Detroit Probate Administration Lawyers

Since April 2000, probate in Michigan is simpler than it used to be. However, it still entails multiple legal filings and many other responsibilities. Our Detroit estate administration lawyers act on behalf of heirs and personal representatives (formerly called “executors”), handling all phases of the process. If you have recently lost a family member and would like assistance with an estate that will be handled in a Michigan probate court, contact our firm to make arrangements for an initial consultation.

What To Know About Intestate Probate

If you pass away without a will, then the court will distribute the estate according to Michigan’s intestate succession laws. If you are married, your assets will pass to your spouse. If you are not married, your assets will pass to your children, or, if you do not have children, to your parents. However, before your estate passes to your next of kin, it will go through a lengthy court process. This can be incredibly expensive and time-consuming for your loved ones. It is much better to create a will to designate your beneficiaries and avoid probate.

Unsupervised Probate

In Michigan, probate is usually “unsupervised” – which provides a flexible and inexpensive process where the appointed administrator on behalf of the estate identifies heirs, manages assets, pays debts, files income tax returns, files required documents with the probate court, and distributes the assets according to the terms of the will. The process may be concluded in six months, or may take years, depending on the complexity of the estate.

Supervised Probate And Probate Courts

At any time, usually when an heir or potential heir expresses a concern about the administration of the estate, the court can require that the process be “supervised.” In supervised probate, every detail of administration of the estate must be approved by the probate judge.

The probate courts not only supervise the administration of post-death estates, they also may become involved in the administration of trusts and appointing and supervising guardians and conservators for children and adults who are not able to manage their own affairs. At Prince Law Firm our attorneys assist clients with all types of probate litigation, helping them resolve disputes involving matters handled in probate court. We also offer a wide range of estate planning services to help families avoid such conflict and uncertainty.

Prince Law Firm Is At Your Service

Pat Prince and Shaheen Imami are both trained mediators, and offer a full range of alternative dispute resolution (ADR) services. To learn how we can put our mediation skills to work for you as probate or estate administrators, call us today at 248-419-1968 or use our online contact form.