When handling high-value assets in an estate plan, proper valuation and clear transfer methods are critical. Effective strategies can ensure that the estate passes these assets on according to your wishes while avoiding tax burdens and legal issues. Valuing art...
Brown Borkowski & Morrow
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Estate Planning
Challenging the validity of a will in probate court
Challenging or defending the validity of a will in Michigan probate court involves several steps. Whether you are questioning the will’s authenticity or defending its validity, understanding the process is helpful. Grounds for challenging a will To challenge a will,...
Should you include your pets in your estate plan?
For individuals who live alone, pets are often considered an integral member of the family. As your furry companions depend on you for all their needs, it is critical to ensure their continued care, regardless of unforeseen circumstances. Including your pets in your...
Managing digital assets in your Michigan estate plan
Living digitally means much of people’s lives exist online. Financial accounts, social media profiles, and more are part of their digital footprint. Yet, many overlook integrating these assets into their Michigan estate plans. It is important to understand why it's...
What can someone do to shorten probate?
When a loved one passes away, navigating the legal process of probate can feel like too much to handle. Probate is the court-supervised process of distributing a dead person's assets to their heirs. However, it often involves lengthy delays and expenses. Fortunately,...
Estate planning is needed to protect heirlooms
Every day, Michiganders enter the Michigan probate process. The outcome depends upon whether an estate plan was put in place. How probate can cause problems with heirlooms Probate is a legal process that an estate enters after a person's death. When there is no will...
Estate planning over the holidays
Estate planning involves essential duties that anyone interested in transferring assets to beneficiaries may wish to pursue. Contrary to what some may assume, even those persons of modest means could benefit from drawing up estate plans. Also, there aren't necessarily...
3 ways estate planning can minimize probate hassles
Planning for the future is an act of love and consideration for loved ones. Regarding estate planning, taking steps to minimize probate hassles can provide peace of mind for everyone involved. 1. Clear and specific beneficiary designations One effective way to...
How to represent your parent’s estate
It's not uncommon for adult children to serve as a parent's executor. However, if you are asked to oversee your mother or father's Michigan estate, it's important that you understand what your duties are. It's also important to understand that you have the right to...
Standing in Michigan will contests
When someone dies and leaves a will that outlines how they want their assets to be distributed and the beneficiaries that should receive them, Michigan courts will generally accept the document as representing the decedent's wishes. In most cases, the probate court...