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FAQs

Explore answers to the most common questions about our services and our practice areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Working With Rhodium Law

Rhodium Law is a Cleveland-based estate planning and elder law firm that serves clients throughout the State of Ohio.

To begin, we ask that you either give us a call or fill out our contact form.  After that, we'll reach out to you via e-mail to thank you for contacting us, and we'll also provide a link to our scheduling tool so that you can schedule your initial free consultation call.  During this call, we'll introduce ourselves, ask some high-level questions about your goals, and confirm if we may able to provide assistance to you with your matter.

Our services are always tailored to meet the specific needs of our clients.  We offer potential clients a range of service packages, and then our clients choose the package which best fits their needs and budget. 

After we've confirmed that Rhodium Law may be able to assist you with your matter, we will e-mail you an intake form that is applicable to your situation. The intake form functions to securely collect basic information about you so that we can make productive use of our time during the first meeting. 

After the initial free phone consultation and after our first meeting, you will become a client if you choose to select Rhodium Law to handle your matter and sign a client engagement letter.  The client engagement letter will spell out the scope of the representation, as well as the fees for the representation.  Please be reminded that no attorney-client relationship exists, or should be implied, until you sign the engagement letter.

Unfortunately, the answer varies depending on the nature of the representation being provided.  For estate planning clients, we strive to draft your estate plan within approximately 4 weeks.  This is because we tailor all of our work product to your specific needs and involve multiple sets of eyes with the review of your documents.  We are all about adding value to your investment in legal services, and it takes some time to draft well.

We have invested in a technology stack that allows you to stay in touch with us 24x7, and reach out at anytime with any questions concerning the status of your matter.  We also proactively provide updates on matters.  When you work with us, you can have peace of mind that your matter is our priority.

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Estate Planning

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While we are fond of technology and leverage it in proper ways to advance our client service capabilities, there are known limitations with reliance on software to properly draft estate plans.  What may save you some money now may end up costing you much more down the line.  We advise potential clients to examine the costs of representation in light of the costs arising from any failure to obtain the proper representation for your unique situation.  It can be tempting to handle this process on your own, but hiring an estate planning lawyer is crucial to ensure that your wishes are carried out accurately and legally. 

No, you do not need to have a certain net worth to benefit from estate planning. Estate planning is valuable for individuals of all financial levels as it ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes, minimizes potential taxes and legal fees, and provides clarity and peace of mind for your loved ones. Additionally, estate planning includes important components like healthcare directives and powers of attorney, which are beneficial regardless of your net worth.

Deciding whether you need a will or a trust depends on your individual circumstances and estate planning goals. A will is essential for specifying how you want your assets distributed and who will care for minor children after your death. A trust can provide additional benefits, such as avoiding probate, managing assets during your lifetime, and offering greater control over how and when your assets are distributed. Consulting with an estate planning attorney can help you determine the best approach for your specific needs and goals.

To establish a power of attorney in Ohio, you first need to decide who you want to appoint as your agent to make decisions on your behalf. Next, you should consult with an estate planning attorney to draft the appropriate power of attorney document, specifying the powers you wish to grant. Finally, you must sign the document in the presence of either a notary public or witnesses. An estate planning attorney can guide you through each step to ensure the document meets all legal requirements and accurately reflects your wishes.

To transfer property to a loved one upon your death in Ohio, you can include specific provisions in your will or set up a trust. A will directs how your property should be distributed through the probate process, while a trust can allow for a more seamless transfer, often avoiding probate. Another option is to use transfer on death (TOD) and/or payable on death (POD) designations for real estate or financial accounts, which automatically transfer the property to your designated beneficiary without going through probate. Consulting with an estate planning attorney can help you determine the best method based on your individual circumstances.

We have invested in a technology stack that allows you to stay in touch with us 24x7, and reach out at anytime with any questions concerning the status of your matter.  We also proactively provide updates on matters.  When you work with us, you can have peace of mind that your matter is our priority.

Elder law

It's never too early to start planning for elder law matters. Ideally, you should begin the process as early as possible to ensure your wishes are legally protected. Consulting with an elder law attorney can help you navigate the complexities of estate planning, long-term care options, and healthcare directives.

