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Whether you’re married, unmarried, or navigating a divorce, protecting your relationship with your child is one of the most important—and emotional—parts of parenthood. At Hoover Kacyon, we work with fathers throughout Ohio who seek clarity, confidence, and a clear path forward regarding their parental rights. Married Fathers: Equal Rights Under Ohio Law If you're married to your child's mother, Ohio law recognizes both parents as having equal rights. During a divorce or legal separation , courts evaluate custody based on the best interest of the child , not the gender of the parent. Ohio Revised Code §3109.03 confirms that mothers and fathers stand on equal footing when determining custody, parenting time, and decision-making responsibilities. However, equal rights don’t always mean equal outcomes, which is why having experienced legal representation can be crucial. Unmarried Fathers: Establishing Paternity Is Essential If you are not married to your child’s mother, you do not automatically have parental rights in Ohio. Before you can request custody or parenting time, you must legally establish paternity. You can do this in several ways: Acknowledgment of Paternity Affidavit: This is the simplest route, often signed at the hospital after birth by both parents. Administrative Order through CSEA: If paternity is uncertain or contested, Ohio’s Child Support Enforcement Agency can order genetic testing and issue a determination. Court Order: In some cases, you must establish paternity through the juvenile or domestic relations court. Once paternity is confirmed, you are legally recognized as the child’s father and can petition for shared parenting or custody—again, based on what serves the child's best interests. Protecting Your Role as a Father Navigating custody as a father can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re concerned the system may favor the mother. The truth is, Ohio courts are focused on creating parenting plans that serve the child, not on defaulting to either parent. At Hoover Kacyon, we stand with fathers who want to be present, involved, and valued in their children's lives. If you have questions about your rights or need support in a custody or paternity matter, contact our experienced family law team today. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Dividing property during divorce is rarely simple, and when it involves stocks, retirement accounts, or other investments, the process can quickly become even more complex . At Hoover Kacyon, we understand how stressful it can be to untangle financial assets during an emotionally challenging time. Our goal is to guide clients through these challenges with clarity, precision, and compassion. Marital vs. Separate Property in Ohio Ohio follows equitable distribution laws, which means marital assets are divided fairly, though not always equally. Stocks, mutual funds, and other investments acquired during the marriage are typically considered marital property, regardless of which spouse’s name is on the account. However, assets owned before the marriage or acquired via inheritance or gift are generally treated as separate property and may not be subject to division. Correctly identifying what qualifies as marital versus separate is the first step to a fair outcome. Valuing and Dividing Investment Accounts Once marital assets are identified, the next step is determining their value. This process can be especially tricky for fluctuating assets like stocks or stock options. In many cases, financial professionals are brought in to assess the value of these accounts at the time of divorce. From there, investments may be split directly or offset with other assets, such as cash, retirement funds, or real estate. If it’s impractical to divide certain accounts, one spouse may retain the investment while the other receives a comparable asset. Handling Retirement Accounts and Stock Options Retirement accounts such as 401(k)s, IRAs, and pensions are often among the most significant marital assets. In Ohio, these are commonly divided using a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), which allows for tax-free transfer of funds to the non-owning spouse. Stock options can be even more complex due to vesting schedules and potential future value. In such cases, timing, valuation methods, and division strategies require experienced legal and financial insight. Why Legal Guidance Matters If you’re divorcing in Ohio and dealing with significant investments, having skilled legal representation is critical. At Hoover Kacyon, we’re here to protect your financial future and ensure a fair division of all assets, no matter how complex. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Since the 2015 Supreme Court ruling in Obergefell v. Hodges, same-sex couples in Ohio have gained full marriage equality, granting them the same legal recognition and protections as opposite-sex couples. While this was a historic win, navigating the nuances of family law can still be complex, especially as it relates to parenting, property, and legal planning. Marriage and Family Law Protections Married same-sex couples in Ohio enjoy key rights, including joint tax filing, inheritance without a will, and medical decision-making authority for a spouse. These protections also extend to family law matters, such as child custody and spousal support. In custody cases, Ohio courts prioritize the child’s best interests, allowing both partners to seek shared custody or visitation rights, provided the court recognizes them as legal parents. Adoption laws in Ohio support joint adoption, stepparent adoption, and second-parent adoption—critical steps for couples who wish to ensure both parents have equal legal standing in their child’s life. Financial and Estate Planning Marriage grants same-sex couples access to financial benefits such as Social Security survivor benefits, spousal health insurance, and equitable division of marital property during divorce. However, couples must establish clear estate plans, including