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We can help you with probate laws

Do you have a loved one whose assets must be probated?
Are you named as a personal representative in a will?
Do you live in an ather state and need assistance with Michigan probate?
Do you have a loved one for whom a guardian must be appointed?
Are you confused by the Michigan probate laws?

If so, let us assist you in choosing which type of probate will fit your circumstances. We will guide you through the entire process, from the opening to the closing of the estate. There are state and local procedures that must be adhered to in any of these proceedings, and with our years of experience, we will expedite this process and make it less burdensome for you and your family.

Michigan Probate
Probate is the process by which a deceased person's assets are distributed to his or her heirs and/or beneficiaries (named in a will), at times under the supervision of the probate court. The probate court also has jurisdiction to appoint guardians over a person and conservators over a person's assets.

Since the enactment of Michigan's Estates and Protected Individuals Code ("EPIC") in April, 2000, there are now three types of probate proceedings by which to distribute a deceased individual's estate: informal, formal and supervised.

Informal Probate - Informal probate is conducted by the probate register (a probate court official) and without reporting to the court; these types of proceedings can be conducted without prior notice to interested persons, although interested persons will be notified of the proceedings after commencement.

Formal Probate - Formal probate is partially supervised by the court. Formal proceedings may be used if there is a possibility of a will contest, or if there is a need for the court to determine such issues as whether there was a valid will, who the decedent's heirs are, etc.

Supervised Probate - Supervised probate, as its name indicates, is fully supervised by the court. Supervised proceedings are begun in the same way as formal proceedings, but the court oversees all aspects of probate until the issuance of an order to close the estate.

Most estates can be probated using informal proceedings, and any proceedings can be used whether there is a will or not.

The Personal Representative (commonly known as the "Executor") of an estate, whether named in a will or by statute, has many duties and powers, all of which are spelled out in the EPIC statute. The Personal Representative has the responsibility of completely administering the estate, and thus, he or she must be aware of all of the powers granted to him or her and all of the duties required of him or her.

Give us a call at Klute Miller Johnson, PLC. Let Klute Miller Johnson, PLC help you reach your business goals. We will work as your legal partner to help you grow and prosper. Call, write, fax or e-mail Klute Miller Johnson, PLC with your business questions. We would appreciate the opportunity to sit down and discuss how we can serve you.

Creighton F. Klute - Mark A. Miller - John C. Johnson

...enthusiastically committed to helping you achieve your personal and business goals through timely, responsive legal service... characterized by excellence.

Court Place - Suite 101
728 Pleasant Street
St. Joseph, Michigan 49085
(near your downtown banking)

Contact Us Now: 269.983.1000

Berrien County, Michigan Lawyers - Legal Advice for Michigan Statewide
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