Frequently Asked Questions About Estate Planning & Probate

At Epling Law, we focus exclusively on estate planning, probate, and guardianship for families throughout Central Ohio. Below are answers to the questions we hear most often from clients during their free consultation. 

Estate planning is easier than most people expect — especially when you work with an attorney who guides you through each step. We don’t normally require financial statements or a balance sheet because a well‑designed estate plan doesn’t have to be complicated or overwhelming. During your free consultation, we explain your options in plain language, help you choose the documents that fit your goals, and prepare everything for you.

Most clients complete their entire estate‑planning package within weeks, and we handle all the drafting, revisions, and signing details. With the right guidance, estate planning becomes a straightforward process that gives you clarity, control, and peace of mind.

The vast majority of our clients tell us the process was far easier than they anticipated — and that they wish they had done it sooner.

 Every family’s needs are different, so we tailor our estate‑planning recommendations after a detailed conversation about your goals, assets, and family dynamics. During your free consultation, we:

• Review your situation
• Present several planning options
• Explain the pros and cons of each
• Provide clear pricing and installment options

Our goal is to help you choose a plan that fits your needs and your budget.

Most clients receive their first drafts within 30 days of hiring us. From there, you can take as much time as you need to review, revise, and meet with us. We never limit meetings or charge for changes to drafts.

On average, clients sign their complete estate‑planning package within 6–8 weeks, though we can expedite the process for upcoming surgeries, travel, or urgent situations.

 Probate costs vary depending on:

• The complexity of the estate
• Whether family members cooperate
• The number and type of assets
• Whether disputes arise

Most full administrations we handle are completed at a reasonable cost (often under $4,000). Ohio also offers simplified procedures for smaller estates, which can reduce time and expense.

Our priority is to complete the estate efficiently while honoring your loved one’s intent and protecting our client.

Adult guardianship is a court process used when an individual can no longer make safe medical or financial decisions and did not complete advance planning. A prospective guardian petitions the probate court for authority to make decisions regarding:

• Medical care
• Living arrangements
• Finances (if needed)

We guide families through every step of the guardianship process, from filing the application to attending hearings.

Most Ohio residents can avoid probate by using:

• Transfer‑on‑death (TOD) designations
• Pay‑on‑death (POD) designations
• Joint ownership
• Revocable living trusts

During your free consultation, we’ll review your assets and show you the most effective way to keep your estate out of probate.

 Yes. You can update your will at any time by signing:

• A codicil (amendment), or
• A new will

Nearly all documents we prepare for clients can be revised as life changes.

Yes, you may appoint co‑agents under a Power of Attorney or co‑executors in your will. 

However, this can create logistical challenges, such as:

• Delays when both signatures are required
• Disagreements between co‑decision‑makers

We’ll help you evaluate whether co‑fiduciaries are the right choice for your situation.

Yes. Ohio law does not require you to use a realtor or title agency. However, depending on the transaction, professional assistance may:

• Reduce risk
• Simplify paperwork
• Prevent costly mistakes

We offer a complimentary 15‑minute call to discuss your options.

Forming an LLC in Ohio is fast — the effective date is the day the filing is submitted. In many cases, we can establish your LLC the same day you contact us.