wills, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives, to avoid future legal complications and ensure their wishes are honored. Protection Against Discrimination Although federal laws prohibit discrimination in employment and housing, Ohio lacks comprehensive protections for same-sex couples in public accommodations. Staying informed about legal rights and seeking advice when issues arise is key to avoiding discrimination and ensuring equal treatment. Why Legal Guidance Matters While legal advancements have paved the way for more equal treatment, same-sex couples can still face challenges in areas like parental rights or estate disputes. Consulting with a knowledgeable family law attorney can help proactively protect your rights and provide peace of mind. At Hoover Kacyon, our team is committed to supporting all families with clarity and compassion. If you have questions about your legal rights as a same-sex couple in northeastern Ohio, we’re here to help you navigate every step of the process. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Adopting a child is a life-changing decision that is both exciting and complex. While adoption success rates remain high, the process can be challenging, especially for first-time adoptive parents. At Hoover Kacyon, we help Ohio families navigate the adoption process with confidence by avoiding common pitfalls that can delay or even derail it. 1. Trying to Navigate the Process Without Legal Support Adoption involves a maze of paperwork, deadlines, and legal requirements. One of the biggest mistakes families make is attempting to handle it all alone. An experienced Ohio adoption attorney can ensure that every step is completed accurately and legally. From reviewing agreements to guiding you through court proceedings, legal guidance can save time, stress, and potential setbacks. 2. Overlooking the Role of Birth Parents Regardless of the type of adoption—whether private, agency, or open—respecting the birth parents is essential. In open adoptions, where communication between adoptive and birth families is more common, maintaining a respectful and transparent relationship benefits everyone, especially the child. Compassion and understanding can go a long way in creating a smooth transition for all involved. 3. Ignoring Adoption Regulations and Updates Adoption laws are continually evolving to protect children and families. In Ohio, rules regarding advertising for adoption, social media usage, and financial transactions are taken seriously. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to legal issues or the denial of your adoption petition. Always consult with your adoption professional or attorney before making public posts or agreements. 4. Skipping the Research Every adoption is different. Costs, wait times, and legal requirements can vary significantly based on the circumstances. Doing your homework—about the agency, the process, and even travel requirements—can prevent delays or misunderstandings. Knowledge is power, especially when supported by trusted legal counsel. 5. Falling for Adoption Scams Sadly, scams still target hopeful adoptive parents. Be wary of anyone requesting large payments in advance or promising a quick match. A qualified Ohio adoption lawyer can help you vet agencies, review contracts, and ensure your adoption follows all legal standards. Ready to Start the Journey? At Hoover Kacyon, our adoption attorneys are here to guide you through every step, from the initial consultation to finalization. If you're considering adoption in 2025, contact our team today to learn how we can help you build your family with confidence and peace of mind. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals, while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to schedule an appointment.

Meeting with an attorney for the first time—often called an initial consultation—is a key step in addressing your legal issue. Whether you're dealing with family matters, criminal charges, or civil disputes, this first meeting helps both you and the attorney determine if you're a good fit to work together. Even if you decide not to hire that lawyer, the consultation can still offer valuable insight and direction. To make the most of this appointment, preparation is essential. Here are a few ways to ensure your consultation is productive and efficient: 1. Write Down Your Questions Before your meeting, jot down any questions or concerns you want addressed. This step helps ensure you don’t forget anything important in the moment. Bring a notepad to take notes, or leave room next to your questions for the attorney's responses. 2. Share Key Details If there’s something important about your case—even if it feels minor or uncomfortable—write it down. Confidentiality rules bind attorneys and require them not to disclose what you share unless legally required. Information you think is irrelevant might be crucial to your case. 3. Bring Relevant Documents Gather any paperwork tied to your legal issue. This compilation could include court filings, contracts, photos, emails, or text messages. These materials give the attorney a clearer picture of your situation. 4. Provide Copies Avoid handing over original documents. Instead, bring or send copies ahead of time via email or secure upload. This effort saves time and allows the attorney to review your case more thoroughly. 5. Be Ready to Pay Some consultations are free, but many involve a small fee. Plan by bringing a form of payment—cash, check, or card. 6. Consider Confidentiality If you want to bring someone for support, be aware that it may affect confidentiality. Conversations with your lawyer are privileged—unless a third party is present. 7. Limit Distractions Turn off your phone before the meeting to show respect for the attorney’s time—and to stay focused on the discussion. Need Legal Help in Ohio?  At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we’re committed to guiding clients through their legal challenges with compassion and clarity. We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward.

