Today, most of us use computers, phones, and tablets to send messages, check in with friends, carry out important financial transactions, watch TV and listen to music, and even to conduct business. Case in point? Odds are very good that you’re reading this post on a smartphone, tablet, or computer screen right now! 

The more we all use technology in our everyday lives, the more digital assets we create. Have you ever thought about what might happen to your digital assets when you’re no longer around to manage them? What do you want to happen to your social media and email accounts? Who do you want having the log-in information for your online financial accounts? How will you ensure that your loved ones are able to download precious family photos and videos? 

Just as it’s important to have a plan for your tangible property, real estate, and financial accounts, it is essential to consider what will happen to this ever-growing list of digital assets should you become incapacitated or pass way. 

For this reason, it is crucial that you discuss a plan for your digital and hybrid assets with your estate planning attorney. A knowledgeable and savvy lawyer can assist you in identifying your most prominent digital assets, while also taking care to ensure that you maintain control over these important accounts and profiles after you’re gone — such as determining how these assets will be managed, and who will be able to access them. 

Let’s dig into a few major FAQs about estate planning for digital assets:

“What Digital Assets Should Be Considered for Estate Planning Purposes?”

Today, nearly every facet of our day-to-day lives can be performed and managed online. As a result, a digital asset could refer to any number of things — ranging from media files to social networking accounts. You may also have some important estate planning assets that could be considered “hybrid” assets, such as an investment account that you generally access and manage online. 

Curious what might fall into this broad and ever-expanding category? Here are a few of the common digital assets that you may already own: 

• Social media accounts
• Email accounts
• “Paperless” online banking and investment accounts
• Online subscription accounts
• Website domains
• Cryptocurrencies (such as Bitcoin)
• Digital photos, vidoes, and other files stored in the cloud or on Dropbox
• Income-generating content published on the web (such as blog posts, written articles, or videos)
• Digital copyrights and trademarks

If you do not make a plan for these assets, they could become incredibly difficult for your loved ones to access when you are gone. Issues like lost passwords, data encryption, and byzantine platform terms of service agreements can make accessing, closing, or transferring these common assets a nightmare. 

“Does Michigan Have Any Laws Governing Access to a Decedent’s Digital Assets?”

Michigan is among the sizable group of states that has enacted a version of the Revised Uniform Fiduciary Digital Assets Act, which governs access to an individual’s digital assets when the account owner dies or becomes unable to manage them. 

Enacted in 2016, Michigan’s Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act defines a digital asset as “an electronic record in which a user has a right or interest.” The person or company that “carries, maintains, processes, receives, or stores a digital asset of a user” is known as a digital custodian. This law provides for access to a decedent or protected individual’s digital assets by a fiduciary, such as a personal representative, trustee, conservator, or agent under power of attorney.

Broadly speaking, the Fiduciary Access to Digital Assets Act helps extend the power of a fiduciary to encompass the management of digital assets. While the act allows fiduciaries to manage digital property such as computer files, web domains, and cryptocurrencies, it largely restricts a fiduciary’s access to electronic communications unless the original user gives their fiduciary access through a will, trust, power of attorney, or other written mechanism. The act also specifies what information a fiduciary may need to present to a digital custodian in order to gain access to digital assets,  as well the requirements and procedures for disclosure by a digital custodian. 

If you are interested in how this act may affect you as a testator, personal representative, or trustee, do not hesitate to contact a shrewd and savvy estate planning attorney in your area. An estate planning lawyer can help you understand everything that goes into creating a functional estate plan that includes your digital assets.

 If you are acting on behalf of an estate, an estates and probate attorney can provide informed professional advice to guide you through the legal process, explain your legal obligations as a fiduciary, and help you discharge your duties in an efficient and expedient manner to avoid personal liability.

“How Can I Make a Plan for My Digital Assets?”

So, what goes into addressing your digital assets within your comprehensive estate plan? Here are a few important steps to keep in mind as you move forward:

• Inventory. One of the most important steps you can take is to thoughtfully and comprehensively list your digital assets. Create a list of online accounts and profiles that your loved ones need to know, as well as information for how to access them. Consider backing up cloud-based data on a physical hard drive, or using an online password manager to keep your records organized. Make sure your inventory is safely stored with your attorney or in a secure place — but take care to ensure that your fiduciaries will be able to access it when the time comes. Learn more about safeguarding your estate plan here. 
• Plan. Once you have gotten a handle on your digital assets, talk with your attorney about who you want to be able to have access, and what steps you want them to be able to take to manage, transfer, or close the accounts. For instance, you may want to have your social profiles deleted, or empower your fiduciary to change the passwords for your business accounts. Look into the terms of service and rules for the various online platforms you use, and consider looking into online tools that can streamline communication between your fiduciary and any digital custodians. 
• Execute. Work closely with your attorney to draw up will, trust, and power of attorney documents that thoughtfully address your estate’s digital needs. For instance, you may specify whether or not you want to grant your personal representative full or partial access to a specific account. An attorney can help assure that your language is clear, precise, actionable, and effective. 

Have Any More Questions About Michigan Estate Planning and Probate? We Are Here For You

There is no reason to put off taking care of those you love and that which you have worked hard for. 

Looking for guidance on the many moving pieces that go into successful estate and incapacity planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianship, and conservatorship? Your Michigan probate attorney Dean E. Patrick is here to help.

Mr. Patrick is a licensed Michigan lawyer specializing in estates and probate law. He has helped hundreds with their estate planning needs, giving him the necessary knowledge to provide unparalleled legal advice and assistance that can make your life a little easier.

If you have questions or are curious about how to move forward, contact our offices at (248) 663-2566 or reach out online to set up your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Will and trust contests can often cause estate administration to drag on — while pitting family members against each other. 

To minimize the likelihood of contests during probate, one action that you may take as part of your estate plan is to add a “no-contest clause” to your will and/or trust. 

Also known as a “penalty clause,” “in terrorem clause,” or “terror clause,” this language is intended to deter beneficiaries from contesting the will — lest they lose their entire inheritance altogether. 

Let’s explore the ins and outs of no-contest clauses in more depth: 

What Is a No-Contest or Penalty Clause?

A no-contest clause is language inserted into a will or trust that is meant to discourage named beneficiaries from filing a contest or other proceeding against the validity of the will or trust. Broadly speaking, this clause generally states that any beneficiary who files a proceeding against the provisions of a will or trust will forfeit their right to receive any distribution at all from the estate. 

These penalty clauses are often called “terror” clauses for that reason — because they are meant to strike true fear into the hearts of any disgruntled beneficiaries, and prevent them from taking action against the estate! 

Below is a broad and general example of sample language that may be representative of a no-contest clause for a will, courtesy of the legal resources site NOLO. If you are considering implementing a no-contest clause to your will or trust, it is imperative that you consult with an experienced estate planning attorney in Michigan, who can help you understand the specific language that should be used based on your individual circumstances.

If any beneficiary under this will seeks to obtain in any proceeding in any court an adjudication that this will or any of its provisions is void, or seeks otherwise to void, nullify, or set aside this will or any of its provisions, then the right of that person to take any interest given to him or her by this will shall be determined as it would have been determined had such person predeceased the execution of this will without issue.

A no-contest clause may be worth considering if you are worried about a devisee or beneficiary contesting your will or trust. For instance, if you were to distribute your property in such a way that one child stood to inherit substantially more than his or her sibling, which could potentially be viewed as unfair, a penalty clause could be used to deter the sibling who inherited less from considering mounting a costly and time-consuming challenge. 

With that said, there are limits to what a no-contest clause can achieve. Most importantly, penalty clauses are unenforceable if the court determines that “probable cause” for implementing proceedings exists (we will explore this in more depth below). What’s more, terror clauses are generally only applicable to named beneficiaries — meaning that omitted children, heirs, or other interested persons may still wish to pursue a contest. No-contest clauses may also fail to act as a deterrent against beneficiaries who receive so little from the estate that they feel as though they have nothing left to lose, so to speak. 

While a no-contest clause can give your estate some protection, it is only one of many tools that you can use as part of your estate plan. It is important to discuss all of your options with a skilled and experienced Michigan attorney, who can help you create a comprehensive estate plan that takes appropriate steps to safeguard your assets, keep you in control, and ensure that you achieve all of your most pressing goals.

Will a No-Contest Clause Always Be Enforced?

Michigan law makes clear that a penalty clause in a will or trust is unenforceable “if probable cause exists” for instituting proceedings. 

What does this mean? Broadly speaking, the court will determine if there is probable cause based on the specific circumstances and facts of the case. Michigan case law offers some clarity: 

Probable cause exists when, at the time of instituting the proceeding, there was evidence that would lead a reasonable person, properly informed and advised, to conclude that there was a substantial likelihood that the challenge would be successful.

What Constitutes Probable Cause for a Will or Trust Contest?

Generally speaking, it is not enough to feel that the decedent was unfair in their choices. Instead, a will or trust challenge must be based on evidence. Typically, proceedings against the validity of a will or trust may be raised due to issues including: 

• Lack of Testamentary Intent or Capacity. In order for a will to be valid in Michigan, the testator must have sufficient mental capacity at the time of its creation. 

• Improper Execution or Revocation. An individual may have grounds to contest a will or trust if a significant mistake or error was made when the documents were being created. A will may also be contested and ultimately rendered invalid if it can be shown that there is another valid will or codicil executed on a later date, which would replace the terms of the earlier document. 

• Undue Influence or Duress. A contestant may have grounds for a dispute if they suspect that a will or trust was created under undue influence or duress — which might include physical abuse, threats of violence, blackmail, separating the decedent from their family, or even withholding food or medication. 

• Fraud, Forgery, or Misrepresentation. A contestant may have grounds if they believe that the testator or settlor was deliberately tricked into signing a document — for instance, if someone lied to the decedent, telling them they were signing another document instead of a will, or misrepresenting what the language in the document actually says. A contest on the grounds of forgery may apply if someone attempts to create documents under the testator’s name, or if signatures from witnesses have been falsified. 

Get the Experienced Insight of a Michigan Estates and Probates Attorney

Whether you believe you have grounds to challenge the validity of a will or trust; you are put in the position of defending a decedent’s will or trust from contests; or you are interested in learning more about how to utilize no-contest clauses in your estate plan, it is important that you bring your questions to an experienced and knowledgeable local probates and estates attorney as quickly as possible. 

The many steps involved with contesting or defending a will or trust in court can be complex and time-intensive. A lawyer skilled in probate litigation can help you understand all of your options and navigate through the probate courts with the guidance and advice your matter requires —from doing research and determining the validity of the contest, to filing all of the proper paperwork at the right time, to aggressively representing your interests in the courtroom should it become necessary.

Whether you are a spouse, child, beneficiary, creditor, or personal representative involved in a contested probate matter, you can rely on our firm to aggressively advocate for your position. Want to minimize the likelihood for family disagreements and contests when you’re gone? An estate planning attorney can ensure that you get answers to the questions you have concerning wills, trusts, and powers of attorney so that you can choose which tools are best suited for your individual circumstances. 

About The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.

At The Patrick & Associates, PLLC., we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies. We will be flexible in order to accommodate your needs, and we work hard to discuss these difficult matters in terms that are easy to comprehend. With staff available 24 hours a day, we’re also never far from your questions and concerns. 

If you have further questions or are looking for representation as you navigate no-contest clauses, will and trust disputes, or any other matter that forces you into Michigan’s tricky probate court system, we are here for you. Don’t hesitate to call our Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 to set up your initial consultation. You may also click here to get in touch online.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Estate planning is one of the most powerful and important steps you can take to prepare for the future — and it’s crucial to make sure that no critical step gets overlooked, forgotten, or misplaced along the way.

Unfortunately, many people end up committing one or mistakes or mishaps during the estate planning process, which could jeopardize or invalidate their entire plan — and end up making things a lot more difficult for themselves and their loved ones in the future.

Working with an experienced and professional estate planning attorney is one way to make sure you dot every “i” and cross every “t,” so that you can move forward with confidence. Here are seven all-too-common Michigan estate planning mistakes to discuss with your lawyer:

1.) Starting Too Late

The only things that go away with time are snowflakes, youth, and opportunities. With estate planning, you have an opportunity to plan for yourself and your loved ones — and it’s important that you don’t let it pass!

A 2020 poll cited by CNBC suggests that about 62% of Americans say that they do not have a will. A 2020 report from Caring.com, meanwhile, indicates that less than one-third of all Americans (32%) have any estate planning documents in place. What’s more, Caring.com data suggests that the number of older and middle-age adults with estate planning documents actually fell by 20% and 25% between 2019 and 2020.

When we pass on, the assets we have acquired throughout our lifetimes will remain,  and they will be reallocated. The question is: Will you have a say in the matter? 

If you do not have an estate plan in place, you are giving up control. If you do not make a plan, the state of Michigan will create one for you. Michigan’s rules of intestate succession are very strict, which could result in your assets being distributed in ways that you would not have wanted. Meanwhile, failing to make a plan could cause the estate administration process to be significantly longer, more costly, and more contentious for your surviving loved ones. 

2.) Forgetting to Plan for Probate and Estate Administration

Probate is often used as a catch-all term to refer to the legal process a decedent’s estate must succumb to in the courts. Here in Michigan, the ins and outs of the estate administration process can be complex, costly, and time-intensive — particularly if a will contest or similar issue arises after your passing. 

Fortunately, there are many important steps you can take proactively, to help ensure that you have made probate as smooth and simple as possible for your loved ones. For instance, you can utilize a number of different mechanisms to transfer many of your most important and valuable assets outside of probate, including: 

• Trusts. Trusts offer numerous estate planning advantages, including the capability to help many types of assets — such as investments and securities, tangible personal property, bank accounts, business interests, and real estate  — bypass probate. The inter-vivos or revocable living trust is one of the most popular types of trusts in the United States, in part because it can help avoid probate and help families avoid court fees and stringent oversight. Learn more about using trusts as part of your estate plan here. 

• Beneficiary Designations. Retirement accounts, life insurance policies, bank accounts, annuities, pension plans, investment accounts, and securities can be set up with a designated beneficiary, known as a “pay on death” or “transfer on death” beneficiary. When executed properly, this designation allows for the assets in an account or proceeds of a policy to transfer directly to the named beneficiaries upon the death of the account owner or policy holder, outside of probate. 

• Jointly Owned Assets. Full ownership of real property owned through joint tenancy with rights of survivorship automatically transfers to the surviving co-owner upon the passing of the decedent, outside of the oversight of the probate courts. Property that is owned by married couples who share ownership as tenants by the entireties also transfers outside of probate. Joint tenancy designations can allow you to avoid probate without increasing your liability. Learn more about joint tenancy and tenancy by the entireties here. 

Taking steps to help assets avoid probate can have numerous positive benefits for yourself, your estate, and your family and friends, including: 

• Peace of mind knowing you minimized the stress of your circumstances for your family
• Assurance that your partner will the assets and control you want them to have
• Allowing for immediate distribution of your assets
• Maximizing the assets available to your beneficiaries when you have passed
• Minimizing or eliminating the cost of probate fees

An experienced legal professional can help you coordinate the use of probate and nonprobate transfers as part of your estate plan.

3.) Failing to Properly Fund Your Revocable Living Trust

Funding a trust is just as important as creating it in the first place. Too often, though, people overlook this important step! 

Once you have set up your trust, it is very important to re-title your chosen assets into the trust, or this incredibly useful mechanism will remain an empty vessel. Remember that assets not properly titled into the name of your living trust will be subject to probate as part of your estate. 

An expert in estate planning and trust law like our own Dean E. Patrick can not only assist you with the creation of the trust, but also ensure that all legal formalities are addressed so that your trust is completed to your specifications. In addition to selecting and re-titling the assets you want to place into your trust, this might also include naming a successor trustee to assume responsibility for managing and distributing trust assets when you are no longer able to do so. 

4.) Not Planning Ahead for Incapacity

While it is never pleasant to think about, the reality is that no one is immune from suffering an accident or falling victim to an unexpected illness. An important part of estate planning that many people forget about is making plans for incapacity, including naming the person you want making decisions for you when you are unable to do so for yourself. 

If you do not take precautions when you have the chance, your loved ones could be subject to the arduous and costly process of living probate. 

Even if you do not have many high value assets, it is important to plan ahead for the possibility of incapacity; the experiences of 2020 are a painful reminder of that fact. One of the most important steps you can take to prepare for incapacity is to utilize durable powers of attorney. 

A durable power of attorney is a legal document that gives someone of your choice (known as your agent, advocate, or attorney-in-fact) the right to handle your decisions if you become incapacitated. With a durable power of attorney, you don’t give up any control as long as you are capable. In Michigan, you can name a power of attorney for health care, a power of attorney for mental health, and a power of attorney for financial matters. 

5.) Forgetting to Review or Update Your Plan Over Time

The only constant in life is change. For this reason, it is important to remember that creating an estate plan is not a one-time, “set it and forget it” process. Instead, it is crucial to regularly reevaluate and, if needed, update or revise your estate plan over time. 

The reality is that no one knows for sure what’s in store for the future. Your named beneficiaries might predecease you; you could go through a divorce or estrangement that changes your personal relationships with your family members; you might move to a new state, acquire valuable new assets, or make new investments. Things outside of your control with estate planning implications might change over time, as well, such as state and federal tax laws. 

