Law Office of Ryan M. Smith

Law Office of Ryan M. Smith Estate Planning - Real Estate - Genuine Care
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Subletting is common during the graduation and relocation seasons, since existing tenants often sign yearlong leases but...
05/12/2026

Subletting is common during the graduation and relocation seasons, since existing tenants often sign yearlong leases but must move out before their leases end. This can make subleasing an attractive option for new graduates, but there are some key legal considerations to be aware of before taking the plunge.

🔹Subletting is not always automatically permitted by every lease. Many leases require written landlord approval before a tenant can sublet. It is best practice to verify that subleasing is permitted before signing any documents.

🔹Even when subletting is allowed, the original tenant often remains legally responsible for rent and potential damages caused by the subtenant, creating tricky legal situations.

If you have questions about a subleasing agreement or another renting concern, give us a call. We are here to help make sure your rights and interests are protected.

Graduation season is in full swing, which means that many students are renting for the first time, whether they are join...
05/04/2026

Graduation season is in full swing, which means that many students are renting for the first time, whether they are joining the workforce or heading off to college. For parents and students alike, it is crucial to understand some key responsibilities of cosigners, since many first-time renters will require one.

While co-signing may feel like a formality, it carries serious legal and financial responsibility. Here is what to know:

🔹 A co-signer is typically equally liable for the lease, meaning they can be held responsible for unpaid rent, property damage, or lease violations.

🔹 Landlords are often not required to pursue the tenant first before seeking payment from the co-signer.

If you have questions about cosigning or any other real estate law concerns, do not hesitate to reach out. Our firm is here to help protect your interests.

While major assets often get the most attention, personal items like heirlooms, furniture, or jewelry can hold deep sent...
04/30/2026

While major assets often get the most attention, personal items like heirlooms, furniture, or jewelry can hold deep sentimental value and lead to conflict if not clearly addressed. Without a clear plan:

🔹Unclear distribution can create confusion between family members.
🔹Sentimental items may not end up with the right person.
🔹Small oversights run the risk of creating emotional rifts within your family.

It can be a good idea to use a personal property memorandum to clearly outline who should receive which items, while keeping your will easy to update.

If you have questions about your current estate plan or would like to schedule a review, do not hesitate to reach out. We are here to help you.

Estate planning is not just about what happens after you are gone; it also covers what happens if you cannot make decisi...
04/28/2026

Estate planning is not just about what happens after you are gone; it also covers what happens if you cannot make decisions for yourself.

Without valid, updated health care directives, your loved ones may face delays or legal complications, medical care could be postponed, and your wishes may not be followed accurately.

For this reason, it is important to review your health care directive regularly and ensure it includes a health care proxy (also known as a medical power of attorney) that complies with your state’s laws.

If you need help reviewing or updating your health care directive, give us a call. We are here to support you.

Naming a primary beneficiary is an important step, but it is not enough on its own. If that person is unable or unwillin...
04/21/2026

Naming a primary beneficiary is an important step, but it is not enough on its own. If that person is unable or unwilling to inherit your assets and no backup plan is in place, you risk:

🔹Assets ending up in probate.
🔹The distribution of assets not reflecting your wishes.
🔹Your plan lacking the flexibility life demands.

With this in mind, it can be a good idea to name alternative beneficiaries and include contingency clauses to keep your plan aligned and your assets protected, even when life changes.

If you are unsure whether your estate plan is flexible enough, now is a good time to review it. Contact us today to get started.

This spring, we are sharing an important reminder that estate planning helps protect you and your loved ones in all seas...
04/16/2026

This spring, we are sharing an important reminder that estate planning helps protect you and your loved ones in all seasons of life. With a strong foundation and regular updates, your estate plan can grow with you.

If you do not already have an estate plan or need to update your existing plan, give our team a call. We are here to help you.

When it comes to real estate appraisals, the numbers do not always speak for themselves.Real estate attorneys can play a...
03/25/2026

When it comes to real estate appraisals, the numbers do not always speak for themselves.

Real estate attorneys can play a critical role in ensuring the appraisal process is fair, transparent, and legally sound — especially in disputes, refinancings, or estate matters.

Here’s how we can help:

✅ Reviewing appraisal reports for accuracy and legal compliance.
✅ Representing clients in appraisal disputes or appeals.
✅ Ensuring appraisals meet requirements in transactions or litigation.
✅ Protecting your rights in property tax or eminent domain cases.

Whether you're buying, selling, or settling a dispute, legal guidance can make all the difference.

Have questions? Let’s talk. Give us a call today!

Contingent beneficiaries may look like a small checkbox on life insurance or retirement accounts, but they can make a bi...
03/17/2026

Contingent beneficiaries may look like a small checkbox on life insurance or retirement accounts, but they can make a big difference in ensuring your wishes are honored.

Swipe to learn more. And if you have questions about beneficiaries or other estate planning matters, call our office today.

Your life is not only on paper anymore, and your estate plan should account for those digital assets, ranging from finan...
03/12/2026

Your life is not only on paper anymore, and your estate plan should account for those digital assets, ranging from financial accounts to digital financial holdings.

Swipe to see a few key insights about incorporating digital assets into an estate plan. Want to account for your digital life in your estate plan? Call our office today. We are here to help with every aspect of estate planning.

Once a child becomes a legal adult, parents no longer have automatic rights to make medical or financial decisions on th...
03/03/2026

Once a child becomes a legal adult, parents no longer have automatic rights to make medical or financial decisions on their behalf, even in an emergency. That is why it is so important to have the right legal documents in place. Swipe to learn more.

If your child needs help preparing or executing these documents, we can help. Give us a call today.

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100 Front Street
Marietta, OH
45750

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