Advanced care directives outline your wishes about healthcare decisions when you become incapable of communicating them. For most people, these directives come into play when they reach an advanced age or become seriously ill or injured. Nevertheless, advanced care...
Estate Planning
5 essential people you should have in your last will
Creating a will involves more than just deciding who gets what. You want to ensure your loved ones remain protected and your wishes get carried out exactly as you planned. Aside from naming your beneficiaries, there are specific key roles your will should address to...
How can you avoid probate in Michigan?
Losing a loved one is hard for those left behind. It’s an emotionally challenging time when everything can feel overwhelming. Sadly, the probate process usually adds a new layer of stress during this time. Any delays or issues your loved ones might encounter make...
What to do once appointed as an executor in Michigan
Taking on the role of executor in Michigan is a big responsibility. Follow these steps to carry out your duties effectively: Secure the estate Your first task is to protect the deceased's property. This means locking up the home, safeguarding valuables and informing...
What are the key steps to setting up a pet trust?
Many pet owners want to ensure their furry companions receive proper care if they pass away or become incapacitated. Including a pet trust in an estate plan provides peace of mind and clear instructions for a pet's future care. Here are some key legal considerations...
What are Lady Bird Deeds in Michigan?
A Lady Bird Deed allows you to name a beneficiary who will automatically inherit your property upon death. Unlike a traditional life estate deed, you retain complete control over the property during your lifetime. You can sell, mortgage or change the beneficiary...
The top priorities when you start your estate plan
Starting an estate plan can feel overwhelming, but you do not need to handle it all at once. It is often better to focus on key priorities that lay a strong foundation for the future. By addressing these main priorities, you can protect your assets and take the first...
Estate planning for children with special needs
Taking care of a child with special needs is a lifelong challenge. However, there is an inevitable moment for every parent who has such a child where they come to terms with the fact that they might not be there for their child forever. While this may be hard to think...
3 cost-saving probate strategies for Michigan executors
When a family member passes away, settling their estate can be an emotional and complex process for the family they leave behind. Probate, with its emotional and financial challenges, can feel like the last thing you want to address, especially during times of grief....
How a special needs trust can help you provide for your loved ones
If you have a loved one who is dealing with disabilities and health conditions, you likely wish to take care of their needs and improve their quality of life. There is one estate planning tool that can help you fulfill this goal. The special needs trust offers unique...