[Video] What is Probate

Probate refers to the first step in the process of administering an estate of a deceased person. This process includes the resolution of all claims to the deceased person’s property under a will, as well as a legal determination of the will and the appointment of an executor with the power to dispose of the assets as set forth in that will.

In Michigan, probate is a legal process undertaken after a person’s death to settle their last will and testament. Probate can determine the validity of a will and ensure its execution, or, if there is no will, appoint an executor to oversee the disbursement of assets. The size and complexity of a deceased individual’s estate will likely be the primary factors in determining the length of time and amount of money spent on the probate process, but recent changes in Michigan have made it so that smaller estates are subject to far less probate regulation than they were previously.

Goldman and Associates Law Firm is here to provide you with information about Probate in The State of Michigan. Goldman and Associates has years of experience and knowledge on High Assets Divorces in Michigan. Contact us today if you have any questions regarding Probate in the State of Michigan.

[Video] How Probate Works In Michigan

What Does a Probate Attorney Do?

The decision to hire a probate attorney is one that will ensure your legal wishes are carried out to the fullest. In short, a probate lawyer will oversee that your estate and assets are properly divided how you intended them to be. Oftentimes, the same lawyer who is responsible for drawing up a will can act as the probate attorney during this process.

Now you’re wondering to yourself, do I need a probate lawyer?

The answer is, absolutely yes! If your assets and estate are important enough to you that you’d like to see your last will and testament be carried out smoothly, hiring a probate attorney to do so will complete the task with ease. Other advantages to having a probate expert administer your will include:

filing of a will / simple will
legal guardianship
conservatorship
Michigan trust
probate real estate
probate laws
living trust
legal name change / DBA

[Video] How To Prepare For Your Complimentary Phone Consultation At Goldman & Associates Law Firm

In order to have a successful consultation, it is very important that you have the necessary information at your fingertips that the attorney and court will need to evaluate your case. You should be prepared to address in general terms your assets and liabilities. We have to address debts as well such as credit card bills & student loans.

In addition to that, we must identify your goals when it comes to the children and issues relating to custody, support and parenting time. Identifying all of these issues and establishing goals during your consultation will help determine which direction we go in your case and how we will handle it. You should want to come in prepared to discuss these issues rather than make guesses for some of the questions.

[Video] Does My Spouse Automatically Get Half Of Everything In A Divorce In Michigan?

If you are wondering about if your spouse receives half of the marital assets, then the answer is usually leaning towards yes. All of the assets that were accumulated during the marriage are subject to division. If the assets were accumulated before the marriage, then that is a different story. There are certain circumstances that the court might see fit to make modifications, but this is the general format that the court will use.

[Video] How Probate Works In Michigan

The probate court was established in order to assist individuals in guardianships, conservatorships, and in a lot of cases the probate court is used to establish and resolve estates. The process begins when you file to initiate the case, and then the court will appoint a personal representative. This representative will be the main contact that the court will use instead of dealing with multiple people. In some situations, a will can often name the personal representative. Probate cases can be extremely complex and you will need an experienced lawyer to help guide you through this process.

[Video] Outlining The Divorce Process

Every individual who is contemplating filing for divorce wants to know what they can expect during the process. A standard divorce involving children can last a minimum of six months, and if there are any issues it can last 6-9 months. If there are assets involved, you should immediately inquire about how to go about protecting those assets with your attorney. Contact us today if you have any questions regarding Divorce in the State of Michigan.