How is statutory dower defined in Ohio?

Statutory dower in Ohio provides a surviving spouse with a life estate in one-third of the real property that the deceased spouse owned at the time of death. This means that the surviving spouse has the right to live in or receive income from one-third of the real estate for the duration of their life, regardless of the terms of the deceased spouse's will or other estate planning documents.

This provision ensures that the surviving spouse is protected and retains an interest in the couple's marital property, reflecting Ohio's commitment to providing support for bereaved spouses. It's important to note that this right is specifically about a life estate, meaning that it lasts only for the lifetime of the surviving spouse, and it reverts back to the estate upon their death.

This concept plays a significant role in estate planning in Ohio, influencing how individuals approach their wills and property distribution to ensure that their surviving spouse is adequately provided for after their passing.