Depending on your circumstances, there are many steps you can take to stay on top of things, including: 

• Regularly reviewing your beneficiary designations
• Naming contingent beneficiaries 
• Reviewing your will and trust paperwork and replacing documents, as needed
• Reviewing your powers of attorney 
• Reviewing your guardianship, conservatorship nominations

A knowledgeable local attorney can make sure to keep things on track. A legal professional can help you to set a schedule to revisit your estate plan, while considering all the unique variables of your situation. When it’s necessary to make changes, an attorney’s shrewd guidance can help you to ensure that you update or replace your documents correctly, to make sure that things are as clear and direct as possible for your personal representative and trustee in the future.

6.) Failing to Plan for Minors or Beneficiaries WIth Disabilities

It is natural to want to make sure your loved ones are well cared-for when you are no longer around. But do you have a specific plan to make it happen? Estate planning is a powerful way to provide for the people who matter most to you. But it is important to be thorough and thoughtful, especially if you are planning ahead for minor children or adult beneficiaries who happen to be physically or mentally disabled. 

One of the most important considerations when creating a will is nominating a guardian, who will become responsible for the care and custody of your minor children when you are no longer around. An attorney can help you consider your options and make the best selection for your circumstances. 

Meanwhile, you can utilize your estate plan to help make sure your loved ones receive crucial assets and funds — while making sure that inheritance is not detrimental to your beneficiaries down the line. For instance, you can utilize trust provisions to help ensure that funds meant for your minor children are not squandered by a guardian, or that children are not able to access funds until a certain date. Similarly, a trust can help you provide for your loved ones with special needs, particularly if they are receiving government benefits that might be affected by receiving an inheritance. You can also include spendthrift provisions, to help prevent beneficiaries from wasting their trust assets from excessive spending. 

7.) Not Working With an Experienced Professional

As we often say: When you have a foot problem, you go to the podiatrist. When you have a heart problem, you go to the cardiologist. When you are forced into the probate court or want to create a comprehensive estate plan that will take care of your assets and provide for your loved ones, you need to go to an established probate and estate planning attorney.

An attorney is uniquely qualified and capable to help you consider your specialized circumstances, and create the estate plan that will best suit your goals. A knowledgeable legal professional can help you understand how all of the important pieces of an estate plan may work together, while also getting a handle on the financial and tax implications of estate planning and inheritance, and how they might apply in your situation. As you create estate planning documents, an attorney can help ensure that the language is clear and concise, and that every formality is executed fully and properly — so that you can get some well-deserved peace of mind. 

Have Any More Questions About Michigan Estate Planning?

At the Law Office of Dean E. Patrick, our goal is to provide you with only the best professional legal services available in Michigan. Work with us and you have our sincere promise to carefully plan and manage each and every step of your legal matter from start to finish.

When it is time to take care of your estate planning needs, get the answers, insight, and guidance you and your beneficiaries deserve. Whether you are trying to avoid probate with a trust, want to make sure your assets are protected and transferred according to your wishes, or want to plan for incapacity with powers of attorney, we can custom tailor a solution to suit your needs.

Mr. Patrick is a licensed Michigan lawyer specializing in estates and probate law. He has helped hundreds with their estate planning needs, giving him the necessary knowledge to provide unparalleled legal advice and assistance that can make your life a little easier.

If you have questions or are curious about how to move forward, contact our offices at (248) 663-2566 or reach out online to set up your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

When someone passes away, their assets must be collected and distributed and their estate must be guided through Michigan’s probate courts. The personal representative is the person tasked with this important responsibility, which typically includes:

• Marshalling the assets of the estate and determining their value
• Paying charges from the estate (including the decedent’s debts and final expenses, including taxes and amounts owed to creditors)
• Distributing the remaining assets to the appropriate estate beneficiaries, in line with the decedent’s wishes and all relevant local laws

As they discharge their duties, a personal representative is held to a very high standard of conduct. They are expected to be impartial and fair, executing a number of tasks at a very high level while putting the needs of the estate above their own. 

With all this being said, it can be frustrating and frightening to watch as an appointed personal representative fails to execute their duties properly and efficiently. 

What options are available to an heir, devisee, child, or creditor when they notice a personal representative delaying the estate administration process, mismanaging estate assets, committing an act of self-dealing, or, worst of all, taking an action that actively goes against the best interests of the estate? 

Michigan law offers several avenues for recourse – from restraining the personal representative from taking a specific action, to having their appointment terminated by the court. 

If you are in a position where you are considering challenging or removing a personal representative, one of the most important steps you can take is to consult with an experienced probate and estates attorney. If you suspect wrongdoing or need to act quickly, do not hesitate to contact our office at (248) 663-2566 to discuss your circumstances in more detail. 

Let’s explore three avenues that an “interested person” may use to challenge or remove a personal representative in Michigan:

Demanding a Bond

One step that a person with a significant financial interest in the estate may take is to make a written demand that a personal representative give bond. 

The demand must be filed with the register, and a copy must be sent to the personal representative if they have already been appointed. Bond is required when such a demand is filed, but the requirement ceases if the person demanding bond ceases to be interested in the estate, or if the bond can be excused for another valid reason.

After receipt of notice and until the filing of the bond or cessation of the requirement of bond, the personal representative must refrain from exercising any powers of their fiduciary office, except as necessary to preserve the estate. If the personal representative fails to meet a requirement of their bond, this is cause for removal and a successor personal representative may be appointed. 

Petitioning for an Order Restraining Personal Representative

An interested person may petition the court to file a temporary order restraining a personal representative from performing a specified act of administration, disbursement, or distribution, or from exercising a power or discharging a duty of their office. An interested person may also ask the court to make another order to secure proper performance of the personal representative’s duty. In either situation, it must appear to the court that the personal representative otherwise may take some action that would unreasonably jeopardize the interests of the petitioner, or of another person interested in the estate. 

For any petition for an order restraining a personal representative, the court shall set a hearing date no more than 14 days after the date of the issuance of the temporary order, unless the parties agree otherwise. Notice shall be given as the court directs to the personal representative, to the personal representative’s attorney of record, and to any parties named defendant in the petition.

Petitioning for Termination of Appointment

An interested person may petition for the removal of a personal representative for cause at any time. When such a petition is filed, the court will fix a time and place for a hearing, and notice must be given to the personal representative and any other parties as ordered by the court. 

Broadly speaking, the court may choose to remove a personal representative under any of the following circumstances:

• Removal will be in the best interests of the estate 
• It is shown that the personal representative or the person who sought the personal representative’s appointment intentionally misrepresented material facts in a proceeding leading to the appointment
• The personal representative disregarded a court order; became incapable of discharging the duties of office; mismanaged the estate; or failed to perform a duty pertaining to the office

Upon receipt of notice of removal proceedings, the personal representative cannot act except to account, to correct maladministration, or preserve the estate. If removal is ultimately ordered, the court shall also direct by order the disposition of the property remaining in the name of, or under the control of, the personal representative being removed. 

If the exercise or failure to exercise a power concerning the estate is deemed improper, the personal representative may be liable to interested persons for damage or loss resulting from breach of fiduciary duty.

Importantly, however,  if a personal representative defends or prosecutes a proceeding in good faith, whether successful or not, the personal representative is entitled to receive from the estate necessary expenses and disbursements including reasonable attorney fees incurred.

Probate Litigation Is Complex. You Don’t Have to Go Through It Alone

Coming to terms with a loved one’s passing is a difficult and emotional process – and one that is only made more fraught when you need to deal with intricate legal matters at the same time.

Probate litigation can cause emotions to run high, and lead to intense family arguments. Litigation will also require an understanding of extremely complex legal matters, as well as the specific laws for your state and county, and how they may apply based on your unique situation.

Throughout this trying time, it’s important to have an experienced and professional advocate on your side, one who can patiently help you understand the ins and outs of the probate process in your area.

Whether you are a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, an omitted child, or a widow/widower, a probate litigation attorney in your area can help address your questions and navigate the entire process, so that you can secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

If you’re based in Michigan, Attorney Dean E. Patrick can help. Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of probate, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, Dean is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome. 

If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, you can count on our firm to work hard to accomplish your goals – with the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism your matter deserves at every step of the way.

Ready to keep the conversation going? The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.. is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. Contact Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 or click here to arrange your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Setting up your estate plan isn’t always a pleasant thing to think about; however, it’s a very important step to take when you have the opportunity.  

Often, taking time to plan for what will happen to the people who matter most and the assets you’ve spent a lifetime acquiring will include considering who you will entrust with important responsibilities when you are gone or unable to communicate on your own behalf — such as naming who you want to oversee the administration of your estate and any trusts, or who you want making your financial and healthcare decisions as a conservator or agent. 

These are important decisions, which should not be taken lightly. There are a lot of important factors to weigh as you consider who to name as your personal representative, trustee, agent, or conservator — including whether or not you should consider choosing a trusted friend or family member or a professional fiduciary to act on your behalf. 

What Is a Fiduciary? What Does It Mean for Your Michigan Estate Plan?

Black’s Law Dictionary defines a fiduciary as a person “invested with rights and powers to be exercised for the benefit of another person.” Generally, a fiduciary is entrusted with the care of property or funds, and is required to act with “scrupulous good faith and candor.” 

In essence, a fiduciary is obligated to put the needs of the estate or person they are representing above their own. Under Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code, this includes acting with undivided loyalty; impartiality between heirs, devisees, and beneficiaries; and care and prudence in all actions. A fiduciary must also commit to the segregation of assets held in the fiduciary capacity, and abide by Michigan’s prudent investor rule when applicable. 

As it applies to estate planning and probate law, a “fiduciary” might refer to one of any number of important roles, including but not limited to: 

• Personal Representative. This is the person tasked with guiding your estate through the probate courts, following any directions set down by your will. Their duties might typically include collecting, inventorying, managing, and protecting estate assets; handling creditors and resolving debts of the estate; providing regular reports and accountings; making distributions; and closing the estate. 
• Conservator. A conservator is a person appointed by a court to manage a protected individual’s estate and finances. Conservatorships are established when an individual can no longer effectively manage his or her own property and financial decisions. An individual can request the appointment of a conservator for themselves, if they recognize that they are unable to manage their property and affairs effectively due to age or physical infirmity.
• Trustee. A trustee is the person responsible for managing and distributing any of the assets held in a trust, while also handling several important duties that may arise during the course of trust administration — including overseeing tax filings for the trust and communicating with beneficiaries of the trust. Generally, with a revocable living trust, the person who creates the trust (known as the settlor or grantor), will name themselves as trustee in order to maintain control of their assets for as long as possible, with a successor trustee in place to take over in the event that they can no longer perform the responsibilities for themselves. 
• Agent, advocate, or attorney-in-fact. A power of attorney (POA) is a written instrument that gives legal authority to a third party (known as the agent orattorney-in-fact) to act on the behalf of someone else (known as the principal). In estate planning, the durable power of attorney is a tool that can be used to ensure that someone you trust manages your financial and health care decisions when you can no longer do so. With powers of attorney, you can exert a great deal of control over your chosen agent, granting them broad power to make decisions on your behalf, or limiting their scope to only a few pressing matters.

Choosing a Personal Representative, Trustee, Conservator, or Agent

The individuals nominated to handle your financial and personal decisions will have a real and significant responsibility — and it is important to have someone in place who you trust fully to handle this obligation. 

Often, if you’re married, your spouse is a common first choice to be your personal representative or agent. If you are not married, children or close family are often chosen to handle the responsibility. 

Whomever you choose, it’s important to look for a fiduciary who can fulfill their duties efficiently and effectively. Important attributes for a good candidate include: 

• Trustworthiness
• Previous experience making decisions similar to those they will be faced with
• Being easy to communicate with, as necessary
• Fiscally responsible, so as to handle your financial affairs appropriately
• Living in close proximity to the probate court (depending on the goals of your will)
• Being willing and able to serve.
• Being willing to abide by the wishes and directions that you set forth in your trust, will, or other estate planning documents

What is most important is that the people you select are the best choices for your individual circumstances. This process is not about making people feel equal; it is about ensuring that your wishes will be followed when you no longer have a say in the matter.

When Might You Choose a Professional Fiduciary?

There are also many situations in which people can’t or do not want to rely on family and friends. Perhaps you have a particularly complex estate, and don’t want to burden your loved ones with the responsibility of seeing it through probate. Maybe you do not have strong relationships with your children, or do not have any nearby family members who would be willing or able to serve.

For those who can’t or won’t rely on family and friends, professional fiduciaries are an option worth discussing with your estate planning and probate attorney. 

Opting for a professional to serve as personal representative, trustee, agent, or conservator may be a prudent consideration in situations where you hope to: 

Simplify Things for Your Loved Ones

Losing a loved one is never easy — and it becomes even more difficult when faced with pressing and intricate legal matters at the same time. Estate and trust administration are not always simple and straightforward, and may become burdensome for your loved ones in an already difficult time. Having a trustworthy professional step in can help take some of the responsibilities off of their plate, allowing your loved ones to focus on moving forward, while also making sure your financial and personal matters get the time and attention they truly deserve. 

Minimize the Risk for Family Conflicts

Estate and probate issues can often dredge up old arguments, or create bitter new conflicts among family members. This is a moment when tensions run high. In some cases, choosing one child over another to serve might lead to bitter disputes or lifelong disagreements. Similarly, if you choose two different people to serve as co-agents or co-trustees, they may disagree over key decisions — which could potentially cause the situation to drag out and become even more complex. Having a trusted and experienced professional fiduciary can help make sure that your affairs are handled in line with your wishes and directions, while leaving less room for family divisions. 

Ensure That Matters Are Handled With Impartiality and Expertise

Compared with friends or family members who may have a personal, emotional, or financial investment in your affairs, a professional fiduciary can truly act with objectivity and impartiality — assuring that the actions that they take will be in the best interests of you and your estate, while minimizing the likelihood for harmful mistakes or errors.

A professional fiduciary will have training, experience, and expertise that may help make handling your financial affairs smoother and simpler, particularly when it comes to complex or unexpected obstacles that arise. At the same time, they will likely know how to communicate about these matters efficiently and effectively, giving your loved ones a steady and reliable resource that they can turn to with questions or concerns. 

Maintain Control

What happens if the person who you nominated to serve as a personal representative or conservator predeceases you, or is otherwise unable to accept the responsibilities? In such circumstances, the court would then turn to other relatives, following a set order of priority. Ultimately, this could result in someone that you do not want assuming substantial control over your affairs. 

Naming a professional firm helps minimize the risk of you having to give up control down the line. Similarly, it is extremely common for personal representatives and other fiduciaries to hire attorneys, financial professionals, or other experts to assist with their duties; appointing a professional may help ensure that someone you trust will be able to continue acting on behalf of yourself or your estate. 

Get the Answers You’ve Been Searching for from Michigan’s Probate Experts

If you want to ensure your final wishes are carried out, legal help from our experienced probate and estates attorney Dean E. Patrick can make it happen. Getting guidance from an attorney is the first step in making sure your possessions and the people you care about are taken care of when you’re gone.

In addition to offering probate and estate planning guidance tailored to your unique circumstances, our firm can offer fiduciary services, including but not limited to:

• Professional Trustee
• Professional Conservator
• Professional Agent

Whether you have decided it’s time to plan for your family’s future or you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, you and your family can rest assured knowing that our office is handling your matter with the professionalism and expertise it deserves. 

Our meeting schedules are flexible in order to accommodate your needs, and we work hard to discuss these difficult matters in terms that are easy to comprehend. Our office is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan and our staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to receive phone calls and help you with your legal matters. Do not hesitate to give us a call at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation. 

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

When you pass away, what will happen to the assets you’ve spent a lifetime acquiring? Developing an estate plan is a process that keeps you in control if you become incapacitated, and even when you’re gone. For some people, this may mean taking action to deliberately exclude or disinherit certain individuals from their wills or trusts — including their own adult children. 

It is certainly possible to disinherit a child from your will — provided that the will maker (known as the testator) takes care to use the correct mechanisms and follow all proper legal procedures at every step of the way. With that being said, this is not a decision to be made lightly, and it is one that could ultimately be challenged in court depending on the specifics of your circumstances. Similarly, if you are not careful and deliberate about your actions, the very people you are seeking to exclude may still stand to receive some of your estate through Michigan’s laws of intestate succession or through exempt property rights. 

Why Would Someone Disinherit a Child in Michigan?

Everyone’s circumstances are different, and there are any number of personal reasons why someone may choose to disinherit a child from their will. 

In some cases, it could be due to a poor personal relationship. The simple reality is that family members become estranged all the time, for any number of different reasons — whether because the parent and child have a contentious or difficult relationship, or because the child has deliberately isolated themselves from their family. 

As  Nathan R. Piwowarski once put it succinctly in an article for the Michigan Bar Journal, there may also be practical reasons to disinherit a child:

• The child may have severe debts or problems with creditors, which could immediately impact any funds or property they receive
• The child may have mental illness or addiction, and a distribution could be used to “fund self-destructive behaviors”
• You may have already taken action to provide substantially for your child (or children) outside of probate — perhaps through beneficiary designations, trusts, or lifetime gifts
• The child may be physically, mentally, or developmentally disabled and receiving government benefits; in such a situation, receiving an allowance or inheritance might actually disrupt their ability to access important programs like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income

Disinheriting a Child in Michigan: Important Considerations

All told, if you are weighing the possibility of disinheriting a child from your estate in Michigan, there are a number of important considerations to keep in mind and explore with the insight and guidance of an experienced and knowledgeable probate and estates attorney. 

