The Downsides of DIY Estate Planning
You may be familiar with the concept of “Do It Yourself,” or “DIY.” In short, this ethos is all about tackling important projects on your
Understanding Michigan’s Homestead Allowance, Family Allowance, and Exempt Property
Losing a loved one is always difficult and emotionally trying. The loss of a family member can take on a new dimension when the decedent
Power of Attorney Abuse: What to Know and How to Prepare
Unfortunately, it’s inevitable for bad things to happen. Fortunately, it’s possible to take precautions to make bad situations easier to manage. If something happens that
What Is a Holographic Will?
Here in Michigan, a will is an important estate planning tool — one that can allow you to maintain control over the distribution of your
What Can a Probate and Estates Attorney Do for You?
When you have a foot problem, you go to the podiatrist. When you have a heart problem, you go to the cardiologist. When you want
What Are the Powers and Duties of a Conservator in Michigan?
As defined by Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC), a conservator is a person appointed by a court to manage a protected individual’s estate.
Unpacking 7 Myths About Estate Planning and Probate
Estate planning is one of the most useful and important steps you can take to prepare for the future — but it is also one
FAQ: What Is the Estates and Protected Individuals Code, or EPIC?
If you spend any time researching matters relating to guardianships, conservatorships, wills, trusts, and estate administration in Michigan, you’re bound to come across the phrase
Estate Planning for Young Families
Here in Michigan and across the country, there is an all-too-common belief that estate planning is only something to think about when you’re elderly. By
“My Loved One Just Passed Away in Michigan. What Are My Next Steps?”
Losing a loved one can be an incredibly difficult time. On top of the understandable grief and devastation at losing someone dear — whether a
Managing Creditors’ Claims and Resolving Debts During Michigan Probate
Over the course of a lifetime, we all acquire assets and possessions — and most of us also take on debt, in some form or
Understanding Intestate Succession: What Happens if Someone Dies Without a Will in Michigan?
If someone passes away without a will in Michigan, many of their assets will become subject to our state’s rules of intestate succession. Broadly speaking,
Who Needs a Power of Attorney?
In estate planning, mechanisms such as wills and trusts can help guide and direct your assets after you pass away. What happens if you become
Formal, Informal, and Supervised Estate Proceedings In Michigan
The passing of a loved one can be incredibly difficult — particularly when you are put in the position of helping guide their estate through
How to Start the Estate Planning Conversation With Your Loved Ones
Whether you are hoping to encourage a loved one to begin the estate planning process, or looking for the best ways to discuss your personal
Amending or Updating a Will in Michigan
A will is an important estate planning document for anyone who is looking to prepare for the future care of their family and assets. Wills
Managing Bills and Expenses for a Sick or Aging Parent: What Michigan Families Need to Know
For many families, the responsibility for managing an elderly parent’s finances often falls to members of the “Sandwich Generation” — that is, their adult children,
6 Things to Consider When Choosing a Personal Representative
Who do you trust to carry out your wishes and make sure that your affairs are handled, when you’re no longer around to oversee these
Michigan Estate Planning: Understanding The 5 W’s
There are many myths and misconceptions out there about estate planning. That it’s only for the wealthy, or for older adults. That being married or
FAQ: ‘How Long Does Probate Take In Michigan?’
The probate court is not a comfortable setting for handling an estate. Not only are the emotions and stress high from losing someone dear, the