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by Greg Aler   When your kids or grandkids get a new set of LEGOS, it always comes with instructions. Same with that assemble-it-yourself furniture from the big-box retailer (or at least, we hope it comes with intelligible instructions). But when it comes to living life, there are no instructions, even when we need them […]

Using a life estate to transfer a house or other real property has been a planning technique used by many seniors.  But what exactly is a life estate?  Simply put, a life estate is a legal arrangement to transfer property upon a person’s death.  One person (typically the giver) retains or is given an interest in the property for their lifetime.  This […]

Ohio’s laws on Medicaid estate recovery are among the most aggressive in the country. Following the death of a Medicaid beneficiary, the state must seek reimbursement for the cost of benefits paid on behalf of a beneficiary during his or her lifetime. While most states limit reimbursement only to the assets of the Medicaid beneficiary’s estate that pass […]

How can I make sure my loved ones get my personal property? Read below to learn three different techniques used to distribute your “stuff” at your passing.   A critical aspect of any estate plan is the decision of how your tangible personal property will be distributed when you die.  What exactly is tangible personal […]

What if I told you there was a way you could protect one of your biggest assets from the nursing home and the Medicaid “spend-down.” For many seniors, learning that there is a way to shield their house or their family farm from the cost of long-term care is some of the best news they […]

The answer is no! One of the largest myths surrounding probate is that designating the distribution of your assets and possessions through a will, avoids the probate process. Even if you have a will, your estate will still end up in probate.   What You Need to Know About the Probate Court Process   If […]

Protecting Assets from “The Three Big Bad Wolves”   Many of our clients have worked tirelessly and saved for decades to ensure a comfortable retirement and a legacy to pass on to their heirs. Sadly, due to a lack of pre-retirement preparation, some have seen their nest egg depleted by the Three Big Bad Wolves: […]

As Elder Law Attorneys, we are often asked this question. The simple answer follows.   If you have something you don’t want to lose to the nursing home, an Asset Protection Trust is right for you. Just make sure you set it up and fund it at least five years and one day before you […]

Navigating long-term care and nursing home care for your family   As our loved ones age, they may begin to need assistance with everyday tasks, and help to remain safe and healthy. Many families turn to live-in facilities for the daily care of a loved one, and if your family is looking for a nursing […]