Michigan law makes provisions for children born or adopted after the execution of the will

One important thing to remember is that Michigan law does make some provisions for omitted children. Specifically, pursuant to MCL 700.2302, if a testator fails to provide in his or her will for a child born or adopted after the execution of the will, then the omitted after-born or after-adopted child is entitled to receive a share unless: 

• It appears from the will that the omission was intentional
• The testator provided for the omitted after-born or after-adopted child by transfer outside the will, and the parent’s intent for a substitute transfer can be established or reasonably inferred 

In cases where the omitted child does stand to inherit, the share of the omitted after-born or after-adopted child would consist of: 

• An intestate share, if the decedent had no other living children
• A reasonable share equal to that devised to the decedent’s other children. Under EPIC, in abating the devises of the other children, the court shall “preserve to the maximum extent possible the character of the testamentary plan adopted by the testator.”

What’s more, if a testator fails to provide for a living child in their will because they believe the child to be deceased, then the child is entitled to share in the estate as if they were an omitted after-born or after-adopted child.

Can children be excluded from taking a share of exempt property?

It is important to remember that Michigan law makes allowances for spouses and children to hold onto some modest property, to help ensure that they do not become impoverished due to the passing of a loved one — even if it may mean somewhat limiting or overriding “testamentary consultationdom,” as the Michigan Bar Journal puts it. 

One of the most important things to keep in mind for the issues we are discussing here is exempt property, as described in MCL 700.2404.

This provision states that a decedent’s surviving spouse is entitled to “household furniture, automobiles, furnishings, appliances, and personal effects from the estate up to a value not to exceed $10,000.00* more than the amount of any security interests to which the property is subject.”

*Adjusted to $16,000 as of 2020, as provided in MCL 700.1210; you can find a chart of relevant cost of living adjustments from 2001 through 2020 here, courtesy of the Wayne County Probate Court. An experienced and knowledgeable probate and estates attorney can also help you determine the most up-to-date figures.

If there is no surviving spouse, then the decedent’s children may be entitled jointly to the same value, unless they are specifically excluded. 

Rights to exempt property and assets needed to make up a deficiency of exempt property have priority over all claims against the estate, except as necessary to permit payment of administration costs and expenses, reasonable funeral and burial expenses, the homestead allowance, and the family allowance. Exempt property rights are in addition to a benefit or share passing to the surviving spouse or children by the decedent’s will, unless otherwise provided, by intestate succession, or by elective share. 

These provisions were famously challenged in the case In re Jajuga Estate, in which the Michigan Court of Appeals ultimately determined that the decedent’s children should receive exempt property from the estate, even though her will explicitly disinherited them. 

This led to 2018 PA 143, additional language added to the statute making it clear that a decedent may exclude one or more of the their children from receiving exempt property or assets by:

• Expressly stating by will that the child takes nothing, or the child takes an amount of $10.00 or less from the estate 
• Expressly stating by will that the child is not to receive exempt property under this section.

The Importance of Working With an Experienced Michigan Estate Planning and Probate Attorney

In short? As with so many other matters relating to estate planning and probate, attempting to exclude a child for any reason can become very complicated, very quickly. 

As Piwowarski writes for the Michigan Bar Journal: 

[W]hile 2018 PA 143 fixed what was broken, it did not eliminate the need for nuance and close familiarity with the EPIC when preparing, administering, and litigating wills and trusts.

It is important to have a thorough understanding of all of the elements that may go into a Michigan estate plan and how they may be used together — including both testamentary and nontestamentary transfers. It is also critical to receive insight and guidance tailored to the unique specifics of your situation.

A probate and estates attorney can help address your questions and navigate the process from beginning to end, so that you can secure the best possible outcome for your circumstances, whatever they may be.

If you’re based in Michigan, Attorney Dean E. Patrick can help you plan for the future through estate planning — while also gaining a better understanding of how your loved ones may be impacted throughout the probate and estate administration process. 

Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of Michigan probate, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, he is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome, whether you are a testator, a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, an omitted child, or a widow/widower.

If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, our entire firm will work hard to accomplish your goals – with the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism that your matter deserves at every step of the way. 

Ready to keep the conversation going? The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.. is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. You may click here to arrange your initial consultation or call us at (248) 663-2566 today.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 own, without having to involve professionals.

Most people associate DIY with homeowners researching solutions, buying their own tools, and getting to work making fixes and repairs around the house. Other people bring the DIY spirit to cooking and crafting, looking to recreate their favorite items at home or on a limited budget. Others still try to take the DIY spirit one step forward — into more complex matters like estate planning. 

The Dangers of DIY Estate Planning

It’s easy to see the appeal of the “DIY” spirit. When you fly solo, you get the opportunity to do things your way, and potentially control your costs along the way. With that said, most people realize that there are crucial limits to what can actually be done via DIY methods.  Around the home, for instance, most people acknowledge the importance of bringing on a professional to deal with a house’s electrical or HVAC systems. 

Similarly, while some might be tempted by the allure of DIY estate planning, the reality is that going it alone will not be the most efficient, productive, or cost-effective path forward for the vast majority of people. The documents and processes involved in estate and incapacity planning are complex. Impersonal online tools and estate planning services will never be a substitute for the personable, hands-on expertise provided by an experienced estates and probate attorney. 

As the American Bar Association (ABA) put it in a writing:

Those who seek to replace proper professional advice with a do-it-yourself online document in complex fields like estate planning should understand the effects of their actions. One should bear in mind that even those with fairly sophisticated skills think twice before venturing beyond their area of expertise.

As we often say: When you have a foot problem, you go to the podiatrist. When you have a heart problem, you go to the cardiologist. When you are forced into the probate court or want to create a comprehensive estate plan that will take care of your assets and provide for your loved ones, you need to go to an established probate and estate planning attorney.

What Is Estate Planning, and Why Is It Important?

Over the course of a lifetime, we all acquire assets. When we pass on, those assets remain and they will be reallocated. The question is: Will you have a say in the matter?

Estate planning is the process that gives you a say. If you become incapacitated, and even when you’re gone, estate planning keeps you in control, through any number of different tools and mechanisms —  including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. 

Whether you are single, married, or cohabitating; just starting a family or moving into retirement, estate planning is a beneficial step you can take to prepare yourself and your loved ones for the future. Having a thorough and effective estate plan in place can help to: 

• Assure that your assets will be distributed in a manner appropriate for your circumstances 
• Ensure that someone you can rely on is appointed to handle your assets and affairs, and that your partner gets the assets and control you want them to have
• Assure inheritance will not become a detriment to your beneficiaries
• Minimize disagreements and conflicts among your family after you’re gone
• Reduce or eliminate certain costs, including estate taxes and probate fees
• Direct how you will be treated if you became incapacitated
• Maximize the assets available to your beneficiaries when you have passed 
• Streamline the probate process, and allow for more immediate distribution of your assets
• Assure your children will have a guardian of your choosing if you are unable to raise them
• Provide you with peace of mind knowing you minimized the stress of your circumstances for your family.

The only things that go away with time are snowflakes, youth, and opportunities. By creating an estate plan now, you have an opportunity to plan for yourself and your loved ones in the future. 

With that said, it’s also important to make sure that you approach estate planning with the right mindset — and the right level of attention and support. 

As the ABA notes, some people consider DIY estate planning sites and forms because they want to avoid going to a lawyer, or because they wish to save money. 

However, the long-term costs of turning to such a service could ultimately outweigh the short-term benefits — especially if your incomplete or inaccurate estate planning documents lead to bitter family conflicts, lengthy estate administration issues, or even complex and costly litigation. 

Instead of simplifying the probate process and making things easier for your loved ones, a less-than-stellar estate plan could cause the process to drag on and become more complicated and time-intensive. Perhaps worst of all, your wishes may not actually be carried out — meaning that important decisions about the disposition of your assets could be left to Michigan’s laws of intestate succession.

As you weigh all of your options, here are a few more questions worth evaluating and considering for yourself:

Do you understand all of the pieces that go into a Michigan estate plan?

As author Frank Addessi put it in an article for SmartAsset:

Estate planning, whether DIY or professional, does not actually include an estate plan. As funny as that may sound, there is no such thing as an actual estate plan. Estate planning is about coordinating a collection of documents from wills to trusts.

When it comes to creating a plan that will protect your property and loved ones in the event of your incapacitation or death, there are many moving parts and instruments to understand — including wills, trusts, powers of attorney for health and finances, guardianships, and conservatorships. Which instruments to use (and how those instruments can be used) will ultimately depend on the unique specifics of your circumstances.

Unlike a fill-in-the-blanks form, an attorney can help you to truly understand all of your options; make sure that you’ve fully considered every decision that may apply based on your circumstances; and take care to ensure that all of the necessary documents are executed properly. 

For example, working with an experienced attorney can help ensure that your will meets all of the requirements for probate, while minimizing the likelihood for disputes or contests from other parties; or that a trust is set up to achieve your specific goals, while making sure that all legal formalities have been addressed. Meanwhile, an attorney can also provide guidance when it comes to nonprobate assets that must still be considered as part of an overall estate plan, such as jointly owned assets, or financial accounts and securities with beneficiary designations. 

Will your plan be able to stand the test of time?

The reality is that estate planning documents might not take effect for years and years. And ultimately, they will generally be executed when you no longer have an active voice in the matter. As the ABA puts it: 

A person who drafts his own Will must bear in mind that the critical test of his efforts will occur after his death.  At that point, his voice has been forever silenced.  If he does prepare his Will on his own, it’s likely no one — or at least no person who is not seen as biased due to his financial interest in the outcome — will be able to explain his intentions.

A knowledgeable and skilled estate planning attorney can help ensure that your estate plan will stand up to the test of time. For instance, working with an attorney can provide some assurance that all of the language used in your will or trust documents is clear; as the ABA notes, the specific phrases and words used in a will could make a difference when it comes to making effective dispositions of your assets. 

By the same token, it is also important to always remember that life can change in an instant. New children are born; treasured loved ones pass away; couples get married and divorced. An estate planning attorney can help you build contingencies for these major life events into your estate plan. An attorney can also offer invaluable perspective and assistance as you move forward in life, and help you reevaluate and update elements of your plan over time as your relationships and circumstances change. 

Can you really deal with all of the complexities and challenges on your own?

Can an impersonal online editor or chatbot really ever truly understand what makes you, you? The reality is that people are not cookie cutter, and estate planning is not a “one-size-fits-all” process. As the ABA suggests, it’s important to take time to consider all of the unique circumstances that will impact your estate, such as…

Tax and financial considerations

Addressing taxes, creditors’ claims, and other financial matters is often one of the most complex parts of the probate process. An attorney can help you weigh many of the financial considerations that will come up down the line, including reducing estate taxes to help maximize the assets available to your beneficiaries 

Loved ones with special needs

As the ABA puts it: “What if a child suffers from a learning disability, incapacity or is vulnerable to the influence of people seeking to grab his inheritance?  What will happen to inherited funds if a child is disabled and requires governmental assistance such as Medicaid?” For parents or guardians of adults or minors with special needs, it may be important to take specialized action — such as setting up a supplemental trust or appointing a conservator. 

Property ownership in multiple states

It’s common to have to deal with real estate in more than one state after a loved one dies. Here in Michigan, for instance, “snowbirds” may have a vacation home in Florida, or a lake house in Wisconsin. A separate probate proceeding, called an “ancillary” probate, must be opened to deal with out-of-state real estate in the state the property is located. An ancillary probate lawyer can help handle this process, no matter how complex it may seem. 

Who will help you consider all of your options, and facilitate the process?

It’s important to remember that the estate planning process is not just about drafting documents, but making important decisions. Who do you trust to oversee the administration of your estate as a personal representative? Who will take on key responsibilities as a trustee? Who do you want to consider as the guardian for your children, taking on the responsibility of raising them if you cannot? Who do you trust to execute your wishes as an agent through a power of attorney for health care or a power of attorney for financial matters? 

An estate planning attorney can help you weigh all of your options as you consider who to name in these important roles. Broadly speaking, it is important to find individuals who are trustworthy, easy to communicate with, and responsible. The most important thing is choosing someone who will be the best choice for your circumstances. Remember, this process is not about making people feel equal; it is about ensuring your wishes are respected and carried out when you no longer have a say in the matter.

As author Liz Weston puts it for NerdWallet, working with an experienced attorney provides an opportunity “to discuss your situation with an expert who has seen many estate plans in action and who knows what can go wrong.” An attorney can walk you through the process while being genuinely attentive and responsive. They can make sure you get answers that are tailored to your circumstances, in plain language that is easy to follow. 

Over time, an attorney can help protect your estate planning documents, to minimize the risk of anything critical getting lost or misplaced. And when it is time for estate administration, having a a relationship with an attorney who is familiar with a decedent’s assets and personal circumstances may allow for a speedier administration of the estate, as the ABA notes. 

Want to Discuss Any Element of Michigan Estate Planning and Probate?

There is no reason to put off taking care of those you love and that which you have worked hard for. 

Looking for guidance on the many moving pieces that go into successful estate and incapacity planning, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, guardianship, and conservatorship? Your Michigan probate attorney Dean E. Patrick is here to help.

Mr. Patrick is a licensed Michigan lawyer specializing in estates and probate law. He has helped hundreds with their estate planning needs, giving him the necessary knowledge to provide unparalleled legal advice and assistance that can make your life a little easier.

If you have questions or are curious about how to move forward, contact our offices at (248) 663-2566 or reach out online to set up your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 was the head of the household, or one of the primary income earners in the family. In Michigan, there are a number of rights belonging to the surviving spouse and children of the decedent that can help make this daunting loss somewhat easier to manage — and which are important for the personal representative and surviving family members of the decedent to understand. 

As described in Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC), the priority allowances to which a decedent’s surviving spouse and dependent children are entitled are the homestead allowance; the family allowance; and exempt property. 

It is important to note that these allowances and rights to exempt property are only available in situations where an individual dies while domiciled in Michigan; for a decedent who dies domiciled outside of this state, rights to homestead allowance, family allowance, and exempt property are governed by the law of the state where they were domiciled at the time of their death. 

*An important note on adjustments: The dollar amounts used below are adjusted annually for inflation, pursuant to MCL 700.1210. When you see a dollar amount noted with an asterisk (*), keep in mind that this specific dollar amount shall be multiplied by the cost-of-living adjustment factor for the calendar year in which the decedent dies. You can find a chart of relevant cost of living adjustments from 2001 through 2020 here, courtesy of the Wayne County Probate Court. An experienced and knowledgeable probate and estates attorney can also help you determine the most up-to-date figures.

Homestead Allowance

A surviving spouse of the decedent is entitled to a homestead allowance of $15,000* (adjusted to $24,000 as of 2020, as provided in section 1210). If there is no surviving spouse, the decedent’s minor and dependent adult children may share the amount of the allowance, divided equally. 

The homestead allowance is exempt from and has priority of other claims against the estate, except administration costs and expenses and reasonable funeral and burial expenses. Broadly speaking, the homestead allowance is payable in addition to any share of the estate that passes to the surviving spouse or minor or dependent children by the will of the decedent, intestate succession, or elective share. 

Family Allowance

The family allowance is intended to provide support for the decedent’s family during the administration of the estate — a period of time which may be quite speedy or slow and drawn out, depending on the unique circumstances of the decedent and their estate. 

Under EPIC, a “reasonable” family allowance is payable to the decedent’s surviving spouse and minor children whom the decedent was obligated to support, as well as children of the decedent or another who were being supported by the decedent.

If the estate is inadequate to discharge allowed claims, allowance shall not continue for longer than one year; the amount of the family allowance may be paid in a lump sum or in periodic installments. The amount is payable to the surviving spouse, and is meant to go to their use and to care for their minor and dependent children. Otherwise, this amount may be paid to the decedent’s children or anyone having their care and custody; if a minor child or another dependent is not living with the surviving spouse, the allowance may be paid partially to the child or to a fiduciary or another person in charge of their care and custody, and partially to the surviving spouse. 

The family allowance is exempt from and has priority over all claims except administration costs and expenses, reasonable funeral and burial expenses, and the homestead allowance. This allowance is generally payable in addition to any share passing to the spouse or children by will, intestate succession, or elective share. A recipient’s right to unpaid allowances is terminated upon the death of the individual.

Exempt Property

The decedent’s surviving spouse is also entitled to household furniture, automobiles, furnishings, appliances, and personal effects from the estate up to a value not to exceed $10,000* more than the amount of any security interests to which the property is subject (adjusted to $16,000 as of 2020, as provided in section 1210). If there is no surviving spouse, the decedent’s children are entitled jointly to the same value (unless they are excluded, as we’ll explore shortly). 

If encumbered assets are selected and the value in excess of security interests, plus that of other exempt property, is less than $10,000* or if there is not $10,000* worth of exempt property in the estate, the spouse or children are entitled to other assets of the estate to the extent necessary to make up the value. 

Rights to exempt property and assets needed to make up a deficiency of exempt property have priority over all claims against the estate, except as necessary to permit for the payment of all of the following in the following order: 

• Administration costs and expenses
• Reasonable funeral and burial expenses.
• Homestead allowance.
• Family allowance.

