The Benefits of Having a Trusted Lawyer in Your Corner During a Lawsuit
Hoover Kacyon
May 9, 2025
After an accident, the stress can feel relentless—medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional strain of recovery all add up. During this time, having a personal injury attorney in your corner can make a significant difference.
Legal Expertise You Can Trust
Personal injury
law is complex. An experienced attorney understands how to navigate local laws, deadlines, and liability issues to protect your rights. Without that knowledge, you risk missing key opportunities to strengthen your case or file within the correct time frame.
Accurately Valuing Your Claim
Your injuries may impact you far beyond your current medical bills. An attorney knows how to evaluate your claim based on long-term needs like future treatments, loss of earning potential, and emotional suffering. This valuation ensures you’re not settling for less than you deserve.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible. A seasoned lawyer understands their tactics and negotiates on your behalf, significantly increasing your chances of securing a fair settlement.
Resources That Strengthen Your Case
Personal injury lawyers often work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and investigators to build strong, evidence-backed cases. These professionals help clarify what happened and why you deserve compensation.
Support Through Every Step
Handling legal paperwork, meeting deadlines, and communicating with insurers can be overwhelming, especially when you need to focus on healing. Your attorney takes on that burden, allowing you to focus on recovery. Plus, many work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case.
Get the Support You Deserve
At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we believe no one should face the aftermath of an accident alone. Our team is here to provide knowledgeable legal support, advocate for your best interests, and help you confidently move forward.
We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Call us at
330-922-4491 or
contact us online to make an appointment and find out how we can help you get the compensation you need—and the peace of mind you deserve.
Recent Posts
First off, congratulations on your engagement! As you dive into the exciting world of wedding planning—choosing the venue, tasting cake samples, and managing guest lists—it’s easy to focus on the celebration and overlook the legal and financial foundation of your future together. One important item that often gets left off the checklist is a prenuptial agreement. Why Consider a Prenuptial Agreement in Ohio? A prenuptial agreement , or “prenup,” is a legally binding contract made before marriage that outlines how to handle assets, debts, and financial matters in the event of divorce or death. In Ohio, prenups are enforceable if they are entered voluntarily, disclose all assets fully, and are fair when signing. Couples might consider a prenup to: Protect pre-marital assets or businesses Define responsibility for individual and joint debts Plan for future inheritances Outline spousal support expectations While you cannot include child custody or child support terms in a prenup under Ohio law (those decisions are always made in the child's best interest at the time of separation), you can make agreements about things like future education expenses or additional support. Starting the Conversation Bringing up a prenup doesn’t have to be awkward. Here are a few tips to make the conversation easier: Choose your timing wisely. Find a calm moment when you’re both open to discussing your future. Be transparent about your reasons. Framing the agreement as a mutual protection and clarity tool can go a long way. Engage your partner . This process should be a joint one, not a demand from one side. Stay focused on your relationship. Input from others is natural, but the agreement should reflect your shared values and goals. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and practical aspects of marriage planning. A prenup isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about entering your marriage with honesty, respect, and shared understanding. Ready to talk it through? Our family law attorneys are here to help you protect what matters most—now and in the future. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Passing away without a will—also known as dying intestate—means that the probate court will decide how to distribute your assets under Ohio’s intestate succession laws. While this process ensures your property eventually goes to family, it may not reflect your wishes. Understanding Intestacy in Ohio When someone dies intestate, the law determines their “heirs”—typically close relatives like a spouse, children, parents, or siblings. In Ohio, the distribution depends heavily on your family structure at death. If you’re married with children , your surviving spouse may inherit everything, but if you have children from a previous relationship, your estate could be divided between them. If you're unmarried , your children are first in line, followed by parents, siblings, and so on. Without any surviving relatives, your estate could eventually pass to the state. Not All Assets Go Through Probate It’s important to understand that not every asset is subject to probate , even if you die without a will. Assets with named beneficiaries, such as: Life insurance policies Retirement accounts (401(k)s, IRAs) Payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) accounts Property held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship These pass directly to the named person, bypassing probate entirely. That means even without a will, those designations can dictate where a portion of your estate goes. What About Real Estate in Other States? If you own property outside Ohio, that real estate will be distributed according to the laws of the state in which it is located, not Ohio’s. This detail can lead to additional complications and delays for your loved ones. Avoid the Guesswork—Create a Will Relying on state law to determine who receives your assets can result in unintended consequences. Cohabitating partners, stepchildren, or close friends are generally not considered legal heirs under Ohio law and could be left with nothing. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, our estate planning attorneys can help you draft a clear, legally valid will that ensures your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are protected. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—c all us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service.
