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Probate

Planning Ahead Can Help Your Family

When your estate goes into probate, your assets are gathered and your estate is divided according to your will or according to Michigan law if there is no will. Once your will is in probate, it may be contested. Depending on the complexity of your estate, probate can be expensive and time-consuming.

Estate planning can simplify the process and minimize estate taxes. It is a good idea to work with an experienced lawyer who understands the probate laws in Michigan. Faupel, Fraser & Fessler, Attorneys at Law can help you with all parts of the probate process, including estate contests, litigation, and administration. To make an appointment, please call 734-418-0958 or send us an e-mail.

Trusts, Guardianships and Conservatorships

To avoid problems in probate, you may want to preplan for your family by setting up trusts, guardianships and naming conservators.

To avoid such problems as inheritance disputes, you may wish to set up trusts. A trust can set aside assets that will either be distributed after your death or managed until a date you specify.

You may also choose to establish guardianships for your minor children. By naming who you wish to be the legal guardians of your children, you eliminate the potential for a lot of confusion and arguments in the future. While a judge may override your choice of guardian if the person is no longer able to handle the responsibility, they usually will comply with your wishes.

We can also help you set up conservatorships for adults who are developmentally disabled or otherwise unable to make decisions and care for themselves.

How We Can Assist You

You have many options for probate planning. We can draft trusts and other documents for you as well as litigate them if they are contested. To get started, please call our Ann Arbor office at 734-418-0958.