Probate Services
Probate Services
Michigan Probate Courts handle cases in three major areas: decedent’s estates and the supervision of trusts, guardianships and conservatorships for minors and incapacitated persons as well as cases involving people with mental illness or developmental disabilities.
The Law Offices of Kristen R. Gross handles most matters in the Probate Court from the administration of decedent’s estates, to conservatorships and guardianships for incapacitated persons to representation of beneficiaries or trustees before the court. The firm has also represented family members seeking to be appointed as guardian for a family member with a developmental or intellectual disability.
Decedent’s Estates
Probate for a decedent’s estate is the legal process by which a person’s will is validated by the Probate Court. The provisions of the will dictate how the individual’s debts are paid and assets are distributed upon death. If a person passes away without a will, then assets are distributed in accordance with Michigan law. Estate administration includes the probate process as well as non-probate transfers of the deceased’s assets, such as life insurance, annuities, qualified plans, and trust assets and compliance with applicable estate tax requirements.
There are many tasks after a person’s passing. Sometimes this involves a process called probate. The person in charge of a probate estate after death is called the personal representative. We will assist the personal representative for the estate in getting appointed. After appointment, we will help him or her in the gathering, valuation, accounting, and distribution of the decedent’s assets.
Guardianships and Conservatorships
Do you have a loved one who has become unable to handle his or her health care or financial matters? This may involve filing a guardianship or conservatorship petition with the probate court. We will discuss your options and make recommendations for the most appropriate and cost-effective manner to go forward in assisting your loved one.