The COVID-19 pandemic led many individuals to take action on their estate plans —either by creating a will for the first time or updating an existing one. This shift was a step in the right direction. Dying without a will, known as dying intestate, means that Ohio law will determine how to divide your assets, which can create unnecessary complications for your loved ones. However, even with a will in place, there’s another critical piece of the puzzle: your beneficiary designations . Beneficiary Designations Override Your Will Many people don’t realize that the beneficiaries named on certain accounts—like retirement plans, life insurance policies, bank accounts, and investment accounts— supersede what’s written in your will. This means that even if your will says one thing, these accounts will go to the person listed on the form, regardless of how long ago it was completed. That’s why it’s essential to regularly review and update your beneficiary designations, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a loved one. Even a change in address or name should prompt a review to ensure everything remains accurate and aligned with your intentions. Consider Charitable Beneficiaries In some cases, naming a nonprofit or charitable organization as a beneficiary can be a thoughtful and tax-efficient option. Because charities are tax-exempt, they can receive retirement assets without the income tax burden an individual might face. If you choose this route, be sure to list the organization's full legal name to avoid confusion. Keep Your Estate Plan Current Ultimately, you are responsible for updating your beneficiary designations. Make it a habit to revisit your estate plan—including these designations—every few years. If you need assistance or have questions, the estate planning attorneys at Hoover Kacyon, LLC are here to help guide you through the process with clarity and care. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Even the strongest marriages face challenges. When couples exchange vows, they do so with hope and commitment to a shared future. But sometimes, despite the best intentions, a marriage no longer serves both individuals—and the idea of divorce becomes a reality. If you’re contemplating filing for divorce in Ohio but are unsure whether now is the right time, it’s important to pause and reflect on a few key areas before taking the next step. Have You Explored All Options to Reconcile? Before proceeding with a divorce, consider whether you’ve truly done all you can to repair the relationship. Especially when children are involved, it’s crucial to try every avenue to preserve the family unit. Have you considered marriage counseling or dedicated time to open, honest communication? Are there reasonable compromises that could help resolve long-standing issues? Divorce is a significant legal and emotional step—ideally, one you take only after exploring all other options. How Will This Affect Your Children? When children are part of the picture, the divorce process becomes even more complex. As you think through your next steps, ask yourself: Are the children already aware of tensions at home? How might each child react to a separation? Can you and your spouse work together to develop a custody arrangement outside of court? Are you prepared to address child support or potential spousal support under Ohio law? Can you continue to share a home peacefully while working out the details? The more clarity you gain on these matters before filing, the smoother the process can be for everyone involved. Getting Legal Guidance Early Matters At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and legal complexities that come with divorce. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity, helping you protect your rights and prioritize your family’s well-being. If you're thinking about divorce, don’t navigate the decision alone. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
A divorce is a life-changing event that requires updating many aspects of your life—including your estate plan. If you fail to revise your will, trusts , and beneficiary designations after divorce, unintended beneficiaries, including your ex-spouse, could inherit your assets. Learn to navigate these important updates to ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes. Revising Your Will In Ohio, divorce automatically revokes any provisions in a will that benefit a former spouse. This detail means that if you had previously named your ex-spouse as a beneficiary or executor, they will now be treated as if they had predeceased you. However, this does not apply to other family members of your ex-spouse whom you may have included in your will. If you still wish to leave assets to your ex-spouse or make other changes, you must draft a new will that clearly states your intentions. Most wills include language that revokes prior versions, ensuring clarity in case of disputes. A new will also allows you to reassign executors and beneficiaries according to your updated preferences. Reviewing Trusts Trusts are common estate planning tools that also require careful review after divorce. If you have a revocable trust , Ohio law typically removes your ex-spouse as a beneficiary. However, irrevocable trusts do not change automatically—meaning your ex-spouse may still be entitled to benefits unless you restructure the trust. To avoid unintended outcomes, it is essential to review all trust agreements with an experienced estate planning