Wills Serving Columbus and Central Ohio Since 1977

Columbus Wills Lawyers

We know that thinking about mortality isn’t something any of us particularly enjoy doing. But taking the time to consider one's legacy and seeking counsel from a Columbus wills lawyer can provide assurance that a person's desires for asset distribution and other issues are legally safeguarded.

Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe has been serving the people of Franklin County since 1977. Over that time, we’ve seen a lot of issues arise in probate litigation after a client’s death. That means we can draw on all that experience to help our clients draft wills that can minimize, and hopefully eliminate, any confusion after death.

Call our office at (614) 665-5833 or reach out online to set up a consultation.

Why Having a Will Is Important

There are several benefits to putting one’s last wishes into a legally binding document, including the following:

Ensure Heirs Avoid Intestacy

The intestacy process is what the state of Ohio turns to in the absence of a will. Intestacy is a predetermined formula that decides who inherits what. The formula is very rigid, as any law that will apply to everyone in the Buckeye State has to be. And it does ensure that spouses and children get an inheritance. But in addition to the extensive time that intestacy can take, there are other problems.

Many people have desires to leave an inheritance to people or institutions that may be beyond their immediate family circle. Godchildren are a common example, as are nieces and nephews. People might want to earmark an inheritance for a specific purpose—like paying for a grandchild’s college education. Or they might want to leave money for a favorite charity. Intestacy does not cover any of this.

Ultimately, intestacy can’t account for the uniqueness that is every human life. It takes a last will and testament to do that.

Local Guidance in Franklin County Wills Amendment

Living in Franklin County, we understand the unique challenges and concerns that our community faces when it comes to estate planning and wills amendment. The local government entities, such as the Franklin County Probate Court, play a significant role in the administration of estates, and navigating their processes can be daunting without proper guidance.

One common pain point for residents in Columbus and surrounding areas is the frequent changes in family dynamics and financial situations. Whether it's welcoming a new family member, experiencing a significant change in assets, or simply wanting to update your beneficiaries, amending your will is crucial to ensure it reflects your current wishes. Our team at Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe is well-versed in the local legal landscape and can help you make these important updates efficiently.

We also recognize that many in our community have specific desires for their legacy, such as supporting local charities or ensuring that non-immediate family members are included in their estate plans. The rigid intestacy laws in Ohio do not accommodate these personal wishes, making it essential to have a well-drafted and regularly updated will.

By working with a Columbus wills lawyer, you can ensure that your will is not only legally sound but also tailored to your unique circumstances and the specific needs of your loved ones. Our deep understanding of Franklin County's legal environment allows us to provide personalized advice and support, helping you navigate the complexities of wills amendment with confidence.

Local Will Drafting Guidance in Columbus

Living in Columbus, we understand the unique challenges and concerns our community faces regarding estate planning and will creation.

A common concern for residents in Columbus and surrounding areas is ensuring their wills accurately reflect their wishes, especially amid changing family dynamics and financial situations. Whether it's welcoming a new family member, experiencing a significant change in assets, or designating beneficiaries, creating a comprehensive will is crucial for clarity and peace of mind. Our team at Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe is well-versed in the local legal landscape and can help you draft a will that meets your specific needs efficiently.

Helping You Honor Your Legacy & Support Your Loved Ones

We understand that many individuals in our community have specific wishes for their legacy, including supporting local charities or including non-immediate family members in their estate plans. Our team can help you fulfill these wishes by creating a well-drafted, personalized will tailored to your needs.

By working with a Columbus wills lawyer, you can rest assured your will is legally sound and tailored to your unique circumstances and the specific needs of your loved ones. Our deep understanding of Columbus's legal environment allows us to provide personalized advice and support, helping you navigate the complexities of will creation with confidence.

Commonly Asked Questions

What are the benefits of creating a will with a Columbus wills lawyer?

Creating a will with a Columbus wills lawyer ensures that your last wishes are legally recognized and clearly articulated, providing peace of mind that your assets will be distributed according to your desires. A lawyer can help you navigate complex legal requirements, offer advice on how to minimize potential probate litigation, and ensure that your will reflects your unique circumstances and intentions. This personalized legal guidance is invaluable in safeguarding your legacy and protecting your loved ones from the rigidity and limitations of intestacy laws in Ohio.

