Practice Areas

Estate Planning

Last updated: June 2026

Protecting your family and preserving your legacy—with a plan built around your specific wishes and circumstances.

Overview

Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take for your family—yet it’s something many people put off until it’s too late. At McEndree Law, Jeffrey A. McEndree II works directly with Ohio families to develop estate plans that reflect their real wishes, protect their assets, and minimize confusion for the people they leave behind.

Whether you’re creating your first will, updating an existing plan after a major life change, or revisiting your documents following a significant life event, McEndree Law provides clear, practical guidance at every step. Jeffrey serves clients throughout Ohio, with particular focus on Wayne, Stark, Medina, and Summit counties. You’ll always work directly with Jeffrey—not a paralegal or a junior associate you’ve never met.

Services

  • Last Will & Testament
  • Revocable & Irrevocable Trusts
  • Durable Power of Attorney (Financial)
  • Healthcare Power of Attorney & Living Will
  • Beneficiary Designation Review
  • Trust Administration

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need an estate plan if I don't have significant assets?
Yes. Estate planning isn't only about wealth distribution—it's also about who makes decisions for you if you become incapacitated. A durable power of attorney and healthcare power of attorney are essential documents for any adult, regardless of asset level. Without them, a court may need to appoint a guardian or conservator if you can't speak for yourself. Even a simple will ensures your property goes to who you choose rather than following Ohio's intestacy statutes.
What's the difference between a will and a living trust in Ohio?
A will takes effect at death and is administered through the estate process. A revocable living trust takes effect immediately—you transfer assets into it during your lifetime and name a successor trustee to manage and distribute those assets at your death or incapacity. A trust can allow assets to pass to beneficiaries without estate administration, which can save time and reduce costs. Whether a trust makes sense for your situation depends on the type and value of your assets and your planning goals.
What happens if I die without a will in Ohio?
Your estate passes under Ohio's intestacy statutes, which allocate your property based on family relationships—not your wishes. For example, if you're married with children from a prior relationship, Ohio law divides your estate among your spouse and those children in a way that may not match what you intended. Intestacy also cannot account for charities, friends, or others outside the statutory family tree you might have wanted to benefit.
What is a durable power of attorney and do I need one?
A durable power of attorney designates someone—called your agent—to manage your financial affairs on your behalf. "Durable" means the authority continues even if you become incapacitated. Without one, if you lose the ability to manage your affairs, a court proceeding may be required to appoint someone to act for you. This can be time-consuming and expensive. A properly drafted durable power of attorney avoids that outcome and puts you in control of who acts for you.
How often should I update my estate plan?
Review your estate plan every three to five years, and immediately after major life events: marriage, divorce, the birth of a child or grandchild, the death of a named beneficiary or executor, a significant change in your assets, or a move to a new state. An outdated plan can produce unintended results that are difficult or impossible to correct after the fact.

Ready to Put a Plan in Place?

Estate planning doesn’t have to be complicated. Schedule a consultation with Jeffrey to discuss your goals and get started.

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Estate Planning Attorney | McEndree Law LLC