attorney who can help modify or create new trusts as needed. Updating Beneficiary Designations Not all assets pass through a will or trust. Many financial accounts, including life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and payable-on-death (POD) bank accounts , are distributed based on beneficiary designations. A divorce does not automatically revoke these designations in Ohio, so if your ex-spouse remains listed, they could still receive those assets. To prevent this, update all beneficiary designations through your financial institutions, workplace benefits, and insurance providers. Naming a Legal Guardian for Minor Children If you have minor children, your estate plan should name a legal guardian in case something happens to you. While custody typically goes to the surviving parent, you should name a backup guardian in case your ex-spouse predeceases you or is deemed unfit. Working with an attorney ensures these plans align with Ohio law and your family's best interests. Take Action Today Failing to update your estate plan after divorce can lead to unintended consequences, including assets going to the wrong individuals or disputes among family members. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we guide residents of Akron, Fairlawn, and Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, through this process, ensuring their estate plan reflects their new circumstances and protects their loved ones. If you are recently divorced or in the process of divorcing, schedule a consultation with our estate planning team today. Let us help you secure your future with confidence. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Parents are often thrilled when their children marry, welcoming new family members with the hope of a lifelong union. However, as reality shows, marriages don’t always last. While you can’t shield your children from the emotional toll of divorce, you can take steps to ensure their inheritance remains protected. Including asset protection in your estate planning can prevent an ex-spouse from claiming part of your child’s inheritance in a divorce. How Ohio Law Treats Inheritance in Divorce Ohio follows an “equitable distribution” system, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not necessarily equally—during a divorce . While assets inherited by one spouse are generally considered separate property, they can easily become marital property if commingled. For instance, if your child inherits money and deposits it into a joint bank account with their spouse, it can lose its status as separate property. Similarly, if an inherited home is jointly improved or used as the couple’s residence, its increased value may be considered marital property. Once separate property becomes marital property, it typically cannot be reversed. Strategies to Protect an Inheritance from Divorce To safeguard your child’s inheritance, consider the following options: 1. Establishing a Trust A well-structured trust is one of the best ways to protect an inheritance. Two primary options exist: Revocable Trust – Allows flexibility while the grantor is alive, ensuring assets are managed and distributed according to predetermined terms. Since the trust, not the child, owns the assets, they are protected from becoming marital property. Irrevocable Trust – Provides stronger protection by preventing the assets from being reclaimed by the grantor. This step ensures the inheritance is shielded not only from divorce but also from creditors and legal claims. 2. Using a Limited Liability Company (LLC) For inheritances involving family businesses, farms, or valuable property, an LLC can be an effective tool. By structuring ownership through an LLC, assets remain separate and protected, preventing them from being subject to division in a divorce. Secure Your Family’s Future The unfortunate reality is that nearly half of marriages end in divorce. By taking proactive steps now, you can help ensure that your child’s inheritance remains protected for future generations. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney at Hoover Kacyon LLC can provide peace of mind and legal strategies tailored to your family's needs. Contact Hoover Kacyon LLC today to discuss safeguarding your child’s inheritance and securing your legacy. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Divorce can be a complex and stressful process for business owners who have dedicated time and effort to building their companies. The division of assets, spousal support, and financial impact can be overwhelming. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand these challenges and are here to help protect your interests and future. Is Your Business Marital Property? A key concern is whether a business is considered marital property. In Ohio, assets acquired during marriage are typically subject to equitable distribution. If you established your business before marriage, its original value may remain separate property. However, any increase in value during the marriage could be considered marital property, especially if marital funds or joint efforts contributed to its growth. Protecting Your Business During Divorce Here are strategies to safeguard your business: Control Business Growth – Consider slowing major expansions if divorce is imminent, as increased business value may be subject to division. Trust Legal Guidance – A skilled attorney can handle negotiations and protect your business assets while you focus on operations. Distinguish Separate vs. Marital Property – Keeping clear financial records can help clarify which portions of your business are separate property. Negotiate a Buyout – Instead of dividing ownership, offer an equalization payment as a lump sum or structured payment plan to retain full control. The Role of Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is one of the best ways to protect a business from future claims. Prenuptial Agreement – Created before marriage, it defines how to handle business assets in a divorce. Postnuptial Agreement – Established after marriage, it outlines asset division. However, courts may scrutinize postnups if you’re already considering divorce. Avoiding Litigation Litigation can be costly and expose business details to public records. Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or negotiation, can maintain privacy and lead to fair settlements. Negotiating a division of other marital assets—such as real estate or investments—may allow you to retain full business ownership without court intervention. How Hoover Kacyon, LLC Can Help At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the unique challenges business owners face during divorce. Our legal team specializes in asset protection, negotiations, and crafting agreements that safeguard business interests. If you are a business owner facing divorce, schedule a consultation with Hoover Kacyon, LLC today to protect your business, financial stability, and future. No matter how complicated your divorce might be, the Akron, Fairlawn, and Cuyahoga Falls Hoover Kaycon, LLC Attorneys at Law are here to answer your questions and help you through the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Starting a business is an exciting yet complex endeavor. While the financial aspects of entrepreneurship often take center stage, legal planning is just as crucial. Making informed legal decisions early on can help prevent complications and set the stage for long-term success. Whether you're launching a small startup or a growing enterprise, understanding the legal requirements for business formation is key. Choosing the Right Business Structure Selecting the appropriate business entity is one of the first and most important legal steps when starting a business. The options include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each structure comes with its advantages and responsibilities, including tax implications, liability protection, and operational flexibility. A knowledgeable business attorney can help assess your specific needs and guide you in choosing the right entity for your venture. Registering Your Business and Obtaining Licenses In Ohio, businesses must register with the Ohio Secretary of State . Additional licensing and permits may be required at the state or local level, depending on your industry and location. Ensuring compliance with registration and licensing laws from the start can help avoid legal setbacks down the road. Drafting Business Agreements A well-drafted business agreement is essential if you are starting a business with partners. A partnership agreement, operating agreement (for LLCs), or corporate bylaws should outline ownership rights, decision-making processes, profit distribution, and exit strategies. Clear agreements help prevent disputes and provide a framework for resolving conflicts efficiently. Hiring Employees and Employment Law Compliance Bringing employees into your business adds another layer of legal responsibility. You must decide whether to hire employees or engage independent contractors. Proper classification is critical to avoid penalties related to employment taxes and benefits. Additionally, businesses should consider employee handbooks, confidentiality agreements, and workplace policies to protect both the company and its workforce. Protecting Intellectual Property For many businesses, intellectual property (IP) is one of their most valuable assets.Trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets should be properly safeguarded to maintain competitive advantage. Legal agreements, such as non-disclosure and non-compete contracts, can further help protect proprietary information from misuse. Understanding Zoning and Environmental Regulations Certain industries must comply with zoning laws and environmental regulations. Local zoning laws dictate where businesses can operate, and environmental laws may impose restrictions on waste disposal, emissions, and land use. Ensuring compliance from the outset can prevent costly legal issues and operational disruptions. Securing Business Insurance Business insurance is another crucial component of risk management. Liability insurance, property coverage, and workers' compensation policies can help protect your business from financial losses due to lawsuits, accidents, or unexpected events. Consulting with an attorney can help determine the appropriate coverage for your business’s unique needs. Set Your Business Up for Success Starting a business involves numerous legal considerations that can impact your company’s future. At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we understand entrepreneurs' challenges and are here to provide expert legal guidance. Whether you need help with business formation, contract drafting, employment law, or risk management, our experienced attorneys can support you every step of the way. For personalized legal assistance in starting or growing your business, contact Hoover Kacyon LLC today.
