Partition of an Inherited Home After Probate Explained

After a loved one passes away, their assets usually go through a legal process called probate. Probate helps ensure that the person’s debts are paid and that their assets are passed on according to their will or Ohio law. Sometimes, more than one person inherits the same property, like a family home. When this happens, disagreements can arise about what to do with that home. If the co-owners cannot agree, the next step might involve something called a partition of an inherited home.
At Gudorf Law Group, LLC, we often help families navigate the partition of inherited property in Ohio. This can be a stressful and emotional time, especially if the property has sentimental value. Understanding how partition works and when it becomes necessary can help you make informed choices and protect your best interests.
What Does Partition of Inherited Property Mean?
Partition of inherited property is a legal process used to divide jointly owned property among heirs or beneficiaries. In Ohio, if two or more people inherit a home and can’t agree about what to do with it, any one of them can file a lawsuit to forc… Read More
What Is a Survivorship Deed?

If you're considering transferring your property to a loved one without going through the lengthy probate process, a survivorship deed could be the ideal solution. This simple legal tool ensures that your property passes directly to a co-owner upon your death, without the need for court intervention. At Gudorf Law Group, LLC, we help Ohio residents understand how a survivorship deed works and how it can simplify their estate planning.
Survivorship Deed Explained
A survivorship deed is a legal document that allows two or more people to own property together with the agreement that when one co-owner passes away, their share automatically transfers to the surviving owner(s). This automatic transfer eliminates the need for probate court, making the process faster and less costly for the surviving owner.
In Ohio, survivorship deeds are commonly used by married couples, but they can also be beneficial for parents, siblings, and even close friends who want to ensure a smooth transfer of property. If you're asking “what is a survivorship deed?”, think of it as a way to avoid the delays and costs of probate when passing down property. It ensures that your prope… Read More
What to Know About Irrevocable Life Insurance Trusts (ILIT) in Ohio

When planning your estate, you want to make sure your loved ones are protected and that your assets go where you intend. One powerful tool to help with this is an irrevocable life insurance trust, often called an ILIT. Gudorf Law Group, LLC, helps Ohio families understand how ILITs work and whether one could benefit their estate plan.
What Is an Irrevocable Life Insurance Trust?
An irrevocable life insurance trust is a type of trust that holds a life insurance policy outside of your estate. When done properly, this keeps the policy’s value and death benefits from being counted as part of your taxable estate. That means the money from the insurance policy doesn’t face estate taxes when you pass away.
The trust owns the policy, not you. This is important because it removes control from your hands. That might sound scary, but it comes with benefits. You give up the ability to change the trust later, but in return, the value of the policy is kept safe from taxes and sometimes creditors. Gudorf Law Group helps c… Read More