How Long Does Probate Take in Ohio? (and how to avoid it)
If you’ve lost a loved one in Ohio, you may have already heard the word probate. Unfortunately, probate is a process that can feel confusing, time-consuming, and expensive for families. One of the most common questions we hear at Legacy Legal Solutions is:
“How long does probate take in Ohio?”
The short answer: most probate cases in Ohio take 6–12 months. But the long answer depends on several factors, including the county where probate is filed, the complexity of the estate, and whether there are disputes among heirs.
In this article, we’ll break down what probate is, how long it usually takes in Ohio, what can delay the process, and — most importantly — how your family can avoid it altogether.
What Is Probate in Ohio?
Probate is the legal process of transferring someone’s assets after they pass away. If the person had a will, probate ensures the will is valid and the instructions are followed. If the person didn’t have a will, Ohio law decides who inherits their property.
During probate, the probate court:
Validates the will (if one exists)
Appoints an executor or administrator
Ensures debts and taxes are paid
Distributes remaining assets to heirs
Every Ohio county has its own probate court, including Franklin County (Columbus), Licking County (Newark), Delaware County (Delaware), and Coshocton County (Coshocton).
How Long Does Probate Take in Ohio?
Most probate cases in Ohio last 6–12 months, but several factors can make it longer or shorter.
Simple estates (with few assets and no disputes)
May take as little as 4–6 months.
Example: A small estate in Licking County where the person had a will and no outstanding debts.
Average estates
Often take 6–12 months.
This is common in Franklin and Delaware Counties, where probate courts process a high volume of cases.
Complex estates
Can take 1–2 years or more.
Common reasons: business assets, multiple properties, disputes among heirs, or IRS/tax issues.
What Can Delay Probate in Ohio?
Even a straightforward estate can run into roadblocks. Common delays include:
Disputes among heirs or beneficiaries (contested wills)
Creditors making claims against the estate
Real estate that needs to be sold before assets can be distributed
Missing or incomplete documents filed with the court
Backlogs in busy counties like Franklin County
How Much Does Probate Cost in Ohio?
In addition to the time it takes, probate also comes with a cost. On average, families can expect 5–10% of the estate’s value to go toward court fees, executor fees, and attorney costs.
That means if your loved one’s estate is worth $300,000, probate could cost $15,000–$30,000.
Can Probate Be Avoided in Ohio?
The good news: yes, probate can often be avoided with the right planning. Here are some common tools used in Ohio:
Revocable Living Trust – Assets in a trust pass directly to beneficiaries without probate.
Transfer-on-Death Designations – You can add a TOD designation to real estate, vehicles, and bank accounts.
Joint Ownership with Rights of Survivorship – Property automatically passes to the co-owner.
Beneficiary Designations – Retirement accounts and life insurance can pass directly to beneficiaries.
By planning ahead, families can save months of waiting and thousands of dollars in probate costs.
Why You Shouldn’t Handle Probate Alone
Even in the simplest estates, probate is a legal process that can be overwhelming for families who are grieving. Each Ohio county has its own rules and deadlines, and mistakes can cause costly delays.
That’s why many families choose to work with an experienced Ohio probate attorney. At Legacy Legal Solutions, we guide families through probate in Franklin, Licking, Coshocton, Delaware, and surrounding counties — making the process as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Next Steps for Ohio Families
If your loved one passed away in Ohio and you’re wondering how long probate will take, here’s what you should do:
Schedule a consultation with a probate attorney near you.
Get clarity on your loved one’s estate and the expected timeline.
Decide if probate can be avoided for certain assets in the future.
Final Thoughts
Probate in Ohio usually takes 6–12 months, but it can be faster or much longer depending on the circumstances. While it may feel overwhelming, you don’t have to go through it alone.
At Legacy Legal Solutions, we help families across Ohio navigate probate with compassion and clarity. Whether you live in Franklin County, Licking County, Coshocton County, Delaware County, or anywhere in Central Ohio, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
👉 Schedule your free probate consultation today and gain peace of mind knowing your loved one’s estate is in good hands.
