Group guides families in Akron and across Summit County through settling a loved one's estate, step by step, so you always know what comes next.
Being left in the dark by your attorney
The most common complaint about probate isn't the court. It's the attorney who stops returning calls. At Spatz Law Group, Ashleigh Moulder, our Client Services Director, keeps you updated as the estate moves forward, and Debra explains each step in plain English. You'll know where things stand without having to chase anyone down.
Probate court paperwork and deadlines
Probate runs on deadlines. In Ohio, the executor generally has to file an inventory of the estate's assets by a deadline set by Ohio law, and Summit County Probate Court expects accurate accountings after that. Missing a filing or listing an asset wrong can stall everything. Each document is prepared and filed for you, so nothing holds the estate up.
Paying debts the right way before distributing anything
It's tempting to hand out belongings or money early, especially when family is waiting. But Ohio law sets an order for paying debts, taxes and expenses, and an executor who distributes too soon can be held personally responsible. You'll know exactly when it's safe to distribute, so you're protected.
Closing the estate so it never has to be reopened
A missed bank account or an unrecorded deed can force a closed estate to be reopened, sometimes at real cost. Before the estate closes, every asset is checked and every transfer completed, so your family can truly move on.
Your attorney
Debra A. Spatz
Licensed in Ohio since 2008 · Ohio Supreme Court Reg. #0083356
Chicago-Kent College of Law · University of Illinois, Finance
Meet DebraBefore your first conversation
Bring the death certificate, the original will if there is one, and any statements for bank accounts, retirement accounts, life insurance and real estate. A list of the heirs and their contact information helps too.
★★★★★Google review
If you are looking for a local estate attorney in Bath, Ohio, Deb Spatz with Spatz Law Group is truly exceptional. I know several people who have worked with Deb, and they consistently share nothing but positive experiences. Deb takes the time to get to know you and your story, allowing her to create a plan that brings real peace of mind for you and your family. She even offers the option to record a legacy video for your loved ones, which is an incredibly meaningful and lasting gift. Do not wait until it is too late. I highly recommend calling Deb today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simpler process for small estates in Ohio?
Yes. If the estate's probate assets are $35,000 or less, or $100,000 or less when a surviving spouse inherits everything, Ohio allows a shorter process called release from administration. It still goes through the probate court, but with far less paperwork and time. Assets that pass outside probate, like accounts with a named beneficiary, don't count toward those limits.
Who serves as executor if there's no will?
The probate court appoints an administrator. Ohio gives priority to the surviving spouse, then to the next of kin who are willing to serve. Family members can agree among themselves on who should apply, which makes the process smoother.
Does the executor get paid in Ohio?
Yes, Ohio sets a fee schedule for executors based on the value of the estate. Many family members who serve choose to waive the fee, especially when they're also inheriting. Debra explains the options so you can decide.
Does a house with a transfer on death designation go through probate?
No. If your loved one recorded a transfer on death designation affidavit, the home passes directly to the named beneficiary. The beneficiary records an affidavit with the county recorder to complete the transfer, without opening a probate case for the house.
Can family live in the house while the estate is open?
Sometimes, but the executor is responsible for the property until it's distributed or sold. Keep the home insured, since many policies limit coverage on a vacant house, and agree in writing on who pays the utilities and taxes in the meantime.
Can I be an executor if I live outside Ohio?
Often, yes. Ohio generally allows a nonresident to serve as executor if they're related to the person who died by blood, marriage or adoption, or if they live in a state that would allow an Ohio resident to serve. An Ohio attorney handles the court filings locally. These rules apply to an executor named in a will. If there's no will, the rules for who can serve as administrator are stricter, so ask before assuming you can serve from out of state.