Kalamazoo Wills Lawyer
Wills and trusts are the building blocks of estate planning. There are various options and planning alternatives that can help you accomplish your individual planning goals. At Michigan Estate Lawyers, we understand that the process can be difficult and even complicated. We will take the time to answer your questions and address your unique challenges. Our priority is to help you implement these legal documents to establish a solid foundation for your family's future.
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 attorney.
Wills and Probate
A will is a legal document, and probate is the process that your will goes through upon your death. In your will, you designate an executor (or personal representative) and your beneficiaries. The executor will be responsible for probate administration, and the beneficiaries will receive the property that you designate for them to inherit. Our attorneys will help you decide which family member, friend or professional is best suited to be appointed as executor of your will.
Our estate planning attorneys handle the creation of:
- Wills and trusts
- Advanced directives
- Guardianships and conservatorships
Probate
Probate court examines your will and establishes its validity. If you work with our attorneys, you can be confident that it will be recognized as a legally valid document at probate. Before your property is distributed, the executor of your will must attend to the debts of the estate:
- Creditors are paid for their claims
- Administration fees are paid
- Estate taxes are paid
Your beneficiaries will receive the property that you have assigned to them after this initial process of probate administration.
Revocable Living Trusts
Sometimes a revocable living trust is used to avoid the costs of probate. This type of trust takes effect during your life. You can retain control over the property you place in the trust by naming yourself as the trustee. Then you name a successor trustee to take over trust administration upon your death. We help you set up a revocable living trust and show you how to transfer the title of your property to it. The property becomes unavailable for probate because it legally belongs to the trustees of the trust.
"Michael has assisted our family with a number of estate planning related matters over the past several years. He consistently impressed me with his technical expertise, professionalism, integrity and sincere desire to serve his clients at a level that exceeds their expectations. This desire to serve also exhibits itself in the work that he and his colleagues do in the community. On a personal and professional level, Michael has earned my respect and strong recommendation." — Jim B., 6/13/10
See what others are saying about our firm.
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
Paw Paw Office
