If you’ve ever questioned the difference between guardianships and powers of attorney for seniors, you’re not alone. As a Michigan elder lawyer, I often field questions about these two distinct yet related legal mechanisms. Here’s an explanation to help you understand the nuances of each. Guardianships Explained Guardianships typically come into play when an… Read more »
For many retirees, dividing time between two beloved locations is the dream. Known as “snowbirds,” these individuals enjoy northern US states in the summer before flocking to warmer climes come winter. While this lifestyle has many advantages, it can significantly impact the distribution of your assets when you pass away. For instance, your home… Read more »
Inheriting assets is a mix of honor and responsibility. As a Michigan probate lawyer, I’ve seen many people unprepared for the implications of managing their inheritance. The inclination to treat an inheritance as “bonus” money is common, but there are many pragmatic ways to use these funds for future benefits. Integrating Inheritance into Your… Read more »
Going through a divorce is an emotionally charged, challenging process. Amid the whirlwind of legal proceedings, contacting an estate planning attorney might not be at the top of your to-do list—but it should be. A divorce, often referred to as dissolution of marriage, can stretch over several months, sometimes even years. During this period,… Read more »
As a Michigan will lawyer, one question I often receive is whether a person with a life estate can rent the property to others. A life estate is a type of legal arrangement in which an individual, known as a life tenant, is given the right to use a property for their lifetime. After… Read more »
As an elder lawyer serving Michigan, I often counsel families grappling with the challenges of caring for a loved one with dementia. A common and particularly distressing symptom of dementia is sundowning, characterized by increased confusion, agitation, and restlessness during the late afternoon and evening. Understanding what happens during sundowning and when to seek… Read more »
As an Michigan estate planning lawyer, I often receive questions about the roles and responsibilities of an executor and a power of attorney (POA), especially in situations where a loved one is no longer living at home. A question I recently received encapsulates a common misunderstanding: “My mom is in a nursing home and… Read more »
Leveraging Life Insurance for Your Estate Plan: Insights from an Estate Lawyer in Michigan One common misconception when it comes to estate planning is the belief that one must have significant assets to establish a comprehensive plan. As an estate lawyer in Michigan, I’m here to tell you that this simply isn’t the case. In… Read more »
When Your Executor Isn’t Meeting Expectations: How to Handle Mistakes in Estate Administration in Michigan The executor of an estate plays a crucial role in managing and distributing a person’s assets after they pass away. But what happens when the executor is making mistakes or failing in their duties of estate administration in Michigan? It’s… Read more »
Understanding the Complexities of Estate Planning: A Comprehensive Guide From Michigan Estate Planning Attorneys Estate planning can seem daunting with its complex terminology and numerous components. But don’t worry, this guide from our Michigan estate planning attorneys guide is here to help you navigate the basics. What exactly is estate planning? Let’s define the term… Read more »
