Wrongful Death

An estate is something that encompasses the economic valuation of all the investments, assets, and interests of an individual. The estate can include a person’s belongings, both physical and intangible, as well as land and real estate, investments, collectibles, and furnishings. Any wrongful death claim would also be considered an asset for the estate. The executor of the estate is usually the person named in the will, and usually, courts will appoint this person. In some cases, the loved one did not name anyone in their will to be the executor of their estate, or the person named refuses or is otherwise unable to act, then the probate court will appoint someone to act as an administrator. 

The next of kin in Ohio generally means a person’s nearest relatives. Not all kin or relatives are “next of kin.” Generally, the relatives nearest to the decedent are next of kin and can include surviving spouse, descendants, parents, siblings, descendants of siblings, grandparents, and aunts/uncles.