Oakland County Probate, Trusts & Estate Planning Lawyers

Creating Trusts to Protect Your Estate

Transferring your real property into a trust can help it avoid probate, if there is no contest over the property in the trust by the heirs or beneficiary. In a trust, you designate a reliable individual, known as the Successor Trustee, to distribute your property and manage any final debts after your death.

The best way to keep your assets out of probate court and make sure they go directly to the ones you want to receive them is to set up a living trust. This document is revocable during your lifetime, and it will completely bypass the court process after you are gone. This allows your loved ones to focus on what really matters to them after your death: Loving memories of you.

There are various types of trusts, each serving different purposes:

• Revocable Living Trusts: These trusts allow you to retain control over your assets during your lifetime while ensuring a smooth transition upon your passing. You can amend or revoke the trust as needed.
• Irrevocable Trusts: Once established, these trusts cannot be changed or dissolved without the consent of the beneficiaries. They can be beneficial for tax planning and asset protection.
• Special Needs Trusts: Designed for individuals with disabilities, these trusts help maintain eligibility for government benefits while providing additional financial support.

Other Estate Planning Tools

In addition to your living trust, our firm can help you with other important documents, including:

• Your last will and testament, or a “pour-over will” when drafted in conjunction with your trust, which can contain provisions for the care of minor children.
• A power of attorney for your financial needs, should you become incapacitated and unable to pay important bills.
• An advanced health care directive or medical power of attorney that directs a trusted individual to make health-related decisions on your behalf, should you be unable to do so, as well as relays your wishes about your care, including organ donation, burial, and resuscitation.

We offer many solutions to ensure that your wishes are followed, with a minimum amount of paperwork and an absence of court intervention. Whether you seek to avoid probate with a solid estate plan, or have recently lost a loved one and need guidance through the probate process, our firm is here to help with whatever you may need. We look forward to serving you.

Navigating the Probate Process

Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone passes away. It involves validating the deceased's will, if one exists, and distributing their assets according to their wishes. The probate process can be complicated, and having knowledgeable Oakland County probate, trusts and estate planning attorney on your side can help navigate these challenges.

Contact Us Now For Your Estate Planning Needs

If you are considering estate planning, need assistance with probate, or have questions about trusts, the team at Lady4Justice PLLC is here to help. Our Oakland County probate lawyers are dedicated to providing you with the legal support you need to protect your interests and those of your loved ones.

Reach out today to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward securing your family’s future.

Complete our contact form or call (248) 773-3317 for a free consultation with our probate, trusts, and estate planning lawyer in Oakland County.

Local Estate Administration Support in Oakland County

In Oakland County, navigating the complexities of estate administration can be particularly challenging, especially when dealing with the emotional aftermath of losing a loved one. Local resources, such as the Oakland County Probate Court, are available to assist families through the probate process, but many residents find the legalities overwhelming. Our team understands the unique pain points faced by families in our community, from unexpected medical expenses to the stress of managing family dynamics during a difficult time.

Many residents in cities like Troy, Farmington Hills, and Southfield may be unaware of how Michigan's intestacy laws can impact their loved ones if they pass away without a will. This can lead to disputes among family members and delays in asset distribution. We are here to help you create a comprehensive estate plan that reflects your wishes and protects your family's future.

Additionally, Oakland County offers various community resources, including the Oakland County Bar Association, which provides legal assistance and educational programs to help residents understand their rights and options. We encourage you to take advantage of these resources while also seeking personalized guidance from our team to ensure your estate plan is tailored to your specific needs.

Whether you are in the heart of Pontiac or the suburbs of West Bloomfield, we are committed to helping you navigate the estate administration process with compassion and clarity. Our goal is to alleviate the burden on your family during this challenging time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—cherishing the memories of your loved ones.