Probate is the legal process of validating a will and ensuring that a deceased individual’s assets are distributed correctly. While some estates may bypass probate through careful planning, many must go through this procedure to settle debts and transfer assets. Given its complexity, executors (or personal representatives) can easily make mistakes that delay proceedings or create legal complications. Below are some common probate pitfalls and how to avoid them. Delaying the Probate Process Losing a loved one is an emotional time, and while grieving is natural, delaying the probate process can cause significant issues. Taxes and debts may accrue penalties and interest, creditors may initiate legal actions, and heirs could grow suspicious of delays. To prevent these problems, executors should familiarize themselves with probate requirements and timelines. For example, in Ohio, an estate inventory should generally be completed and filed within three months of the executor’s appointment. Acting promptly helps keep the process smooth and minimizes potential disputes. Poor Accounting and Record-Keeping Executors must maintain detailed records of all financial transactions related to the estate, including payments to creditors and distributions to heirs. Poor accounting can raise legal concerns and even lead to allegations of misconduct. To avoid complications: Keep a dedicated estate ledger separate from personal finances. Retain receipts and records of all transactions, no matter how small. Record each transaction individually instead of combining multiple payments into a single entry. Regularly review asset values, including stock statements and real estate assessments. Failing to Communicate with Beneficiaries Lack of communication can lead to frustration and suspicion among beneficiaries. Some may even suspect the executor of mishandling estate assets. Keeping beneficiaries informed fosters trust and transparency. Executors should: Provide regular updates via phone or email, even with no significant changes. Maintain records of all communications with beneficiaries. Address questions and concerns promptly. Seek legal assistance if communication becomes contentious. Distributing Assets Too Soon Beneficiaries may pressure the executor to distribute assets quickly, but doing so before settling all debts can create significant legal liability. Creditors generally have up to a year to file claims, and if an executor prematurely distributes funds, they may be held responsible for unpaid debts. To mitigate risks, executors should: Prioritize debt payments before distributions. Ensure all creditor claims are properly addressed before finalizing asset transfers. Consult an attorney to navigate complex estate matters. Not Seeking Legal Assistance Even seemingly straightforward estates can become complicated due to unexpected claims, tax considerations, or beneficiary disputes. Retaining an experienced probate attorney can help executors fulfill their duties correctly and avoid costly mistakes. A knowledgeable probate attorney provides guidance on legal requirements, ensures compliance with state laws, and helps resolve conflicts efficiently. If you’re serving as an executor and need assistance, the legal team at Hoover Kacyon LLC is here to help. Contact us today to navigate the probate process with confidence.
YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE
The COVID-19 pandemic led many individuals to take action on their estate plans —either by creating a will for the first time or updating an existing one. This shift was a step in the right direction. Dying without a will, known as dying intestate, means that Ohio law will determine how to divide your assets, which can create unnecessary complications for your loved ones. However, even with a will in place, there’s another critical piece of the puzzle: your beneficiary designations . Beneficiary Designations Override Your Will Many people don’t realize that the beneficiaries named on certain accounts—like retirement plans, life insurance policies, bank accounts, and investment accounts— supersede what’s written in your will. This means that even if your will says one thing, these accounts will go to the person listed on the form, regardless of how long ago it was completed. That’s why it’s essential to regularly review and update your beneficiary designations, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a loved one. Even a change in address or name should prompt a review to ensure everything remains accurate and aligned with your intentions. Consider Charitable Beneficiaries In some cases, naming a nonprofit or charitable organization as a beneficiary can be a thoughtful and tax-efficient option. Because charities are tax-exempt, they can receive retirement assets without the income tax burden an individual might face. If you choose this route, be sure to list the organization's full legal name to avoid confusion. Keep Your Estate Plan Current Ultimately, you are responsible for updating your beneficiary designations. Make it a habit to revisit your estate plan—including these designations—every few years. If you need assistance or have questions, the estate planning attorneys at Hoover Kacyon, LLC are here to help guide you through the process with clarity and care. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Even the strongest marriages face challenges. When couples exchange vows, they do so with hope and commitment to a shared future. But sometimes, despite the best intentions, a marriage no longer serves both individuals—and the idea of divorce becomes a reality. If you’re contemplating filing for divorce in Ohio but are unsure whether now is the right time, it’s important to pause and reflect on a few key areas before taking the next step. Have You Explored All Options to Reconcile? Before proceeding with a divorce, consider whether you’ve truly done all you can to repair the relationship. Especially when children are involved, it’s crucial to try every avenue to preserve the family unit. Have you considered marriage counseling or dedicated time to open, honest communication? Are there reasonable compromises that could help resolve long-standing issues? Divorce is a significant legal and emotional step—ideally, one you take only after exploring all other options. How Will This Affect Your Children? When children are part of the picture, the divorce process becomes even more complex. As you think through your next steps, ask yourself: Are the children already aware of tensions at home? How might each child react to a separation? Can you and your spouse work together to develop a custody arrangement outside of court? Are you prepared to address child support or potential spousal support under Ohio law? Can you continue to share a home peacefully while working out the details? The more clarity you gain on these matters before filing, the smoother the process can be for everyone involved. Getting Legal Guidance Early Matters At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and legal complexities that come with divorce. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity, helping you protect your rights and prioritize your family’s well-being. If you're thinking about divorce, don’t navigate the decision alone. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
