Clarity is Key to Planning

July 19, 2019 by Michael O'Brien

Clarity is essential in an estate plan. This article examines the case of Tom Petty, what he did right and what he did wrong. It shows that clarity can avoid problems later.

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Michael O'Brien

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Michael has a comprehensive knowledge of estate palnning needs and trust issues. I trust his guidance and counsel completely.

Jim Client Review September 8, 2020

The topic of gay marriage has been very much in the news over the last few years. A small handful of states are currently recognizing these unions, but in most states (including Ohio) same-sex couples cannot get legally married. Estate planning is important for everyone regardless of your sexual persuasion or marital status. However, it is absolutely essential for gay couples because of the fact that there are no built-in protections. While it is not advisable for a married couple to go through life without an estate plan your spouse would in fact be first in line to inherit any resources that you left behind via intestacy laws of succession. Similarly, your husband or wife would be the individual that doctors would approach about medical decisions if you were to become incapacitated. On the other hand, gay people who are in long-term committed partnerships have no such protections. And, even if you were legally married as a gay individual laws are always subject to change as we saw in the state of California. The wise course of action is to simply take matters into your own hands and elucidate your wishes via the execution of legally binding documents. At the very least you should have some type of vehicle of asset transfer in place along with advance directives for healthcare stating your preference with regard to medical procedures. If you are currently going through life without an estate plan, right now would be a good time to take action and arrange for a consultation with a licensed and experienced Cleveland OH estate planning lawyer who is sensitive to the needs of same-sex couples.

Tom Client Revew September 8, 2020

Personal, professional service and follow up. Did what he said he would do at the agreed price.

Paul Client Review September 8, 2020

Michael and his team work very closely with you to help build a strategy for you regarding estate planning. They do not overdo it. They work hard to be certain their suggestions/recommendations fit your needs. Michael asks great questions, listens well and delivers on his commitments. I was very appreciative and hugely satisfied.

Anonymous Client Review September 8, 2020

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