Detroit, MI asked in Estate Planning for Ohio

Q: My father passed away last April, he left his wife and 5 children of which 4 had different mothers than his wife.

The wife wants nothing to do with the probate so how would we handle it now? I'm the oldest. But she keeps trying to get my younger brother to sign papers and things.

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1 Lawyer Answer

A: Use the Find a Lawyer tab to consult a local estate planning attorney who can review all the facts of your situation, the assets you have, what you and your wife want to happen with them, etc. There are several things you can do to minimize the need for probate, but every family situation is different. Your attorney can also discuss other important documents you both should have, including financial power of attorney, health care power of attorney, and living will, to provide instructions about your health decisions.

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