John L. Pilarski

He assists clients with estate and trust planning, administration and taxation, from the preparation of simple wills and revocable trusts to structuring and administering wealth transfers subject to the estate tax, gift tax, or generation skipping transfer tax. Mr. Pilarski represents both individual and corporate fiduciaries in probate proceedings and the trust administration process. He also assists clients in planning and forming corporations, LLCs or other business entities.

“Whether you are planning the parameters of your future medical care, or establishing support for loved ones upon your death, I can help with all aspects of trust and estates issues. You worked hard for your family, so knowing that you have planned for their long-term well-being and financial security can bring you comfort. I thoroughly analyze your estate and strategize the best means of transferring your assets, minimizing taxes, establishing guardianship for your children, caring for your pets, supporting personal philanthropic causes, and protecting your loved ones.”

He drafts valid wills that ensure his client's intentions are honored. A will is essential at every stage of life. A living will sets the parameters for medical intervention should the client be incapacitated. It also assures that when they are most vulnerable, their wishes will be honored. The last will provides the opportunity to distribute property, establish care for children, and otherwise express a person's wishes upon their death. A will is necessary if one intends to leave property to a person or entity other than a blood relative such as a domestic partner, a friend, or a charity. If a person dies without a will, a court determines how their property is distributed, who cares for their children, and even what happens to their pet — making decisions that might not reflect the person's desires.

As people go through life, so might their estate plan. It may be necessary to update one's will throughout one's life. John can help draft valid codicils that address changes in the client's financial situation, marital status, number of children, philanthropic interests, and general lifestyle decisions.

When minor children are involved, a will allows the parent to make decisions about their child(ren)'s future care. This is especially crucial in a situation involving single parents, or if both parents die in a common and tragic incident. If no guardian has been named, the court will appoint a guardian for the children and can make decisions adverse to the ultimate parenting goals of the deceased parent. It is also important to make arrangements for the care of pets and it is possible to name a guardian to take responsibility for one's pets.

He assists executors in all steps of the process, including: creating a plan of action to probate the estate fairly and expeditiously; filing the will with the Florida or Ohio probate court; closing and opening bank accounts; transferring assets from the deceased to the estate; paying taxes and other debts; locating beneficiaries; and hiring professional experts when necessary.

He has the extensive knowledge to challenge invalid wills or defend valid wills against the improper assertions of dissatisfied beneficiaries. He is a skillful mediator and litigator and will preserve relationships or fastidiously pursue his client's rights in court when necessary.