When someone dies, probate is the legal process that refers to the distribution of the decedent's assets. The complexity of probate depends on the size of the estate and other factors. Not all assets go through probate, and the personal representative is the person in...
Probate
Are you prepared to act as estate executor?
If your parents, a sibling, or a loved one has asked if you will be the executor for their Michigan estate, you may wonder what that entails. On the one hand, it indicates how much they trust you to follow their wishes. On the other hand, making arrangements to...
What do you know about avoiding probate?
You want to ensure your beneficiaries receive what you left them in your will as quickly as possible, but you know probate could prolong the process. How far out of your way should you go to avoid probate? American Bar Association explains reasons probate takes time....
What is the role of a probate attorney?
A probate attorney can help you in many ways whether you are the person creating an estate or handling the estate after the person’s death. This type of attorney focuses mainly on ensuring the probate process goes smoothly and problems do not occur. You do not have to...
How the probate process pays debts and distributes assets
Probate includes paying a deceased's remaining debts before distributing his or her assets to heirs. As noted by the Michigan Court Rules website, an estate's personal representative must publish a notice informing creditors of the name of the deceased and the date of...
Reducing inheritance conflict among siblings
When you have more than one child, it may bring you comfort to think about your kids coming together and leaning on one another after your passing. However, in some cases, inheritance conflicts throw a wrench in the works and result in children facing off against one...
What should executors know about the probate process?
Being named the executor of a loved one's will is a huge responsibility. That is why you must ensure you are fully prepared for the many tasks involved. According to Kiplinger, executors are responsible for paying debts, dispersing assets, and handling estate...
Can small estates skip probate?
You have likely heard horror stories from people forced to endure a prolonged probate process. Indeed, these tales probably have you nervous about enduring a similar episode following the death of a loved one in Michigan. It is true that probate can linger, and that...
How should your executor prepare to close your estate?
While planning for estate administration, you keep thinking about the person in charge of closing your affairs. What tips should you consider for yourself and your executor? Kiplinger offers guidance on how estate creators and their executors may prepare for the...
What do you know about avoiding probate?
While you know little about estate administration in Michigan, you know you want to avoid probate at all costs. What does that look like? Forbes offers strategies for circumventing the judicial process. Take steps to ensure your heirs and beneficiaries receive their...