After an accident, the stress can feel relentless—medical bills, lost wages, and the emotional strain of recovery all add up. During this time, having a personal injury attorney in your corner can make a significant difference. Legal Expertise You Can Trust Personal injury law is complex. An experienced attorney understands how to navigate local laws, deadlines, and liability issues to protect your rights. Without that knowledge, you risk missing key opportunities to strengthen your case or file within the correct time frame. Accurately Valuing Your Claim Your injuries may impact you far beyond your current medical bills. An attorney knows how to evaluate your claim based on long-term needs like future treatments, loss of earning potential, and emotional suffering. This valuation ensures you’re not settling for less than you deserve. Dealing with Insurance Companies Insurance companies aim to pay as little as possible. A seasoned lawyer understands their tactics and negotiates on your behalf, significantly increasing your chances of securing a fair settlement. Resources That Strengthen Your Case Personal injury lawyers often work with medical experts, accident reconstruction specialists, and investigators to build strong, evidence-backed cases. These professionals help clarify what happened and why you deserve compensation. Support Through Every Step Handling legal paperwork, meeting deadlines, and communicating with insurers can be overwhelming, especially when you need to focus on healing. Your attorney takes on that burden, allowing you to focus on recovery. Plus, many work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless they win your case. Get the Support You Deserve At Hoover Kacyon LLC, we believe no one should face the aftermath of an accident alone. Our team is here to provide knowledgeable legal support, advocate for your best interests, and help you confidently move forward. We are dedicated to supporting our clients in Akron, Cuyahoga Falls, and Fairlawn, Ohio, and delivering the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent, compassionate customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment and find out how we can help you get the compensation you need—and the peace of mind you deserve.

First off, congratulations on your engagement! As you dive into the exciting world of wedding planning—choosing the venue, tasting cake samples, and managing guest lists—it’s easy to focus on the celebration and overlook the legal and financial foundation of your future together. One important item that often gets left off the checklist is a prenuptial agreement. Why Consider a Prenuptial Agreement in Ohio? A prenuptial agreement , or “prenup,” is a legally binding contract made before marriage that outlines how to handle assets, debts, and financial matters in the event of divorce or death. In Ohio, prenups are enforceable if they are entered voluntarily, disclose all assets fully, and are fair when signing. Couples might consider a prenup to: Protect pre-marital assets or businesses Define responsibility for individual and joint debts Plan for future inheritances Outline spousal support expectations While you cannot include child custody or child support terms in a prenup under Ohio law (those decisions are always made in the child's best interest at the time of separation), you can make agreements about things like future education expenses or additional support. Starting the Conversation Bringing up a prenup doesn’t have to be awkward. Here are a few tips to make the conversation easier: Choose your timing wisely. Find a calm moment when you’re both open to discussing your future. Be transparent about your reasons. Framing the agreement as a mutual protection and clarity tool can go a long way. Engage your partner . This process should be a joint one, not a demand from one side. Stay focused on your relationship. Input from others is natural, but the agreement should reflect your shared values and goals. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and practical aspects of marriage planning. A prenup isn’t about expecting failure—it’s about entering your marriage with honesty, respect, and shared understanding. Ready to talk it through? Our family law attorneys are here to help you protect what matters most—now and in the future. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.