A divorce is a life-changing event that requires updating many aspects of your life—including your estate plan. If you fail to revise your will, trusts , and beneficiary designations after divorce, unintended beneficiaries, including your ex-spouse, could inherit your assets. Learn to navigate these important updates to ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes. Revising Your Will In Ohio, divorce automatically revokes any provisions in a will that benefit a former spouse. This detail means that if you had previously named your ex-spouse as a beneficiary or executor, they will now be treated as if they had predeceased you. However, this does not apply to other family members of your ex-spouse whom you may have included in your will. If you still wish to leave assets to your ex-spouse or make other changes, you must draft a new will that clearly states your intentions. Most wills include language that revokes prior versions, ensuring clarity in case of disputes. A new will also allows you to reassign executors and beneficiaries according to your updated preferences. Reviewing Trusts Trusts are common estate planning tools that also require careful review after divorce. If you have a revocable trust , Ohio law typically removes your ex-spouse as a beneficiary. However, irrevocable trusts do not change automatically—meaning your ex-spouse may still be entitled to benefits unless you restructure the trust. To avoid unintended outcomes, it is essential to review all trust agreements with an experienced estate planning attorney who can help modify or create new trusts as needed. Updating Beneficiary Designations Not all assets pass through a will or trust. Many financial accounts, including life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and payable-on-death (POD) bank accounts , are distributed based on beneficiary designations. A divorce does not automatically revoke these designations in Ohio, so if your ex-spouse remains listed, they could still receive those assets. To prevent this, update all beneficiary designations through your financial institutions, workplace benefits, and insurance providers. Naming a Legal Guardian for Minor Children If you have minor children, your estate plan should name a legal guardian in case something happens to you. While custody typically goes to the surviving parent, you should name a backup guardian in case your ex-spouse predeceases you or is deemed unfit. Working with an attorney ensures these plans align with Ohio law and your family's best interests. Take Action Today Failing to update your estate plan after divorce can lead to unintended consequences, including assets going to the wrong individuals or disputes among family members. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we guide residents of Akron, Fairlawn, and Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, through this process, ensuring their estate plan reflects their new circumstances and protects their loved ones. If you are recently divorced or in the process of divorcing, schedule a consultation with our estate planning team today. Let us help you secure your future with confidence. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Parents are often thrilled when their children marry, welcoming new family members with the hope of a lifelong union. However, as reality shows, marriages don’t always last. While you can’t shield your children from the emotional toll of divorce, you can take steps to ensure their inheritance remains protected. Including asset protection in your estate planning can prevent an ex-spouse from claiming part of your child’s inheritance in a divorce. How Ohio Law Treats Inheritance in Divorce Ohio follows an “equitable distribution” system, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not necessarily equally—during a divorce . While assets inherited by one spouse are generally considered separate property, they can easily become marital property if commingled. For instance, if your child inherits money and deposits it into a joint bank account with their spouse, it can lose its status as separate property. Similarly, if an inherited home is jointly improved or used as the couple’s residence, its increased value may be considered marital property. Once separate property becomes marital property, it typically cannot be reversed. Strategies to Protect an Inheritance from Divorce To safeguard your child’s inheritance, consider the following options: 1. Establishing a Trust A well-structured trust is one of the best ways to protect an inheritance. Two primary options exist: Revocable Trust – Allows flexibility while the grantor is alive, ensuring assets are managed and distributed according to predetermined terms. Since the trust, not the child, owns the assets, they are protected from becoming marital property. Irrevocable Trust – Provides stronger protection by preventing the assets from being reclaimed by the grantor. This step ensures the inheritance is shielded not only from divorce but also from creditors and legal claims. 2. Using a Limited Liability Company (LLC) For inheritances involving family businesses, farms, or valuable property, an LLC can be an effective tool. By structuring ownership through an LLC, assets remain separate and protected, preventing them from being subject to division in a divorce. Secure Your Family’s Future The unfortunate reality is that nearly half of marriages end in divorce. By taking proactive steps now, you can help ensure that your child’s inheritance remains protected for future generations. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney at Hoover Kacyon LLC can provide peace of mind and legal strategies tailored to your family's needs. Contact Hoover Kacyon LLC today to discuss safeguarding your child’s inheritance and securing your legacy. