Estate Planning Services in Cincinnati, OH

Welcome to Keller Barrett & Higgins, where Ellen Keller has over 20 years of experience to the table to assist you in securing the future of your loved ones through comprehensive estate planning services. Whether you're contemplating drafting a will, establishing trusts, or safeguarding your healthcare directives, our dedicated team is here to guide you through every step of the process.

Crafting Your Legacy

Your estate plan serves as a roadmap for the distribution of your assets and the protection of your family's interests. Ellen and Whitney understand the importance of tailoring your estate plan to reflect your unique circumstances and priorities. With personalized attention, we'll work closely with you to draft the essential documents that comprise a solid foundation for your estate plan:

     Wills: Designate how your assets will be distributed and appoint guardians for minor children.

     Trusts: Explore various trust options, including revocable living trusts, to minimize tax liabilities and avoid probate.

     Healthcare Directives: Ensure your medical wishes are respected with healthcare power of attorney and living will documents.

     Power of Attorney: Appoint trusted individuals to make financial and legal decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.

Beyond the Basics

We recognize that estate planning goes beyond the basics. Ellen's experience in Special Needs Trusts allows us to address the unique needs of individuals with disabilities, ensuring their long-term financial security without jeopardizing eligibility for government benefits. Whether it's navigating Medicaid waivers or establishing Ohio's STABLE accounts, we're committed to safeguarding the futures of all family members, regardless of their circumstances.

Your Partner in Planning

At Keller, Barrett & Higgins, we understand that estate planning is a deeply personal and sometimes complex endeavor. That's why we prioritize building strong client relationships based on trust, transparency, and open communication. During your initial consultation, Ellen and Whitney will take the time to understand your goals, concerns, and family dynamics before providing tailored recommendations that align with your objectives.

Schedule Your Consultation

Take the first step toward peace of mind by contacting Ellen Keller or Whitney Ellison to schedule your estate planning consultation today. Let us help you create a comprehensive estate plan that safeguards your legacy and provides for the well-being of your loved ones for years to come. Call 513-351-6058 today!

Quick Facts

What is a Will?

‍A Will is a document that provides clear directions for how a person would like his or her assets to be distributed upon death. To be valid a will must conform to applicable state law and meet certain requirements. In Ohio, a Will is the only document that is used to name a Guardian for your children.

‍What is a Trust?

‍There are many types of trusts. But the one most commonly involved in estate planning is the Revocable Living Trust. "Revocable" means it can be amended and revoked. "Living" means it is created, and often funded, during the lifetime of the grantor (person creating the trust). We like to use Revocable Living Trusts to avoid Probate, to hold assets for minor or irresponsible beneficiaries. Revocable Living Trusts, like a Will, contain directions for holding and administering assets after death. Unlike a Will, trusts are private documents that do not need to be filed with the Probate Court.

What Is Estate Planning?

Estate planning is a crucial process involving the creation and execution of various legal documents to dictate the distribution of your assets and address potential incapacitation scenarios. In Cincinnati, Ohio, Keller, Barrett & Higgins specializes in comprehensive estate planning, including the unique expertise of Ellen in Special Needs Trusts and Healthcare Directives.

Key components of an estate plan typically encompass four essential documents:

1. Living Will: A living will outlines your end-of-life decisions, encompassing preferences regarding ongoing treatment and life support. This document spares your family from challenging decisions during difficult times.
2. Power of Attorney (Health Care and Financial): A Health Care and Financial Power of Attorney designates an individual to manage your health and financial affairs in the event of medical incapacitation. This legal authority ensures that your chosen representative can make crucial decisions on your behalf.
3. Last Will and Testament: Your last will and testament delineates the distribution of assets to beneficiaries and addresses the repayment of existing liabilities (such as debts) after your passing. Additionally, this document allows you to appoint a guardian for your minor children.
4. Trust: A trust is a versatile tool in estate planning. While it may not cover all aspects handled by a will, a trust can bypass probate, manage funds for young beneficiaries, and cater to specific needs such as those of a family member with special needs. Ellen's specialization in Special Needs Trusts makes this an integral aspect of the firm's estate planning services.

It's important to note that each document within the estate plan must adhere to distinct legal requirements, such as the presence of witnesses during signing, to be legally binding. For a seamless and legally sound estate plan tailored to your individual needs, we recommend consulting with the experienced estate planning lawyers at Keller, Barrett & Higgins in Cincinnati.

     + Whitney Ellison offers over 15 years of experience and Ellen Keller has 20+ years of experience in business law.

     + We prioritize personalized solutions tailored to each client's unique business needs.

     + Our firm is committed to delivering high-quality legal services with a focus on achieving optimal outcomes.

Ready to empower your business with expert legal guidance? Contact Keller, Barrett & Higgins today to schedule a consultation with our experienced attorneys.

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