Exempt property rights are in addition to a benefit or share passing to the surviving spouse or children by the decedent’s will, intestate succession, or elective share. The decedent may choose to exclude one or more of their children from receiving exempt property (or assets to make up a deficiency) by:

• Expressly stating by will that the child takes nothing, or the child takes an amount of $10.00 or less from the estate
• Expressly stating by will that the child is not to receive exempt property

Selection, Determination, and Documentation

If the estate is otherwise sufficient, property specifically devised shall not be used to satisfy the homestead allowance or exempt property. Subject to this restriction, the surviving spouse, fiduciaries or others that have the care and custody of minor children, or children who are adults, may select property of the estate to satisfy the homestead allowance and exempt property.

If they fail to do so within a reasonable time, the personal representative may make those selections. The personal representative may execute a deed of distribution or other instrument to establish the ownership of property taken as homestead allowance or exempt property. 

The personal representative may also determine the amount of the family allowance to be paid in a lump sum not exceeding $18,000* ($29,000 as of 2020, adjusted as provided in section 1210), or periodic installments not exceeding 1/12 of that amount per month for one year. The personal representative may disburse funds of the estate in payment of the family allowance and any part of the homestead allowance payable in cash.

The personal representative or any interested person aggrieved by a selection, determination, payment, proposed payment, or failure to act under this section may petition the court for appropriate relief, which may include a family allowance other than that which the personal representative determined or could have determined.

Have Any More Questions About Michigan Probate or Estate Administration?

Coming to terms with a loved one’s passing is a difficult and emotional process – and one that is only made more fraught when you need to deal with intricate legal and financial matters at the same time.

Throughout this trying time, it’s important to have an experienced and professional advocate on your side, one who can patiently help you understand the ins and outs of probate and estate administration in your area.

Whether you are a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, an omitted child, or a widow/widower, a probate and estates attorney can help address your questions and navigate the process from beginning to end, so that you can secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

If you’re based in Michigan, Attorney Dean E. Patrick can help you gain a better understanding of probate and estate administration. Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of probate, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, he is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome. 

If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, our entire firm will work hard to accomplish your goals – with expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism at every step of the way.

Ready to keep the conversation going? The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.. is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. You may click here to arrange your initial consultation or call us at (248) 663-2566 today.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Here in Michigan, a will is an important estate planning tool — one that can allow you to maintain control over the distribution of your property and provide for your loved ones when you are gone. Under Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC), there are several different methods that a testator may use to create a valid will, including the often-misunderstood holographic will. 

What Is a Holographic Will?

Under Michigan law, a will is generally considered valid if it meets certain criteria. Namely, for a will to be valid:

• It must be in writing.
• It must be signed by the testator (or in the testator’s name by some other individual if done in the testator’s conscious presence and at their direction).
• It must be signed by at least two witnesses.  

In broad terms, a holographic will is an alternative way to create a last will that does not require witnesses, though it must generally still meet certain requirements in order to be considered valid — namely, that it is dated, signed, and that the testator’s signature and material portions of the document are in the testator’s handwriting. A writing may also be considered a valid will if intent that the document constitutes a testator’s will can be established by extrinsic evidence. 

Generally speaking, for any will to be considered valid, the testator must be 18 years of age or older and have sufficient mental capacity, which includes: 

• Having the ability to understand that one is providing for the disposition of property after death.
• Knowing the nature and extent of one’s property and “the natural objects of his or her bounty”
• Having the ability to understand in a reasonable manner the general nature and effect of signing the will

A will must also be made without constraint or undue influence, such as coercion or manipulation from an outside party. 

Michigan is one of a handful of states that permits and recognizes holographic wills. In fact, EPIC goes one step further, and notes that a writing intended as a will can be recognized if it can be established “by clear and convincing evidence” that the decedent intended the document or writing to constitute a will, a revocation of a will, an addition or alteration to a will, or a revival of a previously revoked will. 

When and Why Are Holographic Wills Used?

There are any number of circumstances that might result in the production of a holographic will. Holographic wills may be used when someone is suffering from a terminal illness, or fears that their death is imminent. For example, someone who is trapped or stranded may write down their last wishes and requests in the form of a holographic will. In other cases, a holographic will in some form may be included as part of a suicide note.

More generally, some people will create holographic wills when they are unable or unwilling to seek out assistance from another party, such as an attorney. For example, some reclusive or housebound individuals may attempt to create a holographic will from home. In other events, it could be done in an attempt to keep personal decisions private from family members or witnesses, or simply out of a desire to go “DIY” and potentially save money upfront, rather than seeking out professional guidance.  

The Challenges and Disadvantages of a Holographic Will

While some people may see a holographic will as an opportunity to get things done quickly, privately, and cheaply, the reality is that they often cause more confusion and difficulties for your estate and your loved ones down the line. 

Holographic wills often face more disputes and contests to their validity than other types of wills. Without witnesses, interested parties may challenge a holographic will on the grounds of fraud or forgery. Ultimately, it may come down to a handwriting expert to prove whether or not the document was actually created and signed by the alleged testator. Similarly, a holographic will may leave other questions and ambiguities to parse, which could lead to will contests — for instance, over whether or not the holographic will was created under coercion or undue influence from an outside source, or whether the decedent had sufficient mental capacity. 

A hastily prepared holographic will may also increase the likelihood for errors or accidents, which could affect the efficacy of the will and the amount of time it takes to administer the decedent’s estate. There could be other documents out there that conflict with the holographic will, such as a previous will or other handwritten alterations and amendments. Without the insights and guidance of an experienced professional, someone writing their own will may also commit simple errors and unintentional omissions — such as neglecting to name a guardian for their minor children, forgetting about important assets, or using unclear or inaccurate language which could cause confusion and leave room for interpretation and disagreements. 

Finally, a holographic will may cause issues if the decedent owned property in multiple states, which would require ancillary probate. Because not all states recognize holographic wills, this situation could create some difficulties. 

Ultimately, there are many situations in which a holographic will might create just as many questions as it resolves. In situations where you must defend or contest a holographic will in the probate court, it is important to work with an experienced legal professional who can help you understand the ins and outs of the situation and aggressively advocate for your position. 

The Importance of Working With an Experienced Michigan Estate Planning and Probate Attorney

Whether you are taking care to plan for your family’s future or put in the position of defending or contesting a will in the Michigan probate courts, know that you do not have to go through these difficult circumstances alone. 

Ready to create a will that will help you maintain control over your most important assets, and help take care of the people who matter most? Our firm has the experience and knowledge to walk you through the process of creating a last will that will protect your family.

Facing a will contest? Handling all of the steps involved can be complex and time-intensive. A lawyer skilled in probate litigation can help you understand all of your options and navigate through the probate courts with the guidance and advice your matter requires — from doing research and determining the validity of the contest, to filing the proper paperwork at the right time, to aggressively representing your interests in the courtroom should it become necessary.

At the Patrick & Associates, PLLC., we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies. We will be flexible in order to accommodate your needs, and we work hard to discuss these difficult matters in terms that are easy to comprehend. With staff available 24 hours a day, we’re also never far from your questions and concerns. 

If you have further questions or are looking for representation as you navigate Michigan’s tricky probate court system, don’t hesitate to call our Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 to set up your initial consultation. You may also click here to get in touch online.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 to complete your estate plan or are forced into the probate courts, you need to go to an established probate and estate planning attorney. 

Michigan probate attorneys focus on the areas of law that are handled in the probate courts, including estate administration, trusts, guardianships, and conservatorships. An experienced attorney can provide fiduciary services, and assist with the many considerations that go into estate and incapacity planning. 

Ultimately, a skilled and efficient probate attorney’s job is really to help you protect the important things — including the people you hold dear and the assets you have spent a lifetime acquiring. 

Curious about what this may mean? Let’s explore what a probate and estate planning attorney can do to help Michigan families and individuals…

Navigate the Probate Court System

The Michigan probate courts have broad jurisdiction to handle matters relating to deceased estates, trust estates, guardianships, and conservatorships — all matters that can be not only complex, but stressful and emotionally taxing to face. The probate court is not a comfortable setting for handling an estate, and it can be difficult to navigate alone. 

An experienced probate attorney can make sure that you receive the expert legal guidance you need to make a difficult situation easier. Whether the estate is contested or uncontested, an attorney can make sure that you fulfill all of your legal obligations when serving as a personal representative or trustee. 

A knowledgeable legal professional can provide the assistance and support that you need as an estate is guided through the Michigan probate courts, while also helping you deal with any number of potential probate issues, including:

• Breach of fiduciary duty
• Opening or closing a probate estate
• Issues relating to an omitted spouse and/or children
• Will and trust contests and disputes
• Determination of heirs
• Handling creditor claims
• Undue influence
• Fraud
• Incapacity and living probate
• Wrongful death
• Beneficiary distributions
• Estate accountings

Stay In Control of Your Most Important Assets

If you become incapacitated, and even when you’re gone, estate planning keeps you in control of the things that matter most to you — and an experienced attorney can provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to assure assure that you have a say over your assets, based on the specifics of your circumstances. 

There are many myths and misconceptions out there about estate planning — that it is only for the ultra-wealthy, for example, or that a will is the only estate planning tool you need. An attorney can help you separate from fiction, and find the answers you’ve been looking for and choose the tools best suited to your individual circumstances. These might include: 

• Wills. Wills are an important part of an estate plan, which allow you to control the distribution of your property and nominate the person or people you choose to look after your children or incapacitated adult loved ones. If you do not take advantage of your ability to determine how your property and assets will be handled in the event of your passing, the state of Michigan will decide for you. A probate and estates attorney has the experience and knowledge it takes to empower you to create a last will that will protect your family, control the distribution of your assets, and facilitate the estate administration process.
• Trusts. A trust is a written agreement created by a settlor or grantor that names an individual who is responsible for managing property as directed by the trust agreement, who is known as the trustee.  Once the trust is created, it is very important to re-title your assets into the trust or the trust will remain an empty vessel. An expert in trust law and administration can not only help you to understand all of your options and assist you with the creation of the trust, but also ensure that all legal formalities are addressed so that you create a trust that is up to your specifications. Trusts can help assets to avoid formal estate administration in the probate courts, and could help protect your estate from certain taxes and fees, which would ultimately provide more to your beneficiaries. 
• Powers of Attorney. A power of attorney is a written instrument that gives legal authority to a third party (known as the agent or attorney in fact) to act on the behalf of someone else (known as the principal). In estate planning, a power of attorney (POA) is a tool that can be used to ensure that someone you trust manages your financial and health care decisions when you no longer can. There are different types of POA, including designations for financial matters and health care. A legal professional can work with you one-on-one to explore and discover your goals, and help ensure that your affairs will be handled the way you would want when you can no longer manage or communicate about them on your own.

Look to the Future With Confidence, Clarity, and Peace of Mind

Having a comprehensive estate plan in place can help provide any number of personal benefits, including:

• Offering peace of mind knowing that you took action to minimize the stress of your circumstances for your family.
• Providing assurance that your partner will get the assets and control you want them to have
• Helping to ensure that someone you can rely on is appointed to handle your assets and affairs.
• Assuring distribution of your assets in a manner appropriate for your circumstances.
• Helping to ensure that inheritance does not become a detriment to your beneficiaries
• Directing how you will be treated should you ever become incapacitated
• Making it easier to add updates or make revisions to your estate plan as your circumstances change over time

It’s never fun to think about what would happen if you were to sustain a major injury or succumb to illness, but it’s an important step to take — and one that is necessary to make sure that your wishes will be heard, respected, and carried out. When you face the future with an attorney’s guidance it’s not only legal advice that you’ll receive, but a little peace of mind as well.

Take Care of Your Loved Ones

An estates and probate attorney can help you protect the people who matter most, helping with matters including estate planning, trust administration, and guardianships and conservatorships. 

A guardianship is a legal arrangement established in the probate court to provide for the well-being of a protected individual, such as a minor or an incapacitated adult. Broadly speaking, a guardian has legal responsibility for another person and is in charge of his or her comfort, care, and general well-being.

A conservatorship is intended to help manage a protected individual’s estate if and when a situation arises when an individual can no longer effectively manage their finances or property. Here in Michigan, conservatorships and guardianships serve different functions — with conservators making decisions about the property or the finances of another person, while a guardian is responsible for medical or housing decisions. The same person can serve in both roles, or they can be assigned to different individuals.

An attorney can help you navigate the many matters relating to conservatorships and guardianships that must be settled in the probate court system — including establishing, terminating, modifying, or contesting a conservatorship or guardianship; defending your current position as conservator or guardian from contests; removing an acting conservator or guardian who has failed in their duties; filing required accounts and records; and more. 

Providing for the people closest to you is also a key component of estate planning. In addition to nominating a guardian or conservator for your minor or incapacitated adult loved ones, an attorney can help you devise strategies to help:

• Maximize the assets available to your beneficiaries when you have passed.
• Minimize or eliminate the cost of taxes probate fees
• Allow for more immediate distribution of your assets
• Assure inheritance does not become a detriment to your beneficiaries
• Prevent disagreements and conflicts among family after you are gone

Looking for Help Protecting the Important Things?

Whether you are currently dealing with the legal aftermath following the passing of a loved one, or are ready to find ways to make estate administration more efficient for your friends and family down the line, our firm is here and ready to help.

When it is time to take care of your estate planning needs, get the answers, insight, and guidance you and beneficiaries deserve. Whether you are trying to avoid probate with a trust, want to make sure your assets are protected and transferred according to your wishes, or want to plan for incapacity with powers of attorney, we can customize a solution to suit your needs.

When it’s time to navigate the probate courts, our attorneys can help ensure that you receive the expert legal advice your matter deserves. Whether you are confronted with an estate contest or want to fulfill your legal obligations and transfer assets without incurring personal liability, you can rely on us to bring you up to speed with the process, advocate for your position, and provide the support you need. 

Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of probate, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, he is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome. If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, we will work hard to accomplish your goals – providing your matter with the expertise, empathy, intellect, creativity, and professionalism it deserves at every step of the way.

Ready to keep the conversation going? The probate and estate planning lawyers of Patrick & Associates, PLLC are conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. You may click here to arrange your initial consultation or call us at (248) 663-2566 today to learn more.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 “EPIC.” Short for “Estates and Protected Individuals Code,” this refers to the act that governs matters relating to the administration of estates of deceased persons and protected individuals in our state. These are matters over which the probate court has exclusive jurisdiction.

Curious about all things EPIC? Let’s take a look at the history behind this important act — and what it means for Michigan probate matters in 2020 and beyond. 

A Brief History of Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC)

The early nineteenth century saw the beginnings of Michigan’s modern legal system. In its early days, Michigan’s legal system consisted of appointed justices, who served on courts including “The Court of Common Pleas” or “The Court of General Quarter Sessions.” The courts continued evolving from there, including the formation of the probate court system. 

As the Probate Court of Kent County puts it in a writing, the probate court is:

a Court of statutory jurisdiction, primarily concerned with the protection of incapacitated or mentally ill individuals and their assets, and the proper transfer of assets at death.

Throughout its history, Michigan’s probate courts have been governed by several different codes, including the 1939 Probate Code, and the Revised Probate Code (RPC), which was enacted in 1978. Signed into law in 1998 and becoming effective in April of 2000, EPIC was devised to replace the RPC. 

In a contemporaneous writing, the State Bar of Michigan heralded EPIC as “the most important piece of legislation affecting probate and trust administration in over 20 years.”

As the State Bar explains, EPIC retained some of the “unique and essential features” of Michigan law, while also serving as a true integration of the Uniform Probate Code (UPC) — an act meant to streamline and standardize matters relating to inheritance and decedents’ estates across the United States, which has been adopted in full or in part by 18 states. 

Preparation of EPIC took more than seven years, and included input from legal practitioners, probate judges, probate registers, and financial professionals. 

What Does The Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC) Do?

As described in the act itself, EPIC is intended to:

revise, consolidate, and classify aspects of the law relating to wills and intestacy, relating to the administration and distribution of estates of certain individuals, relating to trusts, and relating to the affairs of certain individuals under legal incapacity. 

By extension, EPIC also includes provisions governing many of the transfers, contracts, and deposits relating to these matters, including the facilitation of trusts. 

EPIC also provides for the powers and procedures of the probate court, which has jurisdiction over these matters.

More specifically, EPIC’s primary purposes are to: 

• Simplify and clarify the law concerning the affairs of decedents, missing individuals, protected individuals, minors, and legally incapacitated individuals. 
• Discover and make effective a decedent’s intent in distribution of the decedent’s property.
• Promote a speedy and efficient system for liquidating a decedent’s estate and making distribution to their successors.
• Provide for a uniform law among various jurisdictions, both within and outside of the state.

EPIC applies to the affairs and estates of decedents, missing individuals, and protected individuals living in Michigan; as well as a nonresident’s property located in this state. EPIC also applies with regards to trusts subject to administration in Michigan, as well as survivorship and related accounts.

As the State of Michigan explains in a writing, protected individuals are “persons who by reason of their age or physical impairment cannot manage their own affairs,” including incapacitated individuals and minors. 

EPIC and the Michigan Probate Court

Under EPIC, the court is granted “exclusive legal and equitable jurisdiction” of all of the following:

Matters relating to the settlement of a deceased individual’s estate.

This includes both testate and intestate estates subject to administration in Michigan. A testate estate is one that involves the probate of a decedent’s will, while intestate estates are those where there is no will. The court may be involved in proceedings relating to the internal affairs of the estate; estate administration, settlement, and distribution; the construction of a will; determination of heirs; determination of death; and the rights of devisees, heirs and fiduciaries connected to the estate.

Proceedings involving trusts.

