Oakland County Probate, Trusts & Estate Planning Lawyers
Helping Clients With Probate, Trusts & Estate Planning in Michigan
You’ve worked hard for your assets and property, and it is important that they, and your family and heirs, are protected. A well-drafted estate plan can not only help you plan for the future, but it can also save your loved one’s time, stress, and money after you have passed.
When one dies intestate, or without a will or trust, their property may have to go through the probate process, which can be a long and emotional battle for the deceased loved ones, particularly if the death was unexpected. Our Oakland County probate, trusts & estate planning lawyers are dedicated to providing the comprehensive support you need to manage these critical aspects of life.
Planning for tomorrow today can provide you the peace of mind you need. Lady4Justice PLLC can help you draft important documents, guide your through probate, and explain your options. Call (248) 773-3317 or contact us online today.
Understanding Estate Planning
Estate planning involves the strategic organization of your assets and wishes to ensure that your loved ones are taken care of after your passing. It encompasses a range of documents and decisions, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
Importance of a Will
A will is a fundamental document in any estate plan. It outlines how your assets will be distributed upon your death and can designate guardians for minor children. Without a will, your estate may be subject to Michigan's intestacy laws, which dictate how your assets are divided without considering your specific wishes. This can lead to complications and disputes among family members.
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.
Why Hire Our Firm
Client-Focused Representation from Start to Finish-
Over Four Decades of Experience
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High Quality Legal Service Focused on Results
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Trusted Guidance That Exceeds Expectations
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Always Keeping Your Best Interests in Mind
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Offering Flexible Payment Plans to Clients in Need