This article presents a sample workflow for Probate & Estate Administration matters. Since every law firm and jurisdiction may be a little different, we encourage you to edit this workflow based on your own preferences or jurisdictional requirements.
If you are new to Smokeball and Workflows, review our Workflows article to learn the basics It is simple to assign tasks to an attorney responsible, person assisting, or specific staff members.
Sample Decedent’s Estate Workflow for Ohio
This workflow includes tasks to file as soon as possible, but also includes deadline reminders. You do not need to include both. The deadlines often have reminders on them, so you don’t miss the date, as well as task categories. The forms mentioned are specific to the state of Ohio or Federal forms. You may need to use forms specific to the county where the decedent resided.
|
Task |
Due When |
Assignee |
Form to attach |
|
Get a copy of the signed will if applicable and a copy of the death certificate |
On Matter Opening |
Person Assisting |
 |
|
Start collecting Asset information |
On Matter Opening |
Person Assisting |
 |
|
File Petition for Probate |
On Get a copy of the signed will if applicable and a copy of the death certificate completed |
Person Assisting |
Form 2.0 - Application to Probate Will |
|
Deadline to File Petition for Probate |
30 Days after Date of Death |
Person Assisting |
Form 2.0 - Application to Probate Will |
|
Deadline for Notice to Heirs and Beneficiaries |
2 weeks after Notice of Commencement Date |
Attorney Responsible |
Form 2.2 Notice of Probate of Will |
|
Publish Notice to Creditors |
2 Working Days after Notice of Commencement Date  |
Person Assisting |
 |
|
Deadline for Notice to Creditors |
30 Days after Notice of Commencement Date  |
Attorney Responsible |
 |
|
Prepare Inventory |
2 Months after Notice of Commencement Date  |
Person Assisting |
Form 6.0 - Inventory and Appraisal |
|
Deadline for Inventory Filing |
3 Months after Notice of Commencement Date |
Attorney Responsible |
Form 6.0 - Inventory and Appraisal |
|
Deadline for filing creditor claims |
6 Months after Notice of Commencement Date |
Attorney Responsible |
 |
|
Prepare Final Accounting |
5 Months after Notice of Commencement Date |
Person Assisting |
Form 13.0 - Fiduciary's Account (Final Accounting); Form 24.0 - Final Account |
|
Deadline for Final Accounting |
6 Months after Notice of Commencement Date |
Attorney Responsible |
Form 13.0 - Fiduciary's Account (Final Accounting); Form 24.0 - Final Account |
|
Prepare Federal Estate Tax if needed |
1 month before Deadline for Federal Estate Tax |
Person Assisting |
Form 706Â |
|
Deadline for Federal Estate Tax |
9 months after Date of Death |
Attorney Responsible |
Form 706Â |