Business Details
35 Years
experience
Your Trusted Estate Planning & Probate Lawyers in Columbus OH
Balch Law is a boutique law firm serving clients throughout Central Ohio, with over 30 years of experience specializing in estate planning, probate, and trusts. Founded in 1991, our practice combines the depth of large-firm expertise with the personalized attention of a small firm. Our principal attorney, Jacintha Kraft Balch, holds the highest Martindale-Hubbell AV rating and is recognized as an Ohio Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Probate, and Trusts. We prioritize practical, client-focused solutions, with a track record of excellence in guiding families and small business owners through complex legal matters.Our commitment to education and community engagement is reflected in our frequent speaking engagements and leadership roles in local professional organizations. We emphasize transparency, strategic planning, and tailored approaches to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring long-term security and peace of mind.
Services
Estate Planning
Probate Administration
Trust Creation
Prenuptial Agreements
Small Business Law
Elder Law
Real Estate Law
Details
- Year established: 1991
Highlights and features
- We offer over 30 years of experience in estate planning and probate law.
- Our firm combines large firm experience with small firm personalized attention.
- Jacintha Kraft Balch is an Ohio Certified Specialist in Estate Planning, Probate, and Trusts.
- Named Central Ohio's top lawyer by CEO Magazine for 2009 through present.
- We serve clients throughout Central Ohio, including Columbus, Upper Arlington, and Dublin.
Associations and certifications
- Martindale-Hubbell AV
- Ohio State Bar Association Certificate
Services
Estate Planning
Balch Law designs comprehensive estate plans tailored to individual needs, including Wills, trusts, and advanced directives. Our strategies ensure assets transfer smoothly while minimizing tax burdens. Clients benefit from decades of experience in navigating complex probate laws and creating customized solutions for families and small businesses.
Probate Administration
We guide executors through Ohio's probate process, handling asset inventory, debt resolution, and court filings. Our expertise streamlines estate administration while maintaining compliance with state regulations. Clients receive proactive support to resolve disputes and distribute assets efficiently according to the decedent's wishes.
Trust Creation
Balch Law establishes various trust structures, including living trusts and special needs trusts, to protect assets and manage distributions. Our customized trust solutions accommodate unique family situations while avoiding probate delays. Clients gain peace of mind knowing their legacy will be executed exactly as intended through legally sound documentation.
Prenuptial Agreements
We draft enforceable prenuptial agreements that define property rights and financial expectations for married couples. Our approach balances legal protection with emotional considerations during life transitions. Clients receive thorough guidance to ensure agreements withstand judicial scrutiny while addressing future contingencies.
Small Business Law
Balch Law assists entrepreneurs with entity selection (LLCs, partnerships), contract drafting, and succession planning. Our business law services protect owner interests through customized operating agreements and strategic planning. Clients benefit from practical counsel on navigating legal challenges specific to small enterprises.
People
Jacintha Kraft Balch
Principal Attorney
With over 30 years of experience, Jacintha Kraft Balch specializes in estate planning, probate, and business law. A former trust department head and Vorys law firm associate, she established Balch Law in 1991. Recognized as an Ohio Certified Specialist, Jacintha combines technical expertise with personalized service to meet clients' long-term goals.
Questions
What happens if a person dies without a Will?
Ohio's Statute of Descent governs property distribution, appoints an administrator, and delays estate settlement compared to having a Will.
What are the advantages of avoiding Probate?
Avoiding probate reduces costs, maintains privacy, and expedites asset transfers through tools like trusts or beneficiary designations.
Why create a Trust instead of using probate-avoidance methods?
Trusts provide control over asset distribution, protect minor beneficiaries, and allow customized provisions for heirs' needs.
How do I fund my revocable Living Trust?
Transfer ownership of assets (e.g., real estate, accounts) to the Trust's name during your lifetime to ensure seamless distribution.
What type of trust works best for most clients?
Revocable Living Trusts offer flexibility, incapacity planning, and tax adaptability tailored to individual family and financial needs.
