Questions answered by Elizabeth Smith Schmitz

Archived

After my father's death, I was told he had created a secret trust and appointed my sister trustee.

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on July 15, 2009

Under Ohio law if you are a beneficiary then you would be entitled to a copy of the trust and annual accountings.

Archived

My husband passed away, during the foreclosure process on our home. the house was in his name only. NOW WHAT?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on July 10, 2009

You should consult a probate attorney who can assist you with the probate aspects. Someone will need to be appointed executor to handle the...

Archived

What rights do children have in knowing their parents arrangements for their death such as a will, power of attorney, etc.?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on July 04, 2009

There is no legal requirement that a parent share information about their will or power of attorney. I always encourage my clients to talk to...

Archived

What happens to a deceased spoused bank account?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 30, 2009

It depends on the ownership of the account. If the account was held jointly with you then you can take his or her death certficate to the bank and...

Archived

Is my son responsible for my debts if I die?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 28, 2009

Your son would not be responsbile for the debt unless he cosigned on the debt. When someone passes away in Ohio creditors may file a claim against...

Archived

How do i stop my fathers second family from getting his property when he dies

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 26, 2009

It may be difficult for you to do anything if you have no contact with your father. What happens when he passes away depends on how his assets are...

Archived

How can I ensure my husband will care for my mother if I pre-decease him and her?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 25, 2009

I would suggest that you set up a trust. You can set aside a certain amount of money or property to care for your mother and then at her death it...

Archived

If an excuetrix is named in a notarized document is she entitled to a percentage and can she force the sale of property to get ?

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 17, 2009

In Ohio a valid will needs to be witnessed by two unrelated persons. If the document is only notarized it may not be valid. If the...

Archived

Is there a way to save my deceased mothers house

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 09, 2009

The answer to your question depends on many factors such as when the foreclosure was filed (before she died or after death). Is there a current...

Archived

Is there a way to save my deceased mothers house

Elizabeth's answer | Answered on June 09, 2009

The answer to your question depends on many factors such as when the foreclosure was filed (before she died or after death). Is there a current...

Elizabeth Smith Schmitz's Answers (421)

After my father's death, I was told he had created a secret trust and appointed my sister trustee.

My husband passed away, during the foreclosure process on our home. the house was in his name only. NOW WHAT?

What rights do children have in knowing their parents arrangements for their death such as a will, power of attorney, etc.?

What happens to a deceased spoused bank account?

Is my son responsible for my debts if I die?

How do i stop my fathers second family from getting his property when he dies

How can I ensure my husband will care for my mother if I pre-decease him and her?

If an excuetrix is named in a notarized document is she entitled to a percentage and can she force the sale of property to get ?

Is there a way to save my deceased mothers house

Is there a way to save my deceased mothers house