Creating a will is an essential yet often misunderstood process. To this end, being aware of common misconceptions can help Hamilton, OH, residents meet their estate planning goals. The Michael A. Newland Law Office brings over 20 years of litigation experience to the table, which allows them to offer every client the most accurate information. In addition to estate planning, this firm also has experience in many other practice areas, whether you are seeking a reliable criminal attorney or need assistance with family law issues.

The Michael A. Newland Law Office can also help you achieve a deeper understanding of what goes into estate planning. Being aware of the following misconceptions can simplify the process:

• Probate Is A Lengthy Process: While probate can take many years in some cases, it isn’t always a drawn out process. Longer probates typically occur due to family disagreements about the way assets are dispersed or when contending exceedingly large estates.
• Eldest Children Are Not Always The Executors: If there is no named executor within a will, the court will appoint one. Appointments are made based on relevant state laws, which usually stipulate that surviving spouses or domestic partners take on the role of executor. Named executors may be challenged in the event of a felony criminal conviction or an inability to perform essential duties.
• The State Takes All Without A Valid Will: While not having a will in place can cause quite a few issues, it’s not necessarily true that all assets will default to the state in this case. Each state has its own laws governing how property and other assets are distributed in the absence of a will. In most cases, your spouse and/or children will be the beneficiaries.

Interested in learning more about how to make a will? Contact the Michael A. Newland Law Office in Hamilton today to get a knowledgeable legal perspective based on your exact estate planning needs. Visit the website for more information on the preparation of wills, or call (513) 887-9595 to arrange your free initial consultation with a trusted attorney.