Working with an elder law attorney ensures that you have an experienced advocate by your side, guiding you through complex legal matters. They can help you navigate the intricacies of estate planning, long-term care, and healthcare directives. An attorney will work diligently to protect your rights, preserve your assets, and advocate for your best interests.

During your first meeting with an elder law attorney, make sure to ask about the essential planning documents, potential financial risks, and how to safeguard your savings. Additionally, inquire about the management of legal documents and address any specific concerns you have about your situation.

Medicaid and Medicare are two government programs that provide healthcare coverage, but they serve different purposes. Medicaid is a means-tested program that provides health coverage for individuals with limited income and assets. In contrast, Medicare is a federal health insurance program primarily for individuals aged 65 and older or those with certain disabilities.

Medicaid planning works by implementing strategies to protect assets, understand application timing, and avoid penalties in order to ensure eligibility for Medicaid, particularly for covering long-term nursing home care costs. This is a complex area of the law that may involve reorganizing of finances, so it is recommended to seek professional advice.

Yes, an elder law attorney can provide valuable guidance and assistance with long-term care planning. They can help you explore different care options, such as nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and in-home care while ensuring your assets are protected.

Guardianship is a legal process where a court appoints a guardian to make personal and financial decisions for an incapacitated individual. It is necessary when an individual is unable to make informed decisions due to mental or physical incapacity. An elder law attorney can help guide you through the guardianship process and ensure that the best interests of the person under guardianship are protected.

Conservatorship is a legal process in which a court appoints an individual or entity (known as the conservator) to manage the personal and/or financial affairs of another person (known as the conservatee) who is unable to do so themselves due to mental or physical incapacity. The conservator is responsible for making decisions on behalf of the conservatee, such as managing finances, healthcare, living arrangements, and other important matters. The process begins with a petition to the court, often filed by a family member, friend, or professional. The court then evaluates the situation and, if necessary, appoints a conservator to act in the best interests of the conservatee.

While conservatorship is sometimes necessary to protect vulnerable individuals, it is a serious legal step that should be approached with care. Alternatives such as powers of attorney or advanced healthcare directives should be considered whenever possible. We help you understand your options and guide you through the conservatorship process if it becomes necessary. 

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Business Law

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While you can start a business without legal representation and advice, consulting with a knowledgeable business attorney can provide valuable guidance and prevent a lot of stress and pitfalls in the future.

A partnership is a type of business where two or more individuals share ownership and liability. An LLC (Limited Liability Company) offers similar liability protection but with added flexibility in terms of management and taxation.

A business partnership agreement should address key aspects such as profit sharing, decision-making authority, dispute resolution, and exit strategies.

When starting an online business, some key legal issues to consider include privacy policies, terms of service, intellectual property rights, and compliance with online sales tax regulations.

Real Estate Law

While both professionals are involved in real estate transactions, a real estate attorney focuses on handling the legal aspects of the transaction, ensuring compliance with laws, and protecting the client's rights and interests. A real estate agent, on the other hand, assists in the buying or selling process and helps with property searches, negotiations, and paperwork.

While it's not legally required to hire a real estate attorney when working with a real estate agent, it is highly recommended. Real estate lawyers have specialized legal knowledge and can provide personalized advice and guidance throughout the transaction, protecting your interests and ensuring a smooth process.

Title insurance protects property owners and lenders against any potential issues or claims that may arise regarding the property's ownership. It ensures that the title is clear and marketable, giving you peace of mind that your investment is protected.

Yes, many real estate attorneys have experience in both commercial and residential transactions. They can provide guidance on the specific legal requirements and nuances of each type of transaction.

The cost of hiring a real estate attorney can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the transaction and the attorney's experience. It's best to discuss fees upfront and understand what services are included in the overall cost.

The timeline for a real estate transaction can vary depending on several factors, including the complexity of the deal, the responsiveness of all parties involved, and local regulations. On average, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to complete a transaction.

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Rhodium Law, LLC is an estate plannning and elder law firm serving clients in Greater Cleveland and throughout the State of Ohio. We assist individuals and families to STRATEGIZE, SECURE their legacy, and help their golden years SHINE bright.
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