EPIC grants the court exclusive jurisdiction over proceedings concerning the validity, settlement, administration, distribution, modification, reformation, or termination of a trust, as well as the rights and obligations of trustees and trust beneficiaries — including appointing or removing a trustee, ascertaining beneficiaries, and resolving questions stemming from the administration of a trust. 

Proceedings that concern guardianships, conservatorships, and protective proceedings.

This includes matters relating to the protection of an individual under disability, and his or her property. As the Probate Court of Kent County explains: 

If a conservator or guardian of the estate is appointed, the Court must then monitor the continuing proceedings to ensure that the required annual accounts are filed and approved, showing that the assets are being held and used for the benefit of the ward. The Court also conducts hearings regarding disputes that arise concerning conservatorships and petitions to terminate or modify conservatorships.

Proceedings to require, hear, or settle the accounts of a fiduciary.

This includes ordering instructions or directions to a fiduciary that concern an estate within the court’s jurisdiction, particularly upon the request of an interested person.

Interested In Learning More About Probate In Michigan?

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 to estate plan or are forced into the probate court, you need to go to an established probate and estate planning attorney. That’s where we come in. 

Attorney Dean E. Patrick focuses on:

• Estate planning, including wills and trusts
• Estate administration and settlement, including mediation
• Incapacity planning, including powers of attorney for health care and finance
• Guardianships, whether contested or uncontested
• Conservatorships, whether contested or uncontested
• Probate litigation, including will and trust contests
• Fiduciary services, including trusteeships and conservatorships

You and your family can rest assured knowing that our office is handling your matter with professionalism and expertise. Our meeting schedules are flexible in order to accommodate your needs and we work hard to discuss these difficult matters in terms that are easy to comprehend. Our office is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan and our staff is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to receive phone calls and help you with your legal matters.

Have any more questions? Ready to get started? Contact Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield office at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation. 

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Losing a loved one can be an incredibly difficult time. On top of the understandable grief and devastation at losing someone dear — whether a parent, sibling, spouse, or grandparent — this moment can also bring confusion and uncertainty. There are many logistical steps and important decisions that must be taken after someone dies in Michigan, and many people don’t know how or when to begin moving forward. 

Knowing what steps to take after a loved one passes away can make life a little easier during this unusual and challenging time.

It’s important to understand that every situation is unique, and there is no single blueprint to follow when someone passes away. However, there are some important things that one must consider and actions that must be taken — both in the short window after someone passes, and over the course of the next several days and weeks.

One important first step is to contact your loved one’s estate planning attorney (if they had one), or get in touch with an experienced probate lawyer in your area. A legal professional can help you understand the process your loved one’s estate will succumb to in court, as well as the basic steps you and your family can take based on your loved one’s unique circumstances.

What action steps should you be prepared to take after a loved one dies in Michigan? Here is a quick, informal overview of what you can expect: 

Immediately After Death

After a legal pronouncement of death from a paramedic, nurse, or doctor, the next step will be to arrange for proper transportation and handling of the body by the coroner’s office or a local mortuary or crematorium. 

In the immediate aftermath of a death, communication will also be essential. At this time, it’s important to begin notifying family and friends close to you and the deceased. Shortly after, it will be important to begin informing other relevant parties, such as the decedent’s employer or  landlord, or the school where their children are enrolled. To help make things easier, many people will activate a family phone tree, so it doesn’t fall entirely on one person to spread the news. 

Immediately after a loved one passes, it will also be important to make temporary arrangements to make sure their dependents and pets are cared for.

Within a Few Days

Moving forward, there will be some important steps for the family of the decedent to take promptly, including: 

Making funeral preparations

It’s important to determine if your loved one left behind funeral arrangements or requests, including where the ceremony will be held, how they want their body to be prepared, and where they will be interred. Many people make pre-arrangements with a funeral home, to make things easier on their loved ones financially and logistically. 

The deceased may have designated a funeral representative as part of their will or in another document; this is the individual who will  have the right and power to make decisions about funeral arrangements and the handling, disposition, or disinterment of the decedent’s body. If the decedent did not choose a funeral representative, then this responsibility may also fall to the deceased’s spouse or children.  A special personal representative may also be appointed to step in and handle estate issues, including making funeral arrangements, before the appointment of the regular personal representative. 

A funeral director can assist with many important tasks over the course of preparing for the burial, including placing an obituary, and assisting in the completion of a death certificate.

Securing the person’s property

You may wish to take steps to protect your loved one’s property from vandalism and theft. This might include locking up their house and vehicles, and bringing in help to clean out perishable food from the fridge, water plants, and collect mail. 

Getting certified copies of a death certificate

Obtain multiple certified copies of a death certificate through the local office of vital statistics. This paperwork will be necessary to take several important steps, including receiving distribution from insurance policies, retitling financial accounts and investments, and transferring personal property or real estate.  

Collecting important documents and records

Dealing with the legal aftermath of a loved one’s passing will involve handling many different personal documents, including estate planning documents and identifying information. The State Bar of Michigan recommends locating the following items, and giving them to the person responsible for completing the deceased’s final affairs:

• Directives regarding funeral arrangements
• Prepaid funeral or burial contracts & related documents
• Last will & testament
• Trust agreements
• Marriage certificates (and premarital agreements, if applicable)
• Bank statements, account information, and safety deposit box keys
• Retirement and brokerage account statements
• Birth certificate
• Social Security card
• Military discharge documents, if applicable
• Stock certificates and savings bonds
• Recent bills 
• Tax returns and documents 
• Deeds, tax information, and other documents pertaining to real estate

Contacting legal and financial professionals who can help you move forward

Remember that you don’t need to go through this process alone. Your loved one may have been working with professionals who can help you make decisions and move forward on their behalf, including a financial advisor and an estate planning attorney. 

A financial advisor or planner can help you determine what investments your loved one owned and put a value on their assets. They may also be able to assist with transferring or retitling financial assets to a designated beneficiary. 

An estates and probate attorney can answer any legal questions and address concerns you may have, provide copies of your loved one’s estate planning documents, and help coordinate and begin the probate process — including determining whether a probate proceeding is necessary for the decedent’s estate properties, helping to determine who will be acting as personal representative, and filing the decedent’s will in the probate court for their county of residence.

Within 10-14 Days

In the weeks following a loved one’s passing, it will be important to tie up loose ends and begin the work of estate and trust administration. Here are a few key guideposts and considerations to keep in mind: 

Notify the Social Security Administration, credit card companies, and others

If your loved one was receiving Social Security benefits, be sure to notify the SSA to receive information about survivor’s benefit, or determine if any payments must be returned. 

To stop the risk of identity theft or fraud, notify the major credit reporting agencies of the death. You can request a “deceased” flag with Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion. 

Similarly, unless you are named on the account and wish to retain the card, this is also the time to notify credit card companies about the death, as well as utility companies. If needed, cancel or redirect newspaper subscriptions and other home deliveries to the deceased’s property. 

File claims with life insurance policies

If your loved one had insurance policies, it will be necessary to contact them to file a claim for life insurance benefits. Your estate planning attorney can also help transfer any annuities or benefits to heirs designated beneficiaries, as needed. 

Work to transfer or distribute nonprobate assets

Some of your loved one’s assets are likely to be nontestamentary, meaning that they will likely not have to go through probate administration. Most commonly, this includes assets held in a revocable living trust, or those with a beneficiary or payable-on-death designation or a co-owner who is legally entitled to the property. A probate attorney can help notify financial institutions to transfer or pay your loved one’s accounts to the appropriate beneficiaries; retitle jointly held assets in the name of the surviving party; and assist a successor trustee in managing and administering relevant trust property. 

Beginning the Probate Process

In Michigan, the legal process involved in administering a decedent’s estate is commonly known as probate. The probate process begins when the decedent’s will (if there is one) is filed with the court, and a personal representative is appointed. 

The personal representative assumes the important role of settling and distributing the decedent’s estate expeditiously and efficiently, in line with the terms of the decedent’s will and all relevant state laws. 

Most commonly, a personal representative is named in the decedent’s will. If the person died without a will, they are said to have died intestate. In this case, the probate court will take an active role in determining who will serve as personal representative. The laws for intestate succession will also take effect if the decedent passed away without a will, or left significant gaps in their estate plan. Broadly speaking, intestate succession means that the assets of the deceased will be distributed to their survivors following a strict order of priority, which is determined by Michigan law. 

In broad strokes, the estate administration process involves a few key steps, which are overseen by the personal representative: 

• Gathering the assets of the estate and determining their value
• Paying the decedent’s debts and final expenses from the estate
• Distributing remaining assets to the appropriate people or entities, in line with the decedent’s wishes and all relevant local laws

As they execute their duties, the personal representative will be held to a high standard of conduct. The personal representative is a fiduciary, meaning that they are expected to put the interests of the estate above their own. 

Probate also involves resolving any complications, issues, or disputes that might arise during the administration of the estate — including trust and will contests, addressing a breach of fiduciary duty, or handling guardianship and conservatorship proceedings. Along the way, it may prove important to have an experienced legal professional on your side, who can address your questions and help you navigate through probate litigation, so that you can secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

At Every Step of the Way: Don’t Forget to Take Care of Yourself

In the days, weeks, and months following the loss of a loved one, remember to take care of yourself. This time can be emotionally charged and incredibly draining, particularly if you are closely involved in administering your loved one’s estate. 

In the days after your loved one’s passing, be sure to contact your workplace, and look into their bereavement time policies if you need to step away.

Moving forward, do whatever you can to keep yourself feeling healthy and secure. Look into local support groups for grief and loss in your community, and keep in touch with friends and family. Get support from a counselor or therapist if you need it. Many people also look into talking with a faith leader at this time, or make it a point to get involved in volunteering and community organizations to stay active and engaged. Make time for exercise, keep up with doctor’s visits, and build in plenty of opportunities for self-care, in whatever form you need. If the workload involved with handling your loved one’s affairs starts to feel overwhelming, delegate to trusted friends and advisors. 

You Don’t Have to Go Through This Difficult Time Alone

Coming to terms with a loved one’s passing is a hard and emotional process – and one that is only made more difficult when you need to deal with complex legal matters at the same time. 

During this trying time, you owe it to yourself and to all involved to have a professional and experienced probate lawyer like our Attorney Dean E. Patrick at your side, guiding you through the probate courts of Michigan. 

Mr. Patrick can provide the assistance and support that you need as an estate is guided through the Michigan probate courts. Mr. Patrick has worked with many different legal issues, so you can be sure that he is knowledgeable on all aspects of probate. Whether you are a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, an omitted child, or a widow or widower, Mr. Patrick will patiently bring you up to speed with the process while understanding and being supportive as you recover from the grief.

Whenever you’re ready to get started, Dean E. Patrick is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances. If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, we will work hard to accomplish your goals – with expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism at every step of the way.

Ready to keep the conversation going? The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.. is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. You may click here to arrange your initial consultation, or give us call us at (248) 663-2566

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

Over the course of a lifetime, we all acquire assets and possessions — and most of us also take on debt, in some form or another. What happens to those debts when you pass on? That’s where probate comes in.  

One of the most important aspects of the Michigan probate process is receiving creditors’ claims; determining what claims are legitimate; and paying off or settling just debts from the decedent’s estate. 

It can be intimidating to think of managing or resolving a decedent’s debts and financial obligations after they’re gone, particularly if you are a personal representative or another fiduciary tasked with guiding their estate through the probate courts. 

After a death, it is not unheard of for creditors and debt collection agencies to begin hounding the decedent’s family members in an attempt to obtain payment — adding stress, pressure, and confusion to an already difficult time. 

Whether you are planning ahead to make things easier for your loved ones down the line, or you are a personal representative or trustee involved in the administration of an estate, you probably have questions about claims, debts, and final expenses. Let’s explore the ins and outs of handling creditors’ claims and resolving decedent debts during Michigan probate:

Notifying Creditors and Presentation of Claims

One of the first steps in resolving a decedent’s debts is providing proper notice to their creditors, both known and unknown. Generally speaking, this is typically a responsibility of the personal representative. 

Upon appointment, the personal representative must publish a notice to creditors in a public venue, such as a local newspaper for the county in which the decedent resided. This notice should include: 

• Identifying information for the decedent (including their name, last known address, and date of death)
• Name and address of the personal representative
• Information for the court where proceedings are filed 
• Notice that estate creditors must present their claims within four months after the date of the notice’s publication or be forever barred

In addition to publishing this public notice, the personal representative should also send a copy of the notice or a similar writing within four months to all of the estate creditors of which they are aware, as well as to any trustees of the estate. 

A personal representative is considered to “know” of a creditor of the decedent if they have actual notice of the creditor’s existence, or if their existence is “reasonably ascertainable” based on the decedent’s available records for two years preceding their death, or any mail immediately after their death. If the personal representative first learns of an estate creditor less than 28 days before the expiration of the four-month time limit, they must give notice within 28 days. 

Notice to creditors may not be necessary in situations where the estate has no assets, or if it qualifies for summary distribution as a small estate. It is important to consult with a lawyer to gain a better understanding of the process for administering a small estate in Michigan, including the most up-to-date values for when an estate may qualify for the simplified small estate process.

Broadly speaking, a creditor has four months from the date of publication of the notice to present their claim, or one month from the date they received notice (whichever is later). Failure to act in a timely fashion may result in the claim being barred. If proper notice requirements have not been met, the creditor must present their claims within three years after the decedent’s death.

Broadly speaking, a claimant can present their claims against an estate by:

• delivering or mailing a written statement to the personal representative indicating the claim’s basis, the claimant’s name and address, and the amount claimed, or by filing with the court a written statement of the claim and delivering or mailing a copy of the statement to the personal representative; or,
• by commencing a proceeding to obtain payment of a claim against the estate in a court in which the personal representative may be subjected to jurisdiction. The commencement of the proceeding shall occur within the time limit for presenting the claim. 

Generally, a claim will be barred if the statute of limitations had run at the time of the decedent’s death; if the statute had not run out, the running of the statute is suspended for a four-month period following the date of the decedent’s death. A claim that arises after the decedent’s death must generally be presented within four months after the claim arises or the date of publication, whichever is later.

Priority of Claims

Often, the property and assets included in a decedent’s estate will not be sufficient to pay all claims and allowances in full. In such situations, Michigan law instructs the personal representative to make payment in the following order of priority: 

• Costs and expenses of estate administration (such as filing fees, accounting fees, attorney’s fees, fiduciary fees, and other administrative expenses for the estate)
• Reasonable funeral and burial expenses
• Homestead allowance (as described under MCL 700.2402)
• Family allowance (as described under MCL 700.2403)
• Exempt property (as described under MCL 700.2404)
• Debts and taxes with priority under federal law (this includes federal taxes and medical assistance payments subject to Michigan’s Estate Recovery program)
• Reasonable and necessary medical and hospital expenses of the decedent’s last illness (including compensation for attendants)
• Debts and taxes with priority under other laws of the state 
• All other claims 

Importantly, preference is not given in the payment of one claim over another for all claims of the same class. A claim due and payable is not entitled to a preference over a claim not yet due.

If there are insufficient assets in the estate to pay all claims in full or to satisfy the homestead allowance, family allowance, and exempt property, the personal representative shall certify the amount and nature of the deficiency to the trustee of any trust of the decedent that was revocable at the time of the decedent’s death for payment. If the personal representative is aware of other nonprobate transfers that may be liable for claims and allowances, then, unless the decedent’s will provides otherwise, the personal representative may collect the deficiency in a reasonable manner so that each nonprobate transfer bears a proportionate or equitable share of the total burden.

Allowance, Disallowance, and Payment of Claims

Broadly speaking, once the personal representative receives a claim, they may decide to allow it or disallow it. 

To disallow a claim, the personal representative may deliver or mail a notice to the claimant stating that the claim has been disallowed, either in whole or in part. 

The personal representative can later change their position on the allowance or disallowance of a claim; if they do so, they must provide appropriate notice to the claimant. A personal representative cannot  disallow a claim after allowance by a court order or judgment directing the claim’s payment. Similarly, the personal representative cannot decide to allow a claim that has previously been barred. 

Broadly speaking, a claim that the personal representative disallows will be barred to the extent of the disallowance, unless the claimant commences a proceeding for allowance no later than 63 days after receiving appropriate notice. 

If the personal representative fails to deliver or mail notice of action on the claim within 63 days after the time for the claim’s presentation expires, or within 63 days after the personal representative’s appointment — whichever is later — then the claim is considered to be allowed. 

As for payment of claims? As the Probate Court of Kent County explains in a writing: 

After the expiration of the 4 months following publication of the notice to creditors, and after providing for homestead, family and exempt property allowances, for claims that have been disallowed and appealed, and costs of administration, the personal representative must pay the claims allowed in the order of the priority as provided above. No order allowing claims is necessary.

If a claim is presented and if it appears to be in the estate’s best interest, the personal representative may also settle the claim, “whether due or not due, absolute or contingent, liquidated or unliquidated.”

While the personal representative may pay a claim that is not barred at any time, with or without formal presentation, it is generally advisable for the personal representative to take their time and allow for all claims to be presented before taking action. The personal representative may be “individually liable to another claimant whose claim is allowed” and who is injured by the payment, including: 

• If a payment is made before the expiration of the time limit and the personal representative fails to require the payee to give adequate security for the refund of any of the payment necessary to pay another claimant.
• Payment is made due to the negligence or willful fault of the personal representative in a manner that deprives the claimant of priority.

