What should I do when a loved one passes away?

Nothing needs to be done right away; we normally advise clients to wait until after the funeral and burial or cremation. Initial steps include:

  • Securing assets so they are not stolen or damaged
  • Ensuring insurance coverage remains in place on major assets such as homes and vehicles
  • Locating any estate plan documents, preferably the original ink version
  • Gathering contact information about family members and beneficiaries

Before representation begins, we complete an internal conflict check to ensure ethical compliance. We search our client records to determine whether the firm has a current or past client with an interest in the estate that may pose a conflict of interest.

How much does probate cost?

Total costs depend on complexity and level of involvement required by the attorney and other law firm staff.

Probate is billed hourly at the attorney’s regular hourly rate, and if a paralegal is assisting, they bill at their regular hourly rate.

How long does probate take?

Some estates are resolved quickly, while others take significantly longer. The length varies depending on:

  • Asset value
  • Complexity of the estate
  • Whether disputes arise

When is probate required?

Probate is typically necessary when assets are held solely in the deceased person’s name without a surviving co-owner or surviving designated beneficiaries.

What is probate?

Probate is the legal process of transferring a deceased person’s assets to living persons, either according to their estate plan documents or as directed by Michigan law. The process is overseen by personnel in the county probate court, and may or may not involve court hearings before a probate judge.