ProSeniors is correct. From your description, the only asset you would have to probate is the $40 bank account and it would cost more to probate it than it is worth.

Unless there's a beneficiary on the title, the car will have to be probated. Your stepfather's next of kin are entitled to the car. If they were all willing to assign their interest to you, then you could get the car.

I've never heard of anybody getting out of paying the Medicaid claim by waiting for the statute of limitations to run.

Here in Ohio the answer depends on a number of factors. Being appointed the administrator of the estate is a good first step. If the sibling has established residency you may need to commence eviction proceedings to get them to leave.

All in all, I recommend sitting down with a qualified... View More

You need to talk to a local attorney for help. I recommend Trent Stover in Sidney, OH.

You probably need to file a partition action to force the sale. Except, the mortgage company may beat you to forcing another sale. A partition action can take months (or years) before you reach the end. I recommend you find a real estate attorney to advise you what your rights are.

The language of the will is critical here. Does it address a predeceased child? If not, then R.C. 2107.52 will apply.

You are not required to accept the duties and obligations of trustee. To the extent that you have accepted the duties and wish to resign, I recommend obtaining counsel.

What is the issue here? Are you concerned that the trustee didn't distribute all the money? If so, this would be alarming. But, if you're concerned that the trustee has kept a checking account open after all money has been distributed, and is using the account for personal reasons, then... View More

There's no central database that I know of, so we take these on a case-by-case basis. But, you can do things, like forwarding mail, pulling tax returns, and pulling bank records, to help you along.

It is not too late. Any Ohio resident can apply to the court to administer the estate. I recommend having the estate pay for an attorney.

A judgment entry approving Inventory is the courts authentication of what has been presented to the court as actual assets and their accepted value by the court. Another hearing is likely for the termination of the estate.

Generally, you need to pay the administrative costs, creditors, taxes, and beneficiaries, and then file a final account. Be careful...you could be personally liable if you don't do it right.

I understand your frustration. The best way to get it over is to hire an attorney to help file the final account. This can help get it over with and also help make sure you don't run into any problems in the future. See the Find A Lawyer tab.

If mom is unmarried and you are her only child then you are the only heir under intestate law (no will)

The will probably results in you and your sibling(s) getting the house. A transfer on death affidavit must be recorded prior to death to be enforceable. If you're in Central Ohio, I'd be happy to look at it for you.

Depends on the court and the formatting requirements. Try searching by name instead of case number.

As a beneficiary, you are entitled to notice of the various stages of the case. You may also waive your right to those notices...and this is commonly done. If you have a copy of every document you signed, look them over.

Not sure what you're asking about. I'm in Columbus. Feel free to call.

Medicaid could have an interest in the estate. But, you should be able to get paid the funeral costs back at a minimum. Give us a call and we can help.