Importantly, secured claims are handled somewhat differently. A personal representative shall only pay a secured claim “on the basis of the amount allowed if the creditor surrenders the security.” Otherwise, the personal representative pays the amount of the claim allowed minus the fair value of the security (if the creditor exhausts the security before receiving payment). If the creditor does not have the right to exhaust the security or has not done so, payment is based upon “the amount of the claim allowed less the value of the security determined by converting it into money according to the terms of the agreement under which the security was delivered to the creditor,” or “by the creditor and personal representative by agreement, arbitration, compromise, or litigation.”

When allowing a claim, a personal representative may deduct any counterclaims that the estate has against the claimant. In determining a claim against an estate, the court shall reduce the amount allowed by the amount of a counterclaim and, if counterclaims exceed the claim, render a judgment against the claimant for the excess amount.

Finally, if estate property is encumbered by a mortgage, pledge, lien, or other security interest and it appears to be in the estate’s best interest, the personal representative may pay the encumbrance or a part of the encumbrance; renew or extend an obligation secured by the encumbrance; or convey or transfer the property to the creditor in satisfaction of the lien, in whole or in part, whether or not the encumbrance holder has presented a claim. 

Looking to Learn More About Any Aspect of Michigan Probate?

Dealing with a loved one’s passing is a difficult and emotional process – one that is only made more complicated when you need to deal with intricate financial and legal matters at the same time. In this difficult moment, it’s important to have an experienced and professional advocate on your side. 

Whether you are an heir, a trustee, a creditor, or a personal representative, Attorney Dean E. Patrick can provide the assistance and support that you need as an estate is guided through the Michigan probate courts. 

At the Patrick & Associates, PLLC., we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies as we help you navigate probate and estate administration, including (but certainly not limited to) general probate litigation, will and trust contests, beneficiary disputes, guardianships, and conservatorships.

If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, we will work hard to accomplish your goals – while providing the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism your matter deserves at every step of the way.

Have any more questions? Ready to get started? Contact Mr. Patrick at his Southfield office at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation. Our staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions and help you with your legal matters.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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, this means that the courts will step in and make determinations about how the decedent’s property will be distributed among their surviving family members. Anyone who stands to inherit under the statutes of intestate succession is known as an heir. 

Dying intestate can make an incredibly difficult period even more complex and time-consuming for your survivors, particularly if there needs to be a determination of heirs — which can add a significant degree of time and effort to the already long and costly process involved in administering an estate.

Just as importantly, if you do not set down your wishes in a will or guide the distribution of your property through other estate planning mechanisms, such as a trust, then your assets will be distributed following the strict guidelines set down by Michigan law. This means that your most treasured assets will pass completely outside of your control, and could end up going to some people you might have preferred to omit or disinherit. 

Michigan Intestacy Statutes: A Brief Overview

Intestacy laws guide how an estate should be settled in the absence of a will. Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC) states that any part of a decedent’s estate not effectively disposed of by will passes by intestate succession to the decedent’s heirs. This might occur if the decedent dies without leaving any valid will, or if they omit certain items from their estate plan. 

Non-probate assets are not subject to intestate succession. Generally speaking, this category includes assets held in a trust; property co-owned as joint tenants or tenants by the entireties; and securities, financial accounts, retirement funds, and other assets with a designated “pay on death” or “transfer on death” beneficiary. 

Michigan law sets down a particular order of succession by which heirs stand to inherit when an individual who dies intestate — and how much each party might ultimately receive from the estate. Broadly speaking, Michigan law gives highest priority to the surviving spouse of the decedent, followed by their children and grandchildren, then parents and siblings, followed by more distant relatives.

Intestate Succession

If a decedent is survived solely by a spouse, with no descendants or surviving parents, then the spouse will receive the entire intestate estate. 

If a decedent is survived by a spouse and descendants who are also descendants of the surviving spouse, then the spouse receives a fixed share of the estate, plus half of the remaining balance of the intestate estate. As of 2020, the amount that a spouse will receive is the first $239,000 of the estate, with the decedents dividing the remaining share.*

*MCL Section 700.1210 states that  for decedents who die after December 31, 2000, the specific dollar amounts listed under Michigan’s intestacy statutes shall be multiplied by the cost-of-living adjustment factor for the calendar year in which the decedent dies. Michigan’s cost-of-living adjustment factor has been set to 1.593 for calendar year 2020. More information and a record of historical adjustments and dollar amounts can be found here. 

If the decedent is survived by a spouse and one or more parents, then then the surviving spouse receives the first $239,000* of the estate, plus three-quarters of any balance of the intestate estate. 

If the decedent is survived by a spouse and one or more descendants who are not descendants of the surviving spouse, then the surviving spouse will receive the first $239,000* of the estate plus half the balance of the remaining intestate estate. 

If none of the decedent’s surviving descendants are descendants of the surviving spouse, then the surviving spouse receives the first $159,000,* plus half of any remaining balance of the intestate estate. 

Next, any part of the intestate estate that does not pass to the decedent’s surviving spouse — or the entire intestate estate if there is no surviving spouse — passes in the following order to the following individuals who survive the decedent:

• Descendants by representation (e.g., children and grandchildren of the decedent)
• Surviving parent or parents 
• Descendants of the decedent’s parents or of either of them by representation (e.g., siblings, nieces, and nephews of the decedent)
• Paternal and maternal grandparents and their descendants (or to one side of the family if there is no surviving grandparent or descendant of a grandparent on the other side)

Finally, if there are no takers under any of the provisions mentioned above, the intestate estate passes to the state.

Other Key Considerations

In addition to these broad rules of succession, here are some important things to keep in mind about intestate inheritance in Michigan: 

• When property is distributed “by representation,” this means that the property is divided into as many equal shares as there are surviving descendants in the nearest generation that contains one or more surviving descendants (plus deceased descendants in the same generation who left surviving descendants, if any). Each surviving descendant in the nearest generation is allocated one share. The remaining shares, if any, are combined and then divided in the same manner among the surviving descendants of the deceased descendants. 
• Children of the deceased stand to inherit as long as they are legally recognized by the state — this includes adopted children, as well as children born out of wedlock. 
• For the purposes of intestate succession, an individual must survive the decedent by at least 120 hours in order to inherit.
• Under Michigan intestacy laws, a relative “of the half blood” (such as a half-sibling) inherits the same share he or she would inherit “if he or she were of the whole blood.”
• Immigration status does not affect an heir’s inheritance. Under Michigan law, an individual is not disqualified to take as an heir because he or she (or an individual through whom he or she claims) is or has been an alien.
• An individual who is related to the decedent through two lines of relationship is entitled to only a single share, based on the relationship that would entitle the individual to the larger share.
• A debt owed to a decedent is charged only against the intestate share of the debtor, and not against anyone else’s share. If the debtor predeceases the decedent, the debt is not taken into account in computing the intestate share of the debtor’s descendants.
• Property the decedent gave to an heir during his or her lifetime is only counted as an advancement against the heir’s intestate share if  the decedent or heir acknowledges in writing that the gift constitutes an advancement or should be taken into account in computing the division and distribution of the decedent’s intestate estate.

Michigan Intestacy: Stories and Examples

As you can see from the matters we’ve already discussed, intestate succession can be long, drawn-out, and quite complicated for everyone involved. This process is never easy, and it can become even more complex if the decedent has a large or complicated family tree, or if it is difficult to make contact with more distant heirs. 

To help illustrate the ins and outs of intestate succession, let’s explore some example scenarios — including a fairly straightforward intestacy case in which someone dies without a will, and one in which intestacy guidelines might run counter to a decedent’s wishes. 

By the Numbers

Sam and Alex have been married for some time. They have two grown kids, who have not yet married or had children of their own. Eventually, Sam passes away, without leaving a will. 

After taking an account of all of the solely owned property and assets that Sam left behind, the value of the intestate estate is somewhere around $320,000. In this case, Alex is entitled to receive a fixed amount from the estate — $239,000, as of 2020* — plus half of the remaining balance of the estate (which comes to $40,500). That brings Alex’s total to $279,500. The remaining amount of the estate (another $40,500) is then divided equally among Sam and Alex’s two children. 

Maintaining Control

A married couple, Felix and Sandra, stopped talking with their surviving siblings after a bitter probate court fight.

Felix and Sandra had a modest estate, and did not want for their siblings to receive any part of it. However, while Felix and Sandra understood the need to plan ahead, they kept making excuses and putting off writing their wills. Before they got around to it, Sandra passed away. Weakened by the grief from the loss of his wife, Felix passed away within the month.

With no living parents or children, their entire estate was distributed to the very people they did not want: their surviving siblings.

If you do not plan, the probate process will make important decisions for you. Felix and Sandra could have maintained control when they were gone and disinherited their siblings if they had created wills or trusts.

The Importance of Estate Planning

If you want to maintain control over your property and ensure that your wishes are followed, even when you’re gone, then it’s incredibly important to develop a comprehensive estate plan with an experienced Michigan probate attorney. 

If you become incapacitated, and even when you’re gone, estate planning keeps you in control. Estate planning is important for individuals at every stage of life. Whether you’re single, married, or cohabitating, estate planning is a powerful way to: 

• Help ensure the distribution of your assets in a manner appropriate for your circumstances
• Maximize the assets available to your beneficiaries when you have passed
• Give yourself peace of mind, knowing you minimized the stress of your circumstances for your family
• Assure your partner gets the assets and control you want them to have
• Minimize or eliminate the cost of probate fees and taxes on your estate
• Allow for immediate distribution of your assets
• Avoid disagreements and conflicts among family after you’re gone

There are a variety of tools, including wills and trusts, that assure you keep control even when you are unable to speak on your own behalf. Which instruments are used depend on the specifics of your circumstances. 

An experienced probate attorney such as our own Dean E. Patrick can help you understand the unique variables of your situation, and empower you to take the appropriate steps to protect your assets and your loved ones. Mr. Patrick’s extensive knowledge of Michigan probate ensures you will get the legal help you need when it’s time to take care of your estate planning — including writing a will, establishing a trust, creating a durable power of attorney, or understanding the ins and outs of guardianship and conservatorship. 

You Don’t Have to Go Through It All Alone

Interested in learning more about Michigan’s unique laws of intestate succession? Curious about the estate planning mechanisms that can help put you in control? 

Your Michigan probate attorney Dean E. Patrick is here to help. Mr. Patrick is a licensed Michigan lawyer specializing in probate law. He has helped hundreds with their estate planning needs, giving him the necessary knowledge to provide unparalleled legal advice and assistance that can make your life a little easier.

Whatever your situation, Mr. Patrick and his team of trial lawyers are keen on hearing your circumstance and even keener in finding a solution to a desired outcome. Contact probate attorney Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 or click here to arrange your initial consultation online.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

The passing of a loved one can be incredibly difficult — particularly when you are put in the position of helping guide their estate through Michigan’s complex and intimidating probate court system. 

In Michigan, the probate court has jurisdiction over matters that relate to the settlement of a deceased individual’s estate, including: 

• The internal affairs of the estate
•  Estate administration, settlement, and distribution
•  Declaration of rights that involve an estate, devisee, heir, or fiduciary
•  Construction of a will
•  Determination of heirs

The legal aftermath that follows when someone passes away is commonly referred to as probate or estate administration. With that said, it’s important to recognize that there are different ways to approach this process — and these proceedings may be formal or informal, supervised or unsupervised. 

What goes into supervised probate, and what factors should be considered as you look to the future and weigh all of your options? Let’s explore these important concepts in more depth. 

Formal and Informal Probate

Broadly speaking, the administration of a decedent estate can be commenced by filing an application for an informal proceeding, or a petition for a formal testacy proceeding. 

Formal administration can be supervised or unsupervised. A request for supervised administration can be made as part of a petition for formal proceedings, or requested by petition at any time. 

As defined by Michigan’s Estates and Protected Individuals Code (EPIC), “formal proceedings” are administrations conducted before a judge with notice to interested persons.

“Informal proceedings” mean proceedings for probate of a will or appointment of a personal representative conducted by the probate register without notice to interested persons.

In a nutshell, informal proceedings require much less direct interaction with the court and give the personal representative more flexibility and authority to act on behalf of the estate. As the Probate Court of Kalamazoo County notes, 

Some features of an informal probate are that no court hearings are necessary, a personal representative (sometimes referred to as an executor) is appointed by the court and given the authority to probate the estate, and most of the activities involved in probating the estate are done without court involvement.

As a result, informal proceedings are used in situations where probate is expected to be somewhat less complex — whether due to fewer creditors to the estate, fewer estate assets, or fewer disagreements or conflicts among the decedent’s survivors. 

Formal proceedings are more desirable in situations where there is a need for immediate certainty, or when there is a conflict among interested parties that court supervision can help resolve or prevent. Because a formal approach also results in an order of the court, it can provide some protection to the personal representative — allowing them to move forward with less concern of future claims against themselves or the estate.

Supervised Administration of an Estate

As noted, the administration of an estate in Michigan may also be supervised or unsupervised. As defined by EPIC, supervised administration occurs:

As a single in rem proceeding to secure complete administration and settlement of a decedent’s estate under the court’s continuing authority that extends until entry of an order approving estate distribution and discharging the personal representative or other order terminating the proceedings.

In other words, supervised administration provides a single, comprehensive, and formal settlement process, wherein the court oversees and approves of essentially all aspects of the administration process — including appointing the personal representative, making a determination of heirs, determining the validity of the decedent’s will, and approving the distribution of all estate assets. 

The personal representative or any interested person — such as an heir, devisee, or creditor to the estate — may file a petition for supervised administration at any time. A petition for supervised administration may also be joined with a petition in a formal testacy or appointment proceeding. 

Broadly speaking, the court might order supervised administration of an estate in a few different circumstances, namely: 

• If the decedent’s will directs supervised administration (unless the court finds that circumstances bearing on the need for supervised administration have changed since the execution of the will and that supervised administration is not necessary)
• If the decedent’s will directs unsupervised administration, the court will only order supervised administration “on a finding that it is necessary for protection of persons interested in the estate”
• In other cases, the court can also order supervised administration if it finds it to be “necessary under the circumstances”

Unless otherwise restricted by a court order, a supervised personal representative generally has all the standard duties and powers afforded to a personal representative — with the significant exception that the PR “shall not exercise the power to make a distribution of the estate without prior court order.” This includes partial distributions. 

Under Michigan Court Rules, a supervised personal representative must also file some additional documents with the court and serve copies on the interested persons, including some additional accountings, notices, affidavits, and any other documents “as are ordered by the court.”

An estate being handled through supervised administration must be closed by an order for complete estate settlement. The personal representative or another interested person may petition to terminate supervision of administration at any time during the supervised administration. 

When Might Supervised Administration Be Considered?

As noted above, supervised administration may be ordered when it is deemed “necessary for protection of persons interested in the estate,” or when it is directed by the decedent’s will. 

With that in mind, it is important to note that supervised administration is not necessarily common. As a writing by the Probate Court of Kalamazoo County puts it succinctly, “only a very small percentage of decedent’s estates go through supervised proceedings.”

Supervised administration is generally more complex, more demanding, and more time consuming than other types of proceedings, including unsupervised formal probate. Unsupervised administration offers more flexibility to personal representatives, and, because there is less involvement from the court, this process often moves more swiftly; costs less in filing fees and other expenses; and typically offers a greater level of privacy to all parties associated with the estate. 

Still, these proceedings certainly have their place. Supervised administration may be considered if the decedent’s estate is particularly large, valuable, or complex. This type of estate administration may also be necessary when there is an interested party who is considered a protected person, such as an heir or beneficiary who has a disability. What’s more, supervised administration can help minimize the potential for disputes, conflicts, and claims against the estate in some cases. Because of the strict oversight of the court, there is less of a possibility that estate assets will be mishandled or neglected — which can provide some much-needed peace of mind.

As the Probate Court of Kent County notes in a writing: 

Supervised administration does force the personal representative to operate within a formal structure and it may give heirs and devisees some comfort to know that the personal representative is responsible to the court.

The post continues: 

The advantages and disadvantages should be discussed with an attorney and the choice should be made based upon the circumstances of each estate.

These are complex matters, and the way forward is not always immediately clear. An experienced local probate attorney can help you gain a better understanding of the crucial distinctions between the different types of estate administration proceedings available in Michigan, while also helping you navigate the entire process from beginning to end with guidance and answers tailored to your specific circumstances.  

Looking to Learn More About Supervised Administration or Other Aspects of Michigan Probate?

Coming to terms with a loved one’s passing is a difficult and emotional process – and one that is only made more fraught when you need to deal with intricate legal matters at the same time. Throughout this trying time, it’s important to have an experienced and professional advocate on your side, one who can patiently help you understand the ins and outs of probate and estate administration in your area.

Attorney Dean E. Patrick can provide the assistance and support that you need as an estate is guided through the Michigan probate courts — whether through formal, informal, or supervised proceedings. 

At the Patrick & Associates, PLLC., we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies as we help you navigate probate and estate administration, including (but certainly not limited to) general probate litigation, will and trust contests, beneficiary disputes, guardianships, and conservatorships.

If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, we will work hard to accomplish your goals – while providing the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism your matter deserves at every step of the way.

Have any more questions about different methods of estate administration? Ready to get started? Contact Mr. Patrick at his Southfield office at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation. Our staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions and help you with your legal matters.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 are one of the most cost-effective ways to plan for the distribution of your estate. If you do not choose, the State makes those crucial decisions for you — and your most treasured assets may end up being distributed in a way that does not align with your wishes and goals. 

