Kalamazoo Probate Lawyer
When a trust is established, it is important that a dependable trustee is appointed and that you have a clear understanding of your rights and obligations. If you are a beneficiary, you want to be certain that you are protected and that a trust is managed responsibly. At Michigan Estate Lawyers, our legal team is dedicated to representation through the creation of trusts and through administration.
Our law firm is dedicated to a Christian model of service with a mission to protect clients as they make the best decisions for their family and future. Let us guide you with dignity and discretion.
Call 866-473-5636 or contact us by e-mail for a consultation with a Grand Rapids trust administration lawyer.
Creation of Trusts and the Appointment of Trustees
If you decide to set up a trust, you should appoint a dependable person to serve as the trustee. You should make sure the person you select is willing and able to take on the responsibilities of being a trustee. Qualities to look for when choosing a trustee include the following:
- Ability to represent your interests fully
- Absence of a conflict of interest
- Confidence to handle challenges against your estate
- Basic facility with financial matters
- Personal time to dedicate to your trust administration
Our legal team provides advice on the selection of a trustee and offers guidance to chosen trustees about their fiduciary obligations. We also serve as trustees when requested.
Business Transfers and Family Business Succession
Trusts can be useful in transferring a business upon the owner's death. At Michigan Estate Lawyers, we strive to ensure the smooth transition of a business to a person's heirs and minimize the time and expense associated with probate. The firm knows the rules and regulations associated with transferring a business:
- Settling outstanding affairs of the business
- Closing the business accounts
- Liquidating business properties
- Transferring assets to heirs
We have extensive experience as business owners and as executives of multimillion-dollar companies (measured in revenue or assets). Our managing partner, Michael J. Willis, is also a certified public accountant (CPA) and Partner Chris Brown holds a Masters in Taxation. Upon request, the firm manages your family's business and hires money managers to handle your estate's liquid assets.
Advocacy for Trustees and Executors
When you are appointed as a trustee, the trust lawyers at Michigan Estate Lawyers, Attorneys & Counselors, guide you through the administration process. They help you keep up with all of your fiduciary duties:
- Inventorying and valuing the assets of the trust
- Paying creditors of the estate and trust
- Identifying and distributing property to trust beneficiaries
- Handling tax issues related to the trust
- Preparing annual trust accounts
For a free consultation, please call our Grand Rapids, Michigan, lawyers toll free at 866-473-5636 or contact us by e-mail to submit a question about your case.
Grand Rapids Office
Kalamazoo Office
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