Probate
Probate Attorneys Serving Akron and Northeast Ohio
Serving Akron, Canton, Summit County, Portage and Medina, Ohio.
Losing a loved one is never easy. In the midst of grief, you may also face the difficult task of settling their affairs. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we’re here to help you move through the probate process with clarity, compassion, and the legal guidance you need to stay focused and supported. Our goal is to ease the weight on your shoulders and help you complete the process as quickly and peacefully as possible.
Understanding Probate Process
Probate is the legal process used to settle a person’s estate after their passing. It involves verifying the will, appointing an executor or administrator, resolving debts, preparing inventories, and distributing property. These steps can feel overwhelming when you're already navigating a personal loss.

We work with families to make this process manageable, respectful, and efficient. If you have questions about what your loved one owned or how their assets were handled, we’ll help you understand the full picture. From clarifying what should be included in the estate to resolving any inconsistencies, we are here to help you find both answers and peace of mind.
Preparing to Open an Estate in Ohio
Getting started with probate doesn’t have to be confusing. We help you gather what’s needed, complete all required forms, and understand each step along the way. If you’ve been named as executor or are stepping in without a will, we’ll support you from day one.
To begin, you’ll need:
- A certified copy of the death certificate
- The original Last Will and Testament, if available
- A list of known assets, debts, and property
- Names and contact information for heirs or beneficiaries
- Account information, deeds, or titles to property
- Any prior estate planning documents
We’ll organize what you have and prepare the rest. Whether you feel fully ready or completely overwhelmed, we’ll meet you where you are and guide you forward with care.
Estate and Probate
Experienced Lawyers in Family Law, Divorce, Adoption, Estate Planning, Probate, Criminal, Traffic, Bankruptcy, Business, Personal Injury, Civil and Education Law.
What We Can Do for You
Our focus is clear. When something goes wrong in the probate process, we step in to help make it right. If the court’s decision doesn’t reflect the law or your loved one’s intentions, we take swift, thoughtful action. With trusted legal guidance and steady support, we work to correct mistakes and help bring the process back on track.
File the Application and Court Documents
We prepare and file the Application for Authority to Administer the Estate and all related forms required by the probate court, ensuring you are legally appointed and fully supported in managing the estate.
Complete the Inventory and Appraisal
We help gather account statements, titles, and valuations to complete the Inventory and Appraisal. This filing confirms the estate’s assets and creates a record for accurate tracking and distribution.
Manage Legal Notices and Creditor Claims
We publish required legal notices, track deadlines, and respond to creditor claims. We assess each debt, negotiate when possible, and ensure the estate only pays what is valid and legally required.
Prepare and File the Final Account
When the estate is ready to close, we draft the Final Account or Certificate of Termination and file it with supporting receipts. This step allows the court to release you from further responsibility.
Resolve Disputes and Protect Your Role
If disagreements arise, we file responses, clarify ambiguous terms, and appear in court if needed. Whether dealing with unclear documents or heir conflicts, we protect your role as fiduciary throughout.
When to Call a Probate Attorney
If you are managing a loved one’s affairs or unsure where to begin after their passing, you do not need to face probate alone. The earlier you reach out, the sooner we can help ease the burden and guide you through each legal step with compassion.
Our attorneys are ready to step in, provide guidance, and protect your legal standing from day one.
Tell Us About You And Your Situation
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Frequently Asked Questions
What if there is no will?
When someone passes away without a will, Ohio law determines who inherits. We help you file for appointment as administrator and complete the necessary steps to settle the estate legally and fairly.
How long does the probate process take?
Most estates are resolved in six to twelve months. We help keep things moving by filing accurate documents, meeting deadlines, and staying ahead of any issues that could delay closure.
Can we avoid probate completely?
In some cases, yes. If the estate qualifies as a small estate or all assets are already assigned to beneficiaries, full probate may not be required. We evaluate your situation and recommend the right path.
Why is the Inventory so important?
The Inventory shows the court what the estate owns and how much it is worth. It must be submitted on time and in full. We make sure this step is done right to avoid questions or delays later on.
What if someone challenges the will or files a claim?
Disputes and creditor claims can slow the process. We step in to protect your role, explain your legal options, and work toward resolution with the court and all involved.