Meanwhile, a will also offers other practical benefits. This simple tool can empower you to nominate someone you trust to handle your affairs in the probate court; nominate a guardian to handle the care, custody, and control of your minor children; and nominate a conservator to handle the financial affairs of your minor or incapacitated adult children or loved ones. 

Wills facilitate the probate process and, if executed properly, can help to avoid or minimize the potential for contests and prevent family disagreements after you are gone. 

Simply put, a will is a way to take care of those you love and all that you have worked hard for. As with other important estate planning mechanisms, it is important to remember that a will is not necessarily a “set it and forget it” document. We all acquire assets and undergo countless changes over the course of a lifetime. Along the way, it is important to regularly reassess your will and other estate planning tools, to assure that they reflect your circumstances and your goals. 

Updating, Amending, or Replacing a Last Will

Broadly speaking, there are two primary ways to update or amend a will in Michigan:

• to add a codicil or similar writing that clarifies or modifies some or all of the existing will, or
• to revoke and replace the existing will by creating a new one

Let’s explore both of these processes in a bit more depth: 

Supplementing or Updating a Will With a Codicil

Black’s Law Dictionary defines a codicil as:

an addition or supplement to a will, either to add to, take from, or alter the provisions of the will.

In other words, you may think of a codicil as an amendment to a will. It may revise or update some portion of the existing will, or provide additional supplemental information. Generally speaking, a formal codicil is considered to be valid if it follows the same standards used to execute the original will. That is:

• Put in writing
• Signed by the testator or in the testator’s name by some other individual in the testator’s conscious presence and by their direction
• Signed by at least two individuals, each of whom signed within a reasonable time after he or she witnessed either the signing of the will (or the testator’s acknowledgment of that signature or acknowledgment of the will)

With that said, it is important to remember that Michigan law also acknowledges other writings intended as wills, even if they were not necessarily executed in compliance with the guidelines above. This means that a document may be considered valid if a proponent can establish, by clear and convincing evidence, that the decedent intended the writing to constitute a partial or complete revocation of their will; an addition to or alteration of their will; or a partial or complete revival of a formerly revoked will. 

Under Michigan law, there may also be other ways to modify or update an existing will without formally replacing it — such as updating a separate writing referred to in the will, which identifies the distribution of certain types of tangible personal property. This writing,

may be referred to as one to be in existence at the time of the testator’s death; it may be prepared before or after the execution of the will; it may be altered by the testator after its preparation; and it may be a writing that has no significance apart from its effect on the dispositions made by the will.

To be admissible as evidence of intended disposition, the writing must be either in the testator’s handwriting or signed by the testator at the end, and must describe the items and the intended devisees with reasonable certainty. 

You don’t have to deal with these confusing guidelines alone. An experienced estate planning attorney can help you understand and address all of the legal formalities associated with amending, revising, or updating a will, and help you to execute a writing or document that works for your circumstances. A knowledgeable legal professional can also help you to consider all of your options, which may include revoking an existing will and creating a new one to replace it. 

Replacing a Prior Will by Creating a New One

In order to help mitigate the potential for contests or confusion, it may be advisable to write an entirely new will, and expressly revoke the existing one in the process. 

Generally speaking, a will prepared with the assistance of an attorney will contain language to the effect of: “This is my will and I revoke any prior wills and codicils.”  When executed properly, this means that the current document nullifies previous writings. 

Previous wills may also be revoked through the execution of a subsequent will that revokes the previous will “by inconsistency.” Under Michigan law, the testator is presumed to have intended a subsequent will to replace rather than supplement a previous will if the newer will “makes a complete disposition of the testator’s estate.” If this presumption arises and “is not rebutted by clear and convincing evidence,” then the previous will is revoked, and only the most recent will is operative upon the testator’s death.

To prevent any confusion stemming from having multiple documents, the testator or another person acting on their direction may also intentionally perform “a revocatory act on the will” — including “burning, tearing, canceling, obliterating, or destroying the will or a part of the will.”

As you consider revoking and replacing your will, remember that an attorney can be an invaluable partner — helping you to execute these documents effectively and completely, while taking time to consider the specifics of your unique circumstances. 

“When Do I Need to Review or Update My Will?”

Setting up a will isn’t always the most pleasant thing to think about — so it’s no surprise that many people are reluctant to go back and review their will over time. Indeed, many individuals will simply set their wills aside, perhaps for years or decades on end. 

However, it’s important to remember that your life is always moving forward, and your circumstances are always changing. After a few years, you may wish to name a new guardian for your children or nominate a new personal representative. You may want to change who you list as a beneficiary, and how much of an inheritance you leave behind. 

As a result, it’s helpful to make reviewing your will a regular practice. Sometimes, life events can actually make the provisions you set down in your will obsolete or outdated — say, if you are predeceased by one of your beneficiaries, or if you sell or dispose of an asset before you pass away. Similarly, changes in your personal, professional, or financial situation may cause you to rethink things, and make choices that differ from what’s set down in your documents. 

Generally speaking, it is a sound practice to consult with your estate planning attorney to review potential additions or changes to your will every few years. 

A number of life events may also be cause to review and revise your estate plan, including: 

• The death of a loved one (particularly an individual named in your will to receive estate assets)
• Marriage or divorce 
• Acquiring new assets
• Disposing of assets listed in your will
• Experiencing a significant change in the value of your property
• The birth or adoption of children and grandchildren
• Minors reaching the age of majority 
• The incapacitation of a loved one 
• Significant changes in your personal relationships 

The Importance of Working With an Experienced Estate Planning and Wills Attorney

Considering the importance of reviewing or updating your will? Looking to create an estate plan that will suit your long-term goals? Don’t hesitate to get in touch with our Attorney Dean E. Patrick to continue the conversation. 

Mr. Patrick can help you set a plan for yourself and your loved ones. His knowledge of Michigan probate law ensures you will get the legal help you need when it’s time to take care of your estate planning, including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney. 

Mr. Patrick has the experience to walk you through the entire process of creating or reviewing a last will that will truly protect your family, and ensure that property is handled in the manner you decide. 

The only things that go away with time are snowflakes, youth, and opportunities. You have an opportunity to plan for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t let it pass.

At Patrick & Associates, PLLC, we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies as we help you prepare for the future. 

Have any more questions? Ready to get started? Contact Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield office at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 crucial decisions? While thinking about estate planning is not always the most enjoyable experience, it’s an incredibly important step forward — one that can help make things easier for your loved ones, protect your finances, and help keep you in control of the things that matter most.

Estate planning involves using a variety of tools — including wills, trusts, and powers of attorney — to assure you can maintain control, even when you are unable to speak on your own behalf. The instruments that you use will depend on the specifics of your circumstances. 

A crucial part of crafting your last will is to nominate the individual that you wish to serve as the personal representative for your estate. (This role is often known as the executor of the estate, in many other states outside of Michigan). The personal representative is the person tasked with guiding your estate through the probate courts, following the directions set down by your will.  A personal representative is a fiduciary, meaning that they have a duty to put the interests of the estate before their own. Depending on the specific circumstances of the estate, a personal representative will take on many crucial duties, including: 

• Collecting, inventorying, managing, and protecting estate assets
• Notifying and paying creditors of the estate
• Providing an accounting of estate assets
• Communicating with all interested parties to the estate, as necessary
• Handling payments to and from the estate, including tax obligations
• Making distributions to the appropriate parties
• Closing the estate

You need someone in place that can handle these many responsibilities. Often, married people choose their spouse to serve as their personal representative. Children or close family members are also often called on to handle the responsibility. For those who can’t rely on family or friends, who don’t want to burden their loved ones with a difficult estate, or who want to bring on an impartial outsider, a professional personal representative is also a viable option. 

Curious about who in your life should be considered as a personal representative? Here are some questions to ask as you weigh this important estate planning decision:

Are They Trustworthy and Reliable?

Being a fiduciary requires a high level of trustworthiness and skill. As the State Bar of Michigan once put it: 

A PR must not only be honest and impartially fair but must also be diligent, responsible, and prudent in the completion of his or her legally imposed obligations.

Do you trust your nominated personal representative to put the needs of the estate above their own? Will they make decisions that are truly in the best interests of your estate and its named beneficiaries? Are they capable of handling the complex financial matters that can go into handling an estate — from creating an inventory of assets, to paying creditors, to managing investments and maximizing the value of the estate assets? 

Do you trust them to consult with experienced professionals to handle these important matters, such as a local attorney, accountant, or financial manager? Will they invest the time and attention that complex estate matters may require? For that matter, do you trust that they will be willing and able to serve as your personal representative in the first place?

As you start to consider choosing a personal representative, or any other fiduciary — such as a a guardian or trustee — it is important to remember that this process is not about making people feel equal. It is about ensuring your wishes are respected and carried out when you no longer have a say in the matter. The most important thing about choosing your personal representative is that they are the truly best choice for your circumstances. 

Are They Accessible and Easy to Communicate With?

From notifying and responding to creditors; to passing relevant information and updates along to friends and family of the decedent; to staying in close contact with the court during formal or supervised administration proceedings, the personal representative will be responsible for handling a lot of communication. 

As the State Bar puts it: 

While a PR will likely employ an attorney or other professionals to assist with the estate’s administration, the PR is still ultimately responsible for ‘getting the job done.’ … It is very important that a PR timely communicate with and respond to any inquiries of beneficiaries and others who have an interest in the estate as it progresses.

Is this someone who you can count on to be patient and fair when it comes to communicating with all of the parties involved in estate administration? Is this someone who you can communicate effectively with now, and with whom you feel comfortable discussing sensitive matters like the location of your essential estate planning documents or the types of probate assets that will be involved in your estate?

Are They Organized and Efficient?

The probate process can be quick and painless, or time-intensive and tedious. Part of this depends on the actions you take to simplify, streamline, or avoid probate while you have the chance. But it’s also important to keep in mind that probate can drag on if the personal representative doesn’t meet important deadlines, procrastinates on important decisions, makes small unforced errors, or drops the ball on responding to communications from creditors or the courts. These little errors and mistakes can extend the estate administration process, open the door to conflicts and litigation, and slow down the transfer of many important assets — which could seriously impact your family in an already-difficult time

If You’re Choosing Multiple Representatives, Could There Be Room for Arguments or Conflict?

During the estate planning process, you may consider naming multiple people to serve as co-representatives, or setting up an estate plan that involves multiple people handling different tasks — such as naming different parties to serve as PR, conservator, trustee, and guardian. 

As you weigh these decisions, it’s important to consider the unique dynamics of your family and friends. Could dividing up these responsibilities create friction and open up the door to potential disputes or conflicts? 

As writer G.M. Filisko once put it in an article for the AARP:

Be aware of family tensions before naming co-executors or trustees… Instead of focusing on ‘being fair’ to your children [or other family members] aim to prevent family conflict.

When Was the Last Time You Updated Your Estate Plan?

The only constant over the course of a lifetime is change. For this reason, it’s important to regularly review and update your estate plan, in order to ensure that it truly reflects your current goals. 

This may include revisiting who you are naming to serve as personal representative, particularly if you’ve experienced a change in your personal relationships or family circumstances, such as divorce, estrangement, or the passing of a loved one. 

It is also important to consider naming a successor personal representative, in case your first choice is no longer willing or able to serve. 

Meanwhile, it may also be worth revisiting these important decisions if you acquire new assets, or if your estate becomes more complex for one reason or another. Remember, choosing a personal representative is about choosing the best possible person to manage your estate and fulfill your wishes; this means choosing the person you can trust to capably and expeditiously see their many responsibilities through to the end.

Are They Located Close to the Probate Court?

While physical proximity isn’t necessarily a “make or break” factor in naming a personal representative, it is worth considering — particularly depending on the goals of your will. In particular, if your personal representative will need to gather and catalog a lot of physical assets, or you anticipate them spending a lot of time dealing with matters in the courts, it may be beneficial to turn these important duties over to a trusted adviser who lives in your neighborhood — versus a family member located on the other side of the state (or across the country). 

Looking for Guidance for All Things Estate Planning and Probate?

If you are considering who to name as a personal representative for your estate, it may help to consult with an experienced and knowledgeable probate and estate planning attorney. A skilled and sympathetic attorney can help you understand the unique variables of your situation and create a plan that will suit your needs as you weigh this important decision, along with other crucial estate planning matters — including who to name as a successor trustee, or what powers to delegate to an agent through a durable power of attorney. 

Setting up a last will and planning ahead for probate aren’t always the most pleasant things to think about.  However, it’s very important to take action while you can. If you want to ensure your final wishes are carried out, legal help from our attorney Dean E. Patrick can make that happen. Consulting with Mr. Patricks is the first step in making sure your possessions and the people you care about are taken care of when you’re gone.

Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of Michigan probate and estate planning, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, he is here to listen, learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome – with the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism your situation requires at every step of the way.

Interested in learning more? Ready to keep the conversation going? If you have any questions, please contact our Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 to set up your initial consultation. You may also click here to get in touch online today!

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 process can either be long and arduous, quick and painless, or avoided altogether. With that said, many people often wonder just how long the probate process will take, from beginning to end. 

Realistically, the probate process generally takes less than a year — but It’s important to understand that everyone’s journey through the Michigan probate courts will be unique.

“How Long Does Probate Take in Michigan?”

Though there are always certain “benchmarks” that must be hit during estate administration — such as appointing a personal representative, notifying creditors and settling claims to the estate, distributing estate property, and closing the estate — the process is not necessarily always cut-and-dry.

Just as no two people lived the exact same lives, no two estates will ever face the exact same administration process in the courts. 

The length and complexity of probate will come down to many variables, some of which can be hard to predict and control — from the dynamics of the decedent’s family, to the amount of debt that they’re leaving behind, to the estate planning steps they took to simplify or avoid probate ahead of time.

Ultimately, consulting with an experienced and knowledgeable probate and estates attorney may be the best way to gain an understanding of the ins and outs of the process that a decedent’s estate will succumb to in the courts. An attorney can help you get a fuller sense of the probate process, and understand the key benchmarks and timelines to consider — while also addressing concerns such as estate planning and the potential for probate litigation, based on the specifics of your family’s situation. 

Based on the circumstances, completing all of the steps involved in settling an estate may take as little as a few months, or could stretch on for more than a year. The amount of time it may take to complete the probate process will depend on a variety of factors, including (but not limited to):

The size and value of the decedent’s estate

The amount of time it takes to administer an estate may depend in large part on what’s actually included in the estate. For example, it may take longer to inventory and gather estate assets that are particularly complex, such as specialized antiques or rare valuables that need to be appraised by an expert. Similarly, if the decedent owned real estate in multiple states, ancillary probate may be required, which can take time and careful management to complete. 

On the flip side, the estate administration process may be expedited if your loved one left behind a qualifying small estate, eligible for Michigan’s simplified probate procedures. It is important to consult with an attorney to determine whether or not a small estate might qualify to be distributed by court order or summary administrative proceedings. 

Meanwhile, it’s important to remember that there are several types of estate administration used in Michigan, including formal, informal, and supervised administration. The length and complexity of probate may be affected by how much court oversight will be required. 

The extent and quality of the decedent’s estate planning

Estate planning is about taking steps to prepare for what will happen to your most important assets, in the event that you become incapacitated or pass away. Estate planning may involve taking advantage of any number of tools and mechanisms, many of which — including trusts, beneficiary designations, and joint ownership — can help an individual to streamline or even avoid probate. 

As a result, the amount and quality of estate planning that a person takes on when they have the chance may impact how long the probate process will take in the future. For example, for individuals who pass away without a will, the contents of their estate will be subject to Michigan’s laws of intestate succession — essentially meaning that the state will create a will for them. Not only does this mean that one’s assets may not be distributed in line with one’s wishes, but it can also cause the probate process to drag on, particularly if there needs to be a determination of heirs. 

Even if an individual did take some estate planning steps, there may be gaps that can cause the probate process to take longer. Did they fail to account for any important assets? Did they leave room for questions, disputes, or contests to arise? Did they leave unclear or inaccurate paperwork? As an example, it is quite common to see situations where a father tells a son that he is supposed to get “X” amount of the estate — even if his will splits everything evenly. 

The actions of the personal representative and other fiduciaries

Settling an estate promptly will require the action of one or more fiduciaries — including the personal representative of the estate, as well as any trustees. 

The personal representative is the individual (or group) tasked with guiding the decedent’s estate through probate — including filing the will, collecting and inventorying assets, managing claims against the estate, paying taxes and fees, and ultimately distributing estate assets to the proper beneficiaries. 

The probate process may take longer if the decedent did not select a personal representative, meaning that one will have to be appointed. Once a personal representative has accepted the position, they must execute their duties responsibly, effectively, and faithfully. If a personal representative is not responsible about filing paperwork and meeting deadlines, this could cause the estate administration process to drag on.

Probate may also need to extend for longer if the PR (or another fiduciary, such as a trustee or conservator) commits a breach of fiduciary duty — from failing to take proper accounting of the estate, to actively stealing or mismanaging estate property. In such cases, litigation may be required to compel the fiduciary to perform their duties; to remove the fiduciary from their role; or to redress any wrongdoings. 

Contests, disputes, and other issues requiring litigation

Contests to wills, trusts, and beneficiary designations can significantly increase the amount of time it takes to complete probate administration. 

