A COMMITMENT TO MEETING THE LEGAL NEEDS OF THE ELDERLY AND DISABLED AND THEIR FAMILIES

Probate Law

Probate, Estates, Guardianship, Conservatorship

The term “Probate” is most commonly understood as the 
formal legal process that gives recognition to the decedent’s 
Last Will and Testament. The Court approves the appointment of an executor or administrator who will be responsible to administer the estate and distribute 
assets to the intended beneficiaries. The Court oversees 
this process as required under Ohio law.

Acting as an executor or administrator can be one 
of the most important tasks you undertake for your family 
or friends. Good legal advice is necessary for you to understand 
your responsibilities and follow the procedures required to 
complete the estate in an efficient and cost effective manner 
without unnecessary delays.

Probate does include other procedures for many families, 
such as:

  • Probate of an estate where there is no Last Will and Testament (intestate).
  • Testamentary Trusts: serving as a trustee named in a Will on a continuing basis during the term of the trust.
  • Guardianship of an incompetent person who needs protection due to incapacity.
  • Conservatorship of a competent person who has physical incapacity.
  • Name Changes.
  • Adoptions.
  • Involuntary Commitments for substance abuse.
  • Settlement of Wrongful Death Claims, including asbestos claims.

Sue SA. Sokolowski has been certified by the Ohio State Bar Association as a specialist in Estate Planning, Trust and Probate Law.  Sandra Watkins Cleaver and Sue A. Sokolowski have many years 
of experience with the probate process and will provide timely and 
cost effective services to meet your individual needs. In addition, 
our compassionate and caring office staff is available to assist you 
during the difficult time after a death when assets must be 
identified, business affairs settled, debts paid, necessary tax 
returns filed, and the assets ultimately distributed as directed 
by the will or by law.

With the appropriate help and guidance of our office, you can 
do a good job, and have the comfort of knowing that you have 
served your loved ones well.