Estate Planning

Thoughtful planning to protect the people and assets you care about most

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Plan ahead with clarity and confidence

Practical estate planning for Belmont County families

Estate planning is about more than documents—it is about protecting your loved ones and reducing uncertainty during difficult moments. A well-designed plan can help your family avoid confusion, minimize conflict, and carry out your wishes clearly under Ohio law. At Conaway and Shaw at Law, we guide individuals and families in St. Clairsville and throughout Belmont County through wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianship planning, and probate preparation. We take time to explain your options in plain language so you understand what each document does and why it matters. Whether you are creating your first plan or updating an existing one, we focus on making the process straightforward and personal.

What we help with

Estate planning services tailored to your needs

Every family’s situation is different, and your estate plan should reflect your goals, assets, and responsibilities. Below are the core services we provide to help you plan with confidence.

Wills

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A will allows you to direct how your property is distributed and name guardians for minor children. We draft clear, legally sound wills that reflect your wishes and comply with Ohio requirements.

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Trusts

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Trusts can help manage assets during your lifetime and distribute them efficiently after death. We explain when a trust may be appropriate and design documents that align with your financial and family goals.

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Powers of Attorney and Guardianship Planning

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These documents allow someone you trust to handle financial or medical decisions if you become incapacitated. We help ensure the right authority is granted and clearly defined under Ohio law.

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Probate Planning and Guidance

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Thoughtful planning can reduce complications for your family during probate. We help structure your estate plan with probate considerations in mind and provide guidance if your loved ones later need assistance navigating the process.

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Frequently asked questions

Common estate planning questions in Ohio

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  • Do I need a will if I have a trust?

    In many cases, yes. Even if you have a trust, a will can address assets not transferred into the trust and name guardians for minor children. A coordinated plan ensures all parts work together under Ohio law. During a consultation, we can review whether both documents are appropriate for your situation.

  • What happens if I die without a will in Ohio?

    If you pass away without a will, Ohio’s intestacy laws determine how your property is distributed. The court will follow a statutory order of heirs, which may not reflect your personal preferences. This can also create additional steps and stress for family members. Creating a clear estate plan helps avoid that uncertainty.

  • What documents help if I become incapacitated?

    Financial and healthcare powers of attorney are key documents in incapacity planning. These allow a trusted person to make decisions or manage affairs if you cannot do so yourself. Without them, loved ones may need to seek court involvement to act on your behalf. Proper planning helps avoid unnecessary delays and confusion.

  • How often should I update my estate plan?

    It is wise to review your estate plan after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or significant financial changes. Laws and personal circumstances can shift over time. Regular reviews ensure your documents still reflect your wishes and comply with current Ohio law. Even small updates can make a meaningful difference.

  • How does divorce affect my estate plan?

    Divorce can significantly impact beneficiary designations, fiduciary appointments, and distribution plans. It is important to review and update your estate documents after a divorce to ensure they reflect your new circumstances. While certain provisions may be automatically revoked under Ohio law, others may not be. We can help coordinate updates with your broader family law matters when needed.