Closing and Reopening a Decedent Estate in Michigan
If you are currently facing the legal aftermath following the passing of a loved one, you are sure to have questions. Whether you are an
The Powers and Duties of a Guardian in Michigan
In Michigan, guardianship grants the legal authority to care for another person, often along with their personal property and assets. Generally speaking, an adult guardian’s
What are the Differences Between Heirs, Beneficiaries, and Devisees?
What’s the difference between an heir and a devisee? Do you know what it means to be the beneficiary of a trust? Whether you are
Can You Contest the Beneficiary Designation on a Life Insurance Policy or Retirement Account?
Here in Michigan, many people use beneficiary designations as a way to transfer some of their most important assets outside of probate — including retirement
Understanding the Important Responsibilities of a Trustee
Dealing with the legal aftermath of a loved one’s passing can become complex, emotional, and time-consuming — particularly if you are named to serve as
When Can You Contest a Will in Michigan?
The passing of a loved one is incredibly difficult, and can be made even more so when this tragic loss leads to disagreements and arguments
Probate Vs. Nonprobate Assets
When an individual passes away, their property must be gathered and distributed in line with their wishes and all applicable state laws — a process
What Issues Can Come Up During Estate Administration?
Whether you are an heir or beneficiary to an estate or the personal representative responsible for guiding the decedent’s assets through the probate courts, it’s
Power of Attorney, Guardianship, and Conservatorship: Understanding the Differences
What would you do if you found yourself in a position in which you needed to act on behalf of an incapacitated spouse, parent, or
The Importance of Estate Planning During COVID-19
The ongoing outbreak of novel coronavirus COVID-19 has spread concern and uncertainty around the globe. The pandemic has also underscored the vital importance of looking
Serving as a Personal Representative: What You Need to Know
Losing a loved one can be an incredibly difficult and stressful time. On top of dealing with the grief of your loss, it’s also important
Understanding the Types of Minor Guardianship Available in Michigan
Broadly speaking, a guardian is a person who has legal responsibility for another person, and is put in charge of his or her well-being. Under
In Michigan, What Does It Mean to be Incapacitated?
In Michigan, it’s incredibly important to understand the concepts of guardianship and conservatorship — two legal ways to help maintain the well-being of an individual
Understanding 10 Common Types of Trusts In Michigan
Preparing a comprehensive estate plan can help ensure that your most important assets will be managed in accordance with your wishes both during your lifetime,
Joint Tenancy Vs. Tenancy in Common Vs. Tenants by the Entireties
Whether you’re a married couple buying a home together; family members planning to share a vacation home or cottage; or business partners ready to purchase
Everything You Need to Know About Probate Litigation in Michigan
In Metro Detroit and the State of Michigan, the probate courts oversee special types of cases involving estates and trusts, as well as the protection
Probate: A Working Definition for Michigan Families
After losing a loved one many face a difficult and emotional time — and it can be made even more complex and frustrating with the
Beneficiary Designation Disputes
Beneficiary disputes are common, and arise in a variety of situations. When there is a family feud, divorce, marriage, separation, or longterm illness, all the
ERISA Disputes
If you need to file a lawsuit under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), having an experienced lawyer can make all the difference. The
Life Insurance Beneficiary Dispute Lawyer
Major life changes can create life insurance disputes. Many disputes follow a recent marriage, remarriage, or the birth of a child. It’s not uncommon for