Estate planning for every age

April 27, 2021

If you are an adult and you live in Ohio, you probably need an estate plan. An estate plan determines what will happen to your belongings, but it can also help make plans for you in case you become incapacitated. Some people may think they are too young to have an estate plan, but there are certain documents that are useful for everyone.

Planning for incapacity

Even if you are a college student with few possessions and mostly dependent on your parents, you may want to consider a health care proxy or medical power of attorney. This appoints your parents or anyone else you choose to make medical decisions on your behalf if you are unable to. A durable power of attorney does the same for your finances while a living will explains your wishes for end-of-life care.

Beneficiary designations and wills

If you have a retirement account through work or a life insurance policy, you have probably been given a beneficiary designation form. It is common for people to forget about these forms and let them fall out of date, so it is important to review them regularly along with the rest of your estate plan. You may also want a will even if it is only to pass on sentimental items. If you have minor children, you can use a will to name a guardian for them.

Trusts and long-term care

People who have more complex estates may want to consider a trust. A trust can help you control how and when your assets are distributed and may offer additional protection from creditors. As you get older, you may also want to think about whether you need to include a plan for long-term care as part of your overall estate plan.

Marriages, divorces, births and deaths may all be reasons to revise your estate plan. You should make it clear which version of your will is the latest. You might also want to discuss the estate plan with your family to some extent. Good communication can help reduce the likelihood of conflict or misunderstanding.

By Aj rlbllp.com November 17, 2025
Resolving Disputes Efficiently: How Mediation and Arbitration Benefit You Disputes, whether in business, family, or civil matters, can be stressful, time-consuming, and costly. At Roderick Linton Belfance, we proudly have a team of former judges who lead our mediation and arbitration group. We understand the importance of resolving conflicts efficiently and equitably. Increasingly, clients are turning to mediation and arbitration to settle legal matters. Our unique blend of judicial knowledge and practical legal insight positions us to guide clients through these processes, ensuring their interests are protected while saving time and resources. Why Choose Mediation and Arbitration? Traditional litigation is sometimes necessary, but it is not always the best path for every dispute. Court cases can drag on for months or even years, leading to mounting legal fees and emotional fatigue. Mediation and arbitration offer alternatives that are often more flexible, private, and expedient. At Roderick Linton Belfance, our three former judges bring a wealth of knowledge in this area. Their backgrounds presiding over a wide range of cases give them an unparalleled understanding of legal complexities and dispute dynamics. As mediators, they facilitate constructive dialogue, helping parties reach mutually agreeable solutions. As arbitrators, they apply their judicial expertise to deliver impartial decisions based on the facts and evidence presented. Clients benefit from our former judges as they are adept at identifying the core issues in a dispute, anticipating potential roadblocks, and encouraging productive negotiation. Their reputations for fairness and authority often foster trust and cooperation among all parties involved. Mediation: Collaboration Over Confrontation Mediation is a voluntary and confidential process where a neutral third party helps adverse parties find common ground. Unlike a judge or arbitrator, the mediator does not impose a solution; instead, they guide the conversation and help generate creative outcomes for settlement. Mediation can be especially effective in family law, employment disputes, and business disagreements, where preserving relationships is important. Arbitration: Efficient and Binding Decisions When parties need a binding resolution but wish to avoid the rigidity and publicity of court, arbitration offers a compelling alternative. In arbitration, an impartial arbitrator, often a former or retired judge, considers the evidence and arguments before rendering a decision. This process is typically faster and less formal than court litigation. Our former judges are frequently called upon as arbitrators due to their deep legal knowledge and reputation for impartiality. For clients, arbitration can mean a quicker, more predictable outcome with less disruption to their personal or business lives. At Roderick Linton Belfance, we are committed to helping clients resolve disputes cost-effectively, efficiently, and with dignity. Leveraging the wisdom of our three former judges, we tailor our strategies to each client’s unique situation. Whether through mediation, arbitration, or a combination of both, our goal is to secure the best possible outcome while reducing the stress and expense of traditional litigation. If you are facing a legal dispute, consider the advantages of mediation and arbitration. With the guidance of one of our attorneys and the insight of our former judges, you can move forward with confidence, knowing that your interests are in capable hands. Call us at 330-434-3000 today.
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