Passing away without a will—also known as dying intestate—means that the probate court will decide how to distribute your assets under Ohio’s intestate succession laws. While this process ensures your property eventually goes to family, it may not reflect your wishes. Understanding Intestacy in Ohio When someone dies intestate, the law determines their “heirs”—typically close relatives like a spouse, children, parents, or siblings. In Ohio, the distribution depends heavily on your family structure at death. If you’re married with children , your surviving spouse may inherit everything, but if you have children from a previous relationship, your estate could be divided between them. If you're unmarried , your children are first in line, followed by parents, siblings, and so on. Without any surviving relatives, your estate could eventually pass to the state. Not All Assets Go Through Probate It’s important to understand that not every asset is subject to probate , even if you die without a will. Assets with named beneficiaries, such as: Life insurance policies Retirement accounts (401(k)s, IRAs) Payable-on-death (POD) or transfer-on-death (TOD) accounts Property held in joint tenancy with right of survivorship These pass directly to the named person, bypassing probate entirely. That means even without a will, those designations can dictate where a portion of your estate goes. What About Real Estate in Other States? If you own property outside Ohio, that real estate will be distributed according to the laws of the state in which it is located, not Ohio’s. This detail can lead to additional complications and delays for your loved ones. Avoid the Guesswork—Create a Will Relying on state law to determine who receives your assets can result in unintended consequences. Cohabitating partners, stepchildren, or close friends are generally not considered legal heirs under Ohio law and could be left with nothing. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, our estate planning attorneys can help you draft a clear, legally valid will that ensures your wishes are carried out and your loved ones are protected. Don’t leave your legacy to chance—c all us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service.

The COVID-19 pandemic led many individuals to take action on their estate plans —either by creating a will for the first time or updating an existing one. This shift was a step in the right direction. Dying without a will, known as dying intestate, means that Ohio law will determine how to divide your assets, which can create unnecessary complications for your loved ones. However, even with a will in place, there’s another critical piece of the puzzle: your beneficiary designations . Beneficiary Designations Override Your Will Many people don’t realize that the beneficiaries named on certain accounts—like retirement plans, life insurance policies, bank accounts, and investment accounts— supersede what’s written in your will. This means that even if your will says one thing, these accounts will go to the person listed on the form, regardless of how long ago it was completed. That’s why it’s essential to regularly review and update your beneficiary designations, especially after major life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or the death of a loved one. Even a change in address or name should prompt a review to ensure everything remains accurate and aligned with your intentions. Consider Charitable Beneficiaries In some cases, naming a nonprofit or charitable organization as a beneficiary can be a thoughtful and tax-efficient option. Because charities are tax-exempt, they can receive retirement assets without the income tax burden an individual might face. If you choose this route, be sure to list the organization's full legal name to avoid confusion. Keep Your Estate Plan Current Ultimately, you are responsible for updating your beneficiary designations. Make it a habit to revisit your estate plan—including these designations—every few years. If you need assistance or have questions, the estate planning attorneys at Hoover Kacyon, LLC are here to help guide you through the process with clarity and care. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.

Even the strongest marriages face challenges. When couples exchange vows, they do so with hope and commitment to a shared future. But sometimes, despite the best intentions, a marriage no longer serves both individuals—and the idea of divorce becomes a reality. If you’re contemplating filing for divorce in Ohio but are unsure whether now is the right time, it’s important to pause and reflect on a few key areas before taking the next step. Have You Explored All Options to Reconcile? Before proceeding with a divorce, consider whether you’ve truly done all you can to repair the relationship. Especially when children are involved, it’s crucial to try every avenue to preserve the family unit. Have you considered marriage counseling or dedicated time to open, honest communication? Are there reasonable compromises that could help resolve long-standing issues? Divorce is a significant legal and emotional step—ideally, one you take only after exploring all other options. How Will This Affect Your Children? When children are part of the picture, the divorce process becomes even more complex. As you think through your next steps, ask yourself: Are the children already aware of tensions at home? How might each child react to a separation? Can you and your spouse work together to develop a custody arrangement outside of court? Are you prepared to address child support or potential spousal support under Ohio law? Can you continue to share a home peacefully while working out the details? The more clarity you gain on these matters before filing, the smoother the process can be for everyone involved. Getting Legal Guidance Early Matters At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we understand the emotional and legal complexities that come with divorce. Our experienced family law attorneys are here to guide you through the process with compassion and clarity, helping you protect your rights and prioritize your family’s well-being. If you're thinking about divorce, don’t navigate the decision alone. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.

