Estate Planning
5 signs your estate plan may no longer protect your family
You may have created estate plans years ago when life looked very different. You may have even signed documents when your children were younger or when you first bought a home. As life changes, your plan can lose strength if you do not update it. Michigan probate...
When should you update your power of attorney under Michigan law?
A power of attorney gives another person authority to act for you. That document can shape how your finances or health care decisions get handled if you cannot speak for yourself. Michigan law allows flexibility, but life changes can make an old document risky. Major...
Guardian vs. conservator: What’s the difference?
When a loved one struggles to manage their affairs, terms like "guardianship" and "conservatorship" often come up. You may hear people use these words interchangeably. However, in Michigan, these are two distinct legal roles created and governed by the Estates and...
What should same-sex couples know about estate planning?
Estate planning helps protect assets, safeguard loved ones, and ensure that wishes are honored. For same-sex couples, creating a clear plan takes on added importance because legal protections may differ based on changing laws and family dynamics. Why estate planning...
Do you need probate for every estate in Michigan?
When someone close to you dies, dealing with their property can feel confusing and overwhelming. In Michigan, not every estate needs probate, but many do. Learning when it's required helps you plan better. What probate means in Michigan Probate is how the law moves...
What happens if you die without a will?
If you die without a will in Michigan, the state’s laws determine how your estate will distribute. This is known as "intestate succession." The process can confuse you and may not align with what you would want for your family or assets. It’s important to understand...
Undue influence in estate planning
Undue influence is a common issue in estate planning. It occurs when someone pressures or manipulates a person into changing their will or estate planning documents. The person being influenced may be elderly, ill or otherwise vulnerable. As a result, the estate plan...
Why should you update your estate plan?
Estate planning isn’t a one-and-done task. Life changes and so should your estate plan. If you want to make sure your wishes are respected and your loved ones are protected, updating your estate plan regularly is key. When major life events happen Big changes like...
What are the key differences between a will and a trust?
Estate planning can involve many decisions, but two of the most common tools people use are wills and trusts. While both help manage the distribution of assets after death, they have distinct differences that can affect how one’s estate is handled. A will: The basic...
How do I plan for a child’s inheritance?
Establishing a comprehensive inheritance plan for your child requires strategic thinking and a firm grasp of legal and financial tools. A well-structured plan ensures the orderly transfer of assets while safeguarding your child’s future interests. Start with a legally...