Grand Traverse County Michigan Divorce and Estate Planning Blog
Could it be time to modify your estate plan?
Creating an estate plan isn’t something most people look forward to, but it’s critical if you want to protect you, your loved ones and your assets both now and in the future. It can be frustrating to learn that your estate plan no longer suits all your needs, but it’s...
What happens to your retirement account or pension in a divorce?
Married couples tend to plan for their future together. Your retirement budget and savings likely reflect an intention to live with your spouse and share your expenses and savings during your golden years. However, just because you've planned something doesn't mean...
What to do if you want to file for divorce
You’ve tried your best to make your marriage work, but you’ve come to the conclusion that it’s time to file for divorce. It’s a bitter pill to swallow, but staying in a bad marriage won’t do you any good. Here are some steps to take if you decide that you want to file...
Prevent heirs from contesting the will
Individuals with high-value estates understand the importance of comprehensive estate planning. The smallest mistake could cost a family thousands of dollars in taxes or months stuck in probate court. However, even the best estate plan cannot account for the actions...
Mediation provides confidential divorce negotiations
A conflict-heavy divorce takes a huge toll on a family. Arguments and hostility can create untenable home environments that can lead to years of resentment between parents and their children. To combat this hostility, many couples use mediation to draft their divorce...
Dividing complicated assets in a Michigan divorce
Dividing property can be a painful, confusing part of divorce. Not only can it be challenging to understand what gets divided and how, but it can also make people feel insecure about their future financial stability. To better prepare for this part of a divorce,...
Dealing with a questionable estate executor
The many emotions Michigan family members experience after a loved one dies can sometimes create tense situations when it comes to making the important decisions in the days and weeks that follow. Those tensions may spill into the probate process, and not everyone may...
Character flaws may predict divorce
Michigan couples who are interested in each other may spend time getting to know each other. If they decide they are compatible, they may get married, promising to spend the rest of their lives together. When the marriage doesn’t work out and the couple decides to...
Careful estate planning is vital for blended families.
Marriage is often more than two people coming together. Marriage often involves building a new family, especially when one or both spouses have been married before. In these blended families, though, creