You don't have to dread getting started on your estate plan in Michigan. This is not a process that, by nature, needs to be lengthy, tedious, and contentious. The whole point of drawing up an estate plan is to protect and provide for your loved ones. It's a way of...
Estate Planning
What you need in your estate planning checklist
Estate planning is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your loved ones. Unfortunately, it can be a complex and confusing process. This checklist will help you get started on estate planning and make sure you have all your bases covered. Take...
How to navigate estate planning and retirement in Michigan
As Michigan residents get older, the conversations around estate planning and their future might get more complicated. This process gets even more complex if you haven't updated your estate plan to address new beneficiaries or assets, such as retirement plans. How to...
What does an executor of the estate do in Michigan?
Writing a will involves careful thinking and planning. Besides choosing what beneficiaries receive particular assets, a will could provide other directives related to the estate. Another point worth noting is there could be unfinished business with the estate that...
Court procedures before appointing a disability guardian
Appointing a guardian to care for the inabilities of another human being in Michigan is a delicate matter. The challenges that arise often occur if the court hasn't fully prepared. For this reason, you can expect a thorough investigation to be made before any...
Dealing with debts of a deceased relative in Michigan
When someone passes away in Michigan, their debts don't die with them. If they had any outstanding balances, the responsibility of paying those bills falls on the shoulders of their estate. However, there are times when their family members might be held responsible....
What could delay a probate case?
If your Michigan home, a bank account or other assets remain in your estate when you pass away, they may need to be probated. In many cases, probate is a relatively easy and timely process. However, there are many reasons why a probate proceeding may be delayed. Are...
Avoiding common estate planning issues in Michigan
Estate planning is a great way to ensure that your assets reach your heirs and are passed down according to your wishes. However, it can get messy if you don't take the right steps or make errors along the way. To avoid any estate planning mess, do the following:...
What do you need to know about closing an estate in Michigan?
Closing an estate in Michigan is the last stage of your role as executor. When you close the estate, you are informing the court that you fulfilled your duties. You can expect the process to take at least five months because there are many tasks you need to complete...
How to choose the executor of your will in Michigan
When you are making estate plans, the executor of your estate is one of the most important decisions you will make. The executor is in charge of carrying out your wishes regarding the distribution of assets after death. Choosing an executor can be a difficult decision...