In Michigan, any interested party — including, but not limited to, an heir, a devisee named in the will, a spouse, or a child of the decedent — may challenge the validity of a will on grounds such as undue influence, fraud, incapacity, improper execution, or forgery. 

Disputes to a will may also arise if there are multiple, conflicting wills; missing documents; or notable omissions (such as the decedent’s spouse or one of their children). 

The validity of a trust can be similarly challenged, particularly if certain legal formalities are left incomplete or in question. An interested party may pursue litigation in order to terminate, modify, or reform a trust, or dispute the actions of a trustee.

Litigation may also be necessary if there is a contested guardianship or conservatorship associated with the estate. 

The number and complexity of claims against the estate

Many people tend to think about estate administration as being all about distributing the decedent’s assets. While transferring the estate assets to the decedent’s beneficiaries is certainly an important part of the process, it is also important to remember that probate is also the time to receive and settle claims against the estate. 

In Michigan, there is a set window of time during which the personal representative must reach out to known creditors, and publish notice for unknown creditors to come forward with claims. This notice must include certain relevant information, including the name of the deceased, the name of the personal representative, and the amount of time that creditors have to present their claims before they are barred. Typically, this period for notifying creditors and receiving claims lasts for roughly four months. 

In Michigan, claims against an estate are generally handled in a set order of priority, with estate administration and funeral costs taking the highest position. A fiduciary representing the estate may allow, settle, or disallow a claim. Claims can be contested, particularly if a creditor wishes to dispute the disallowance of a claim, or if a fiduciary must challenge an unreasonable, illegitimate, or inappropriate claim. 

Probate Can Be Complicated. You Don’t Need to Go Through This Difficult Time Alone.

Curious about how long the probate process may take for yourself or a loved one? Interested in learning more about the actions you can take to simplify, streamline, or avoid probate in Michigan? 

As you deal with these important questions, it’s helpful to have an experienced and professional advocate on your side, one who can patiently help you understand the ins and outs of the probate process in your area.

Whether you are a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, an omitted child, or a widow/widower, an experienced probate and estate attorney can help address your questions and navigate the process from beginning to end, so that you can secure the best possible outcome for your situation.

If you’re based in Michigan, Attorney Dean E. Patrick can help you gain a better understanding of probate and all that goes into it — including wills, trusts, guardianship, conservatorship, and more.

Mr. Patrick is knowledgeable on all aspects of probate, with years of experience as a practicing attorney. Whenever you’re ready to get started, Dean E. Patrick is here to listen and learn more about your circumstances, and start finding a solution to your desired outcome. If you have any probate-related issue that has interrupted your life, we will work hard to accomplish your goals – providing your matter with the expertise, empathy, intellect, and professionalism it deserves at every step of the way.

Ready to keep the conversation going? The Patrick & Associates, PLLC.. is conveniently located in Southfield, Michigan, close to both Wayne and Oakland Counties. You may click here to arrange your initial consultation or call us at (248) 663-2566 today to learn more.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 heir, a beneficiary, or have been named as a personal representative, it’s important to understand the ins and outs of the process that the deceased’s estate succumbs to in the Michigan courts — including what it takes to close or reopen a decedent estate.

Broadly speaking, the process of estate administration involves filing the deceased’s will, if there is one, with the courts. After this, a personal representative will be appointed to oversee the handling and distribution of the estate, including:

• Gathering the assets of the estate and determining their value
• Paying the decedent’s debts and final expenses from the estate
• Distributing any remaining assets to the appropriate parties, in line with the decedent’s wishes and all relevant laws

In Michigan, there are a few different ways for estate administration to proceed. “Formal” probate proceedings are those that occur in front of a judge, with notice served to interested persons; “informal” proceedings mean that the probating of a will or the appointment of a personal representative are conducted by the probate register, without notice to interested persons. 

Generally speaking, formal proceedings are desirable in situations where the estate administration process will be confusing, unclear, or contentious — particularly if there is a conflict among interested parties. Informal proceedings are used in situations where the probate process is expected to be somewhat simpler or more straightforward. Informal proceedings typically take less time to complete, and generally afford the personal representative more consultationdom to make decisions on behalf of the estate without having to receive approval from the courts. 

Estate administration may also be “supervised,” in some cases. Supervised administration refers to a single, comprehensive formal proceeding to secure complete administration and settlement of the decedent’s estate under the court’s continuing authority — extending until the entry of an order approving estate distribution and discharging the personal representative, or another order terminating the proceeding.

Once the core responsibilities of the personal representative have been completed, and any legal issues and complications have been resolved, the estate can be closed. If previously unknown assets are discovered or an unforeseen new circumstance arises down the line, the estate may be reopened by the personal representative, or another interested person.  

Closing a Decedent Estate in Michigan

In Michigan, there are a few specific processes that can be used to close a decedent’s estate, depending on the unique circumstances of the situation — such as whether the administration of the estate was supervised or unsupervised by the courts, or if the estate was testate or intestate (that is, whether or not the deceased left a valid will, or if he or she left the distribution of their assets up to Michigan’s rules for intestate succession). 

Broadly speaking, the two primary ways to close a decedent’s estate are through a petition or a sworn statement. 

Petition for Complete Estate Settlement

If an estate is being administered as a supervised estate, it must be closed by a petition for an order of complete estate settlement. An unsupervised estate may also be closed by petition, whether it was originally opened formally or informally. 

A petition for estate settlement may include an adjudication of testacy, meaning that the petitioner is requesting the court to determine testacy, if it has not previously done so.

Either a personal representative or an interested person may petition for an order of complete estate settlement. The personal representative may petition at any time, though the petition may only be accepted after the window for presenting a claim has expired. An interested person may petition after one year from the original personal representative’s appointment. 

This petition may compel the court to consider the final account; to compel or approve the personal representative’s accounting and distribution of the estate; to construe a will (or determine heirs, in the case of intestacy); and to adjudicate the estate’s final settlement and distribution. After providing notice to all interested persons and holding a hearing, the court may enter an order to determine the persons entitled to distribution of the estate; approve settlement; direct or approve estate distribution; and discharge the personal representative from further claim or demands. 

Sworn Statement

A personal representative may also close an estate through a sworn statement in unsupervised proceedings, unless prohibited by court order. This statement can be filed beginning five months after the date of the general personal representative’s original appointment, to allow time for presentation of claims. 

In order to close the estate, this sworn statement must state that the personal representative (or a previous personal representative) has: 

• Determined that notice was published and that the time limited for presentation of creditors’ claims has expired
• Fully administered the decedent’s estate by distributing the estate property to the persons entitled, and paying or settling all claims; administration and estate expenses; and taxes (such as inheritance and estate taxes). If a claim remains undischarged, the sworn statement should detail any arrangements that have been made to accommodate outstanding liabilities 
• Sent a copy of the statement to all estate distributees and to all creditors or other claimants of whom the personal representative is aware
• Furnished a full account, in writing, of the personal representative’s administration to the distributees whose interests are affected by the administration — including the amount paid out of the estate in fiduciary fees, attorney’s fees, and other professional fees

A sworn statement can also be used to close a small estate administered through summary administration, any time after disbursement and distribution of the estate. This statement must state that: 

• The value of the entire estate, less liens and encumbrances, did not exceed administration costs and expenses, reasonable funeral and burial expenses, homestead allowance, family allowance, exempt property, and reasonable, necessary medical and hospital expenses, to the best knowledge of the personal representative
• The personal representative has fully administered the estate by disbursing and distributing it to the persons entitled
• The personal representative has sent a copy of the closing statement to all estate distributees and to all creditors or other claimants of whom the personal representative is aware, and has furnished a full account in writing of the estate administration to the distributees whose interests are affected

If an objection to the sworn statement is not filed within 28 days after the filing date, the register will issue a certificate of completion, stating that the personal representative appears to have fully administered the estate in question. However, it’s important to understand that this does not necessarily preclude further actions and proceedings against estate distributees or the personal representative, though actions must be taken with an appropriate window of time. 

If you have any questions about closing an estate or attempting to recover from a personal representative or distributee — particularly on the grounds of fraud, misrepresentation, or inadequate disclosure — it is important to consult with an experienced probate litigation attorney, who can help you understand all of your options and take the appropriate steps based on your circumstances. 

Reopening a Closed Estate

Michigan law makes allowances for “subsequent administration” — that is to say, the reopening of a previously closed estate. 

Broadly speaking, an estate may be reopened after the personal representative has been discharged, or if one year has passed since a closing statement was filed. An estate may be reopened if new estate property is discovered after settlement, or if there is “other good cause” to reopen the previously administered estate — for example, if it is discovered that the estate was improperly closed or administration was left incomplete, for one reason or another. 

Any interested person, including the prior personal representative, may seek to reopen a previously closed estate. There are two methods by which an interested person can seek to have an estate reopened: by petition, or by application. Generally speaking, a petition will require a court hearing, while an application will not. If the estate was administratively closed as a supervised estate, the case can only be reopened by a petition requesting supervised administration. 

The court may appoint the same personal representative or a successor to administer the reopened estate. Generally speaking, the personal representative has the same duties for a reopened estate as they would for any other estate — determining if the decedent had a will that was not offered for probate in the previous administration; gathering estate assets, determining their value, and filing an inventory; determining if there are taxes that must be paid; preserving and distributing estate assets to the appropriate parties; keeping a close record of income and disbursements from the estate;  and closing the estate through the appropriate methods. 

It is also worth noting that any previously barred claims cannot be asserted in a subsequent administration.

Have Any More Questions About Guiding an Estate Through the Michigan Probate Courts?

Seeking assistance and support as you navigate through the Michigan probate courts? Our probate and estate attorney Dean E. Patrick is ready to stand with you. 

Mr. Patrick has years of experience as a practicing attorney and is ready to aggressively fight for you — with the skills, experience, and dedication that your legal matter deserves. 

At every step of the way, Mr. Patrick can provide reliable professional advice tailored to the specifics of your situation, whether you are a personal representative, an heir, a creditor, a named beneficiary, or a person who knows the deceased was taken advantage of before their death. 

The Patrick & Associates, PLLC. is available 24/7. Whatever your situation, Mr. Patrick is keen on hearing your circumstance and even keener in finding a solution to a desired outcome. 

Interested in getting the conversation started? Contact Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield, Michigan office at (248) 663-2566 or click here to arrange your initial consultation.

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.

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 getting started with estate planning or facing the legal aftermath following a loved one’s passing, you’re sure to encounter many unfamiliar terms and concepts along the way.

One area where there is often some confusion? In Michigan, you may come across a few different terms to refer to people who inherit or receive property from a deceased person — including heir, devisee, and beneficiary. 

While they may have some overlap depending on the unique circumstances of your situation, these three categories refer to three different ways that someone may receive property from a decedent:

• “Heir” generally refers to a person who is entitled to receive the decedent’s property under the statutes of intestate succession, the distribution process that occurs when someone passes away without a will. 
• A “devisee” is any person designated to receive real or personal property in a decedent’s will. 
• “Beneficiary” is a broad term, and may refer to a person who receives property from a trust, or anyone who receives the proceeds of an insurance or annuity policy, pension, financial account, or security with a designated “transfer on death” or “pay on death” beneficiary. This generic term also encompasses devisees, as well as donees, appointees, and any person “in whose favor a power of attorney or power held in an individual, fiduciary, or representative capacity is exercised.”

Let’s explore each of these important concepts in a bit more depth, and examine how they may come into play during estate estate planning and administration:

Heirs

Broadly speaking, an heir is going to be related to the decedent through blood, marriage, or adoption. 

An heir is anyone who would stand to inherit from the estate of the decedent if they were to pass away without a valid or complete will. In such a situation, Michigan’s statutes for intestate succession apply. 

Under Michigan law, there is a particular order of succession by which heirs stand to inherit when an individual dies intestate — as well as guidelines for how much each party might ultimately receive from the decedent’s estate. 

Generally speaking, Michigan law gives highest priority to the surviving spouse of the decedent, followed by their children and grandchildren; then their parents, siblings, nieces and nephews; and then more distant relatives. If the decedent is not survived by any heirs, then the contents of the estate will ultimately pass to the state. 

The rules for intestate succession are complex, and the process can be long and difficult — particularly if there needs to be a determination of heirs. A probate attorney can help you understand the nuances of intestate succession, and how Michigan statutes may apply in your circumstances. 

Want to control the distribution of your assets and streamline things for your loved ones down the line? Whatever stage of life you’re currently experiencing, an experienced estate planning attorney can help you take action to maintain control. Setting down a plan for your most important assets can help ensure that they will be distributed in a manner appropriate for your circumstances, while minimizing the risk for disagreements and confusion among family members after you’re gone.

Devisees

A “devisee” means a person designated in a will to receive a devise, which is defined as “a testamentary disposition of real or personal property.” 

Whereas heirs will always be family to the deceased, anyone named in a decedent’s will is considered a devisee — including friends, co-workers, and so on. 

A will is a powerful way to help you maintain control, even when you’re gone. For example? Let’s say Pat is unmarried and has no children, but has two siblings, Alex and Sam. Pat is close with Alex, but broke off contact with Sam decades ago due to a bitter personal conflict. Under the statutes of intestate succession, Alex and Sam would both receive an equal amount of Pat’s estate. A properly executed will can help Pat ensure that Alex receives a larger share, in line with her wishes, while disinheriting Sam. 

In addition, a will can help assure that someone you can rely on is appointed to handle your assets and affairs, while also ensuring that your children will have a guardian of your choosing if you are unable to raise them. Along with other estate planning mechanisms, a will is also a way to help make sure that your partner has the assets and control you want them to have.

Keep in mind that a will is subject to jurisdiction by the probate court, and a will, if there is one, must be admitted to court for estate administration to begin. A will can be contested by any interested person — including, but not limited to, an heir, a devisee named in the will, a spouse, or a child of the decedent. Grounds for contesting a will include undue influence, fraud, incapacity, improper execution, or forgery. 

If you are facing the possibility of having to defend or contest a will in the Michigan probate courts, it’s important to bring on an experienced legal professional, who can help you understand your options and aggressively advocate for your position in any contested probate matter.

Beneficiaries

“Beneficiary” is a very broad and general term. While it can be used to refer to any devisee or distributee, there are a few circumstances where “beneficiary” takes on a more significant and unique meaning — particularly in relation to nonprobate assets, such as trusts and beneficiary designations. 

Probate assets are those that are included as part of the decedent’s estate, subject to court proceedings when he or she dies. Most typically, this refers to property and assets that are owned solely by the decedent, without any co-owners or designated beneficiaries. Nonprobate assets are those that experience a nontestamentary transfer on death. Most commonly, this category includes assets with a co-owner who is legally entitled to the property; assets with a beneficiary or payable-on-death designation; and assets held in a revocable living trust. 

Assets with that are set up with a designated beneficiary — typically known as a “pay on death” (POD) or “transfer on death” (TOD) beneficiary — are transferred directly to the named beneficiary (or beneficiaries) upon the death of the account owner or policy holder, outside of probate. Common examples of assets with beneficiary designations include retirement accounts, life insurance policies, bank accounts, investment accounts, pension plans, and other securities. 

A trust beneficiary is a person who has a present or future beneficial interest in a trust, vested or contingent. A person may also be considered a trust beneficiary if they hold “power of appointment” over trust property in a capacity other than as trustee or trust director. 

Trusts and beneficiary designations are important components of the estate planning process to keep in mind. There are many different types of trusts that can be utilized to help you meet your goals. Consulting with an experienced estate planning attorney about trusts, beneficiary designations, and other types of nonprobate transfers can help you to maximize the assets available to your beneficiaries when you have passed, minimize or eliminate the cost of probate fees, allow for immediate distribution of your assets, and help ensure that inheritance does not become a detriment to your beneficiaries.

Like wills, trusts and beneficiary designations can be contested, under certain circumstances. For example, an interested party can pursue litigation in order to terminate, modify, or reform a trust, or dispute the actions of a trustee.

If you are facing the need to contest or defend the validity of a trust or the actions of a trustee, do not hesitate to get in touch with an experienced probate litigation attorney to get the expert guidance your matter deserves.

Want to Discuss Any Element of Michigan Estate Planning and Probate?

Interested in learning more about the differences between heirs, beneficiaries, and devisees, and how each of these important concepts may affect you? Curious about any aspect of estate planning, or the legal process your estate may succumb to in court during probate? 

Whether you are currently dealing with the legal aftermath following the passing of a loved one, or are ready to find ways to make estate administration more efficient for your friends and family down the line, our firm is here and ready to help.

At the Patrick & Associates, PLLC., we put our legal experience and skills together with our commitment to excellence in representing your rights. You can depend on our law firm’s ability to listen to you and our talent for creative strategies as we help you navigate estate planning and probate, including (but not limited to) general probate litigation, wills and trusts contests, beneficiary disputes, guardianships, and conservatorships.

Have any more questions? Ready to get started? Our staff is available 24/7 to answer any questions and help you with your legal matters. Contact Dean E. Patrick at his Southfield office at (248) 663-2566, or click here to arrange your initial consultation. 

This post has been prepared for general information purposes only. The information you obtain here is not, nor is it intended to be, legal advice. You should consult an attorney for advice regarding your individual situation. We invite you to contact us and welcome your calls and electronic mail.  Accessing the content of this site does not create an attorney-client relationship.  Nor, does contacting us create an attorney-client relationship. Please do not send any confidential information to us until such time as an attorney-client relationship has been established.