With the death of a loved one, emotions can run high, and the process of sorting out the estate can seem overwhelming. In many cases, family members may not agree on how to divide the estate, or they may even feel that maleficence is at play. Uncovering the most...
Estate Litigation
3 relatives who may be vulnerable to undue influence
If your relatives have written a will, they have probably done more estate planning than most of their neighbors. After all, 62% of Americans have no will at all. Having a will, though, does not do your loved ones much good if the document does not reflect their...
Can you prevent a contested will?
As you work on your estate plan in Michigan, you may worry about any potential drama that occurs after you die. How can you prevent it? Is there any way to prevent a contested will? Do not keep your will a complete secret. While you should not brag about your estate...
Choosing and setting up the right trust for you
When setting up their final affairs in Michigan, many people consider a trust. Trusts are attractive for a number of reasons. They may hold off estate taxes and may prevent assets from passing through probate. Trusts also help to safeguard the financial interests of...
Is someone trying to exert undue influence over your mom?
Your mother has been careful about keeping the family estate intact, just the way your dad left it to her when he died. Now she suddenly wants to change her will. You suspect a distant cousin who has recently entered your mom’s life may be trying to influence...
When should you contest a will?
Grandma always said she was going to leave you her heirloom jewelry and Grandpa promised you the 1965 Thunderbird that you helped him restore years ago. Now both your grandparents are gone. After the funeral you discover those items, along with a significant amount of...