A divorce is a life-changing event that requires updating many aspects of your life—including your estate plan. If you fail to revise your will, trusts , and beneficiary designations after divorce, unintended beneficiaries, including your ex-spouse, could inherit your assets. Learn to navigate these important updates to ensure your estate plan reflects your current wishes. Revising Your Will In Ohio, divorce automatically revokes any provisions in a will that benefit a former spouse. This detail means that if you had previously named your ex-spouse as a beneficiary or executor, they will now be treated as if they had predeceased you. However, this does not apply to other family members of your ex-spouse whom you may have included in your will. If you still wish to leave assets to your ex-spouse or make other changes, you must draft a new will that clearly states your intentions. Most wills include language that revokes prior versions, ensuring clarity in case of disputes. A new will also allows you to reassign executors and beneficiaries according to your updated preferences. Reviewing Trusts Trusts are common estate planning tools that also require careful review after divorce. If you have a revocable trust , Ohio law typically removes your ex-spouse as a beneficiary. However, irrevocable trusts do not change automatically—meaning your ex-spouse may still be entitled to benefits unless you restructure the trust. To avoid unintended outcomes, it is essential to review all trust agreements with an experienced estate planning attorney who can help modify or create new trusts as needed. Updating Beneficiary Designations Not all assets pass through a will or trust. Many financial accounts, including life insurance policies, retirement accounts, and payable-on-death (POD) bank accounts , are distributed based on beneficiary designations. A divorce does not automatically revoke these designations in Ohio, so if your ex-spouse remains listed, they could still receive those assets. To prevent this, update all beneficiary designations through your financial institutions, workplace benefits, and insurance providers. Naming a Legal Guardian for Minor Children If you have minor children, your estate plan should name a legal guardian in case something happens to you. While custody typically goes to the surviving parent, you should name a backup guardian in case your ex-spouse predeceases you or is deemed unfit. Working with an attorney ensures these plans align with Ohio law and your family's best interests. Take Action Today Failing to update your estate plan after divorce can lead to unintended consequences, including assets going to the wrong individuals or disputes among family members. At Hoover Kacyon, LLC, we guide residents of Akron, Fairlawn, and Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, through this process, ensuring their estate plan reflects their new circumstances and protects their loved ones. If you are recently divorced or in the process of divorcing, schedule a consultation with our estate planning team today. Let us help you secure your future with confidence. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.

Parents are often thrilled when their children marry, welcoming new family members with the hope of a lifelong union. However, as reality shows, marriages don’t always last. While you can’t shield your children from the emotional toll of divorce, you can take steps to ensure their inheritance remains protected. Including asset protection in your estate planning can prevent an ex-spouse from claiming part of your child’s inheritance in a divorce. How Ohio Law Treats Inheritance in Divorce Ohio follows an “equitable distribution” system, meaning marital property is divided fairly—but not necessarily equally—during a divorce . While assets inherited by one spouse are generally considered separate property, they can easily become marital property if commingled. For instance, if your child inherits money and deposits it into a joint bank account with their spouse, it can lose its status as separate property. Similarly, if an inherited home is jointly improved or used as the couple’s residence, its increased value may be considered marital property. Once separate property becomes marital property, it typically cannot be reversed. Strategies to Protect an Inheritance from Divorce To safeguard your child’s inheritance, consider the following options: 1. Establishing a Trust A well-structured trust is one of the best ways to protect an inheritance. Two primary options exist: Revocable Trust – Allows flexibility while the grantor is alive, ensuring assets are managed and distributed according to predetermined terms. Since the trust, not the child, owns the assets, they are protected from becoming marital property. Irrevocable Trust – Provides stronger protection by preventing the assets from being reclaimed by the grantor. This step ensures the inheritance is shielded not only from divorce but also from creditors and legal claims. 2. Using a Limited Liability Company (LLC) For inheritances involving family businesses, farms, or valuable property, an LLC can be an effective tool. By structuring ownership through an LLC, assets remain separate and protected, preventing them from being subject to division in a divorce. Secure Your Family’s Future The unfortunate reality is that nearly half of marriages end in divorce. By taking proactive steps now, you can help ensure that your child’s inheritance remains protected for future generations. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney at Hoover Kacyon LLC can provide peace of mind and legal strategies tailored to your family's needs. Contact Hoover Kacyon LLC today to discuss safeguarding your child’s inheritance and securing your legacy. We deliver the highest quality legal representation from a team of professionals while also providing excellent customer service. Call us at 330-922-4491 or contact us online to make an appointment.