Estate Planning, Wills & Trusts, and Probate Law

Ziegler & Schneider’s attorneys are experienced in practicing in the probate courts of Northern Kentucky and Southern Ohio. Probate documents such as the Application for Administration and Appointment of Personal Representative, preparation of Inventories and Periodic and Final Accountings, inheritance tax returns, and federal and state tax returns are an integral and frequent part of their practice.

Probate is the name of the procedure for settling the affairs of a deceased person who dies with or without a will. The process involves resolving financial affairs, collecting assets, paying debts, and distributing the remaining assets according to the terms of the will or, when there is no will, according to the laws of the state where the deceased person resided at the time of his or her death. Ziegler & Schneider Estate Planning Attorneys can guide you through every step of the probate process. Under certain circumstances, a full probate procedure may not be necessary. We can help you determine if you qualify for the procedure known as Dispensing with Administration.

For many clients involved with family or closely held businesses, succession planning for these businesses, including minimizing transfer and death taxes, is the most important part of an effective estate plan. Ziegler & Schneider attorneys are experienced in assisting with the transfer of a business interest during life; as well as by Will or by Trust at death. Consultation regarding the preparation of documents such as stock redemption agreements, buy-sell agreements, non-compete agreements, deferred compensation and other retirement agreements are regularly provided by Ziegler & Schneider’s attorneys.

The development of a plan for one’s estate and retirement involves not only the preparation of Wills and Trusts (including Special Needs Trusts for disabled beneficiaries), Life Insurance Trusts, and Testamentary and Living Trusts, but also involves consultation and where necessary, preparation of documents pertaining to IRA’s, 401(K) plans, pensions, profit sharing plans, powers of attorney, health care powers of attorney, life insurance, long-term care contracts, and living wills.

Also known as a Healthcare Directive, Living Wills are an official document which sets forth your wishes regarding health measures. A Healthcare Power of Attorney allows you to designate someone as your healthcare agent to make medical decisions on your behalf, while a Durable Power of Attorney allows a person you designate to handle your affairs when you cannot. The Durable Power of Attorney document takes effect immediately and continues in full force and effect if you become incapacitate. It is revocable at any time if you are mentally capable, or upon your death.

Specialized trust for mentally and/or physically disabled beneficiaries