Estate Planning

Many people have misconceptions about estate planning. You may think estate planning is something only the wealthy need, or only the elderly require. The reality is, this could not be further from the truth. No matter your age, your income status, or the assets you have acquired, estate planning is essential. Estate planning involves taking steps to care for your loved ones, and also to make sure you can maintain dignity and autonomy in the face of tragedy.

Epling Law is a trusted estate planning firm in Central Ohio. We help our clients to make full use of legal tools available under Ohio law to protect their assets, to leave a legacy, and to control what happens in the event of incapacity. Our "modern" definition of estate planning looks like this:

I want to control my property while I am alive, whether in good health or poor health, so that I can:

1. Give what I want (money, property, business)
2. To whom I want (spouse, family, friends, charity)
3. The way I want (controlled in trust, uncontrolled, tax-efficient)
4. When I want (upon my death, upon a certain age or condition)
5. While saving every last dollar of taxes, attorney fees, and court costs
6. And, while preserving a low-stress life for me and relationships among those I love.

Everyone, of all ages and income levels, should create an estate plan. Whether you are young or old, there is a risk of incapacity or death at all times. Without a plan in place, your assets could be mismanaged and your money lost. Your children could end up being cared for by someone you would not have chosen for them, and the wrong person could end up making your healthcare choices. Your family could also find themselves in a difficult situation, fighting over assets or uncertain about what your wishes would have been for medical care.

No one likes to think about the possibility of an accident, illness, or injury causing them to become incapacitated or pass away – but the reality is that the end of life happens for everyone at some time. The most likely reason that family may fight after you're gone is because of uncertainty in your estate plan...usually because it's not in writing. Putting a good plan in place can eliminate needless litigation and relationship destruction among your heirs.

Estate planning can involve many aspects of your life from businesses to trusts to real estate. But, you can rest assured that the foundational instruments will be taken care of. We consider the following to be foundational:

1. Last Will & Testament
2. Living Will
3. Durable Power of Attorney
4. Medical Power of Attorney
5. HIPAA Release
6. Bodily Remains Representative

Epling Law is a trusted estate planning firm because of our experience, but also because of our compassion. We are members of the Estate Planning, Probate, and Trust Law Section of the Ohio State Bar Association. We also have a long history of satisfied clients who have benefited from our knowledgeable legal advice.

We understand that it can be difficult to think about illness and end of life issues, and we aim to make the estate planning process as simple, straightforward, and stress-free as possible. To learn more about how our Central Ohio attorneys can help you, call us at 614-876-7888 today!