How can Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe help with my wills amendment needs in Franklin County?

With decades of experience since 1977, Kemp, Schaeffer & Rowe can draw upon their extensive knowledge of probate litigation and estate planning to help you with wills amendment needs. They understand the intricacies of Ohio law and can provide tailored advice to ensure your will accurately reflects any changes in your life, such as new heirs or changes in asset distribution, thereby minimizing confusion and disputes after your passing.

What issues can arise from not having a will in Columbus, Ohio?

Without a will in Columbus, Ohio, your estate will be subject to intestacy laws, which may not align with your personal wishes for asset distribution. This can lead to a lengthy and impersonal process where the state determines who inherits your assets, potentially excluding important individuals or organizations you intended to benefit. Additionally, the absence of a will can result in family disputes and increased legal costs, making it crucial to have a will to clearly outline your intentions.

Why is it important to have a legally binding will in the state of Ohio?

Having a legally binding will in Ohio is crucial because it ensures that your estate is distributed according to your specific wishes rather than the state's intestacy laws. A will provides clear instructions on who should inherit your assets, how they should be managed, and can also include guardianship designations for minor children. This legal document can prevent misunderstandings, reduce the likelihood of disputes among heirs, and expedite the probate process, ultimately protecting your legacy and providing certainty for your loved ones.

Five-Star Client Testimonials

In Their Own Words

At KSR Legal, we prioritize your experience, and it shows. Read some of our client reviews below, or call us at (614) 665-5833 to get started.

"The Best Family Law Attorney!"
Matthew is very professional & knowledgeable. He has helped me in many ways with obtaining shared parenting with my child. He is very professional with time management of deadlines in all cases and really is a overall great attorney to hire for all fam

- Former Client
"Highly Recommended!"
We couldn't be more thankful. Steven definitely made the process very easy and as stress-free as possible.

- Maria J.
"Fantastic Experience!"
Steve is great and willing to help in any way he can!! Suzette doesn't skip a beat, and keeps it all on track!!!

- Heather L.
"Top-Notch Service!"
KSR is amazing and they are my go-to lawyers!

- Don B.
"A Great Experience"
I was very pleased with Mr. Yarmesch, He stayed in contact with me, and returned my phone calls and emails promptly. Most importantly he negotiated a satisfactory outcome.

- Former Client

More Reviews

The Joy of Sharing

Although considering one's mortality may seem gloomy, reflecting on how to distribute accumulated assets can bring genuine happiness. It could be the chance to pass down a cherished family heirloom to someone who would treasure it. Thinking about who might enjoy each specific asset a person has acquired in their life can bring real joy.

At KSR, our experienced Columbus wills attorneys help clients establish clear intentions for how they want to distribute their hard-earned assets.

The Hard Decisions

While it's unfortunate, people do experience strained relationships with family members. Determining who will be excluded or receive a reduced inheritance may not be a pleasurable aspect of legacy planning. However, it does allow for the redirection of inheritance assets to those deemed most deserving by the client.

Protecting Minor Children

The will can serve as a means for parents with minor children to designate a guardian in the event of a tragedy. Failing to address this critical consideration in a will may result in the temporary placement of children in the foster care system while the courts determine the appropriate guardian. The ultimate decision of the courts may not align with the preferences of the parents. To avoid this outcome, it is essential to clearly express guardianship wishes in a last will and testament.

Choose Your Executor

Administering a will is not a simple task. This probate process involves locating beneficiaries, settling debts, and distributing inheritances. Such a responsibility can be a challenging burden, especially for someone close to the deceased who is also coping with grief. By drafting a will, a client can select an executor who is trustworthy, competent, and professional. This opportunity allows the client to alleviate the burden on immediate family members during a time of sadness.Let Our Columbus Wills Lawyers Help

With over 45 years of experience, the team at KSR understands what issues to bring up in the drafting of a will and how to make sure the client’s desires are properly expressed in a legal document.

Contact us by calling the office at (614) 665-5833 or by filling out our online contact form to schedule a consultation.

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