Legal Question in Wills and Trusts in Ohio

Paying off medical bills/credit cards

I am the sole beneficiary of my mother's ''estate''. Her home is her only asset, worth $80,000. She had a home equity load for $47,000, which of course needs to be paid. She also has about $20,000 in medical bills and credit cards, plus whatever the lawyer will charge. The estate will not end up being insolvent, however, I have heard of other cases where the attorney calls credit card companies and medical bills to try and lower the amount, etc. I am very close to filing bankruptcy myself when this is all over and ending up with $5,000 maybe, doesn't seem right. My lawyer is prepared to just pay everyone everything they're asking for without even trying to negotiate. She said I could try if I want. What is she doing? Nothing. She's filed a few papers and when the executor resigned, I was made administratrix. What can I do? Have you ever heard of creditors cutting some money from the debt? Or the charge of $600.00 for the ambulance that took her to the hospital after she died? My mother's death has been unbearable and this process just adds to the pain. Don't attornys know they are dealing with people at their most vulnerable? Any suggestions would help. Thank you


Asked on 12/21/04, 5:18 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Harold Hom Harold L. Hom Co., LPA

Re: Paying off medical bills/credit cards

Attorneys usually charge by the hour. You may ask the attorney to negotiate with the creditors, but you will need to compensate the attorney for the time whether or not he is successful with the creditors. It is usually better for you as the Administrator to negotiate with the creditors. The creditors know that they will be paid from the Estate unless their claim is rejected.

Harold L. Hom

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Answered on 12/21/04, 7:56 pm


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