Which of the following statements about a spouse's rights in Ohio is true?

In Ohio, a spouse has legal rights regarding inheritance and estates, which includes the ability to claim against the estate of a deceased spouse. This right is rooted in the law that aims to protect the surviving spouse's interest in the deceased spouse’s property. When one spouse dies, the surviving spouse typically retains certain entitlements regardless of the deceased spouse’s will or estate plan. This can include a statutory share of the estate, which ensures that the surviving spouse is not left without support.

The concept of a surviving spouse's right to claim against the estate is vital because it balances the interests of both partners in a marriage. Even if the deceased spouse had a will that left the bulk of their assets to someone else, the surviving spouse can assert their claim to ensure they receive a fair share of the marital property.

This legal framework is in place to prevent a surviving spouse from being completely excluded from inheritance, which is a significant protection for individuals in a marriage. Hence, understanding this right is essential for anyone navigating estate matters in Ohio.