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Divorce can be a complex and stressful process for business owners who have dedicated time and effort to building their companies. The division of assets, spousal support, and financial impact can be overwhelming. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand these challenges and are here to help protect your interests and future. Is Your Business Marital Property? A key concern is whether a business is considered marital property. In Ohio, assets acquired during marriage are typically subject to equitable distribution. If you established your business before marriage, its original value may remain separate property. However, any increase in value during the marriage could be considered marital property, especially if marital funds or joint efforts contributed to its growth. Protecting Your Business During Divorce Here are strategies to safeguard your business: Control Business Growth – Consider slowing major expansions if divorce is imminent, as increased business value may be subject to division. Trust Legal Guidance – A skilled attorney can handle negotiations and protect your business assets while you focus on operations. Distinguish Separate vs. Marital Property – Keeping clear financial records can help clarify which portions of your business are separate property. Negotiate a Buyout – Instead of dividing ownership, offer an equalization payment as a lump sum or structured payment plan to retain full control. The Role of Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements A prenuptial or postnuptial agreement is one of the best ways to protect a business from future claims. Prenuptial Agreement – Created before marriage, it defines how to handle business assets in a divorce. Postnuptial Agreement – Established after marriage, it outlines asset division. However, courts may scrutinize postnups if you’re already considering divorce. Avoiding Litigation Litigation can be costly and expose business details to public records. Alternative dispute resolution methods, such as mediation or negotiation, can maintain privacy and lead to fair settlements. Negotiating a division of other marital assets—such as real estate or investments—may allow you to retain full business ownership without court intervention. How Hoover Kacyon, LLC Can Help At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the unique challenges business owners face during divorce. Our legal team specializes in asset protection, negotiations, and crafting agreements that safeguard business interests. If you are a business owner facing divorce, schedule a consultation with Hoover Kacyon, LLC today to protect your business, financial stability, and future. No matter how complicated your divorce might be, the Akron, Fairlawn, and Cuyahoga Falls Hoover Kaycon, LLC Attorneys at Law are here to answer your questions and help you through the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.
Starting a business is an exciting yet complex endeavor. While the financial aspects of entrepreneurship often take center stage, legal planning is just as crucial. Making informed legal decisions early on can help prevent complications and set the stage for long-term success. Whether you're launching a small startup or a growing enterprise, understanding the legal requirements for business formation is key. Choosing the Right Business Structure Selecting the appropriate business entity is one of the first and most important legal steps when starting a business. The options include sole proprietorships, partnerships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations. Each structure comes with its advantages and responsibilities, including tax implications, liability protection, and operational flexibility. A knowledgeable business attorney can help assess your specific needs and guide you in choosing the right entity for your venture. Registering Your Business and Obtaining Licenses In Ohio, businesses must register with the Ohio Secretary of State . Additional licensing and permits may be required at the state or local level, depending on your industry and location. Ensuring compliance with registration and licensing laws from the start can help avoid legal setbacks down the road. Drafting Business Agreements A well-drafted business agreement is essential if you are starting a business with partners. A partnership agreement, operating agreement (for LLCs), or corporate bylaws should outline ownership rights, decision-making processes, profit distribution, and exit strategies. Clear agreements help prevent disputes and provide a framework for resolving conflicts efficiently. Hiring Employees and Employment Law Compliance Bringing employees into your business adds another layer of legal responsibility. You must decide whether to hire employees or engage independent contractors. Proper classification is critical to avoid penalties related to employment taxes and benefits. Additionally, businesses should consider employee handbooks, confidentiality agreements, and workplace policies to protect both the company and its workforce. Protecting Intellectual Property For many businesses, intellectual property (IP) is one of their most valuable assets.Trademarks, copyrights, patents, and trade secrets should be properly safeguarded to maintain competitive advantage. Legal agreements, such as non-disclosure and non-compete contracts, can further help protect proprietary information from misuse. Understanding Zoning and Environmental Regulations Certain industries must comply with zoning laws and environmental regulations. Local zoning laws dictate where businesses can operate, and environmental laws may impose restrictions on waste disposal, emissions, and land use. Ensuring compliance from the outset can prevent costly legal issues and operational disruptions. Securing Business Insurance Business insurance is another crucial component of risk management. Liability insurance, property coverage, and workers' compensation policies can help protect your business from financial losses due to lawsuits, accidents, or unexpected events. Consulting with an attorney can help determine the appropriate coverage for your business’s unique needs. Set Your Business Up for Success Starting a business involves numerous legal considerations that can impact your company’s future. At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we understand entrepreneurs' challenges and are here to provide expert legal guidance. Whether you need help with business formation, contract drafting, employment law, or risk management, our experienced attorneys can support you every step of the way. For personalized legal assistance in starting or growing your business, contact Hoover Kacyon LLC today.
