When an Ohio resident dies owning probate property, a legal proceeding is begun (1) to determine the validity of the Last Will and Testament of the decedent, if any, (2) to determine the nature, extent and value of the decedent’s assets, (3) to establish the valid debts of the decedent and (4) to establish the method of distribution of the assets to the heirs or beneficiaries of the decedent after payment of applicable debts, taxes and expenses. This proceeding is known as probate.

Compared to probate, there are many differences but also some similarities in the manner in which property is administered in a “living trust” following the death of a grantor. Among the characteristics of administration of a “living trust” that a person may find desirable are:

What are some of the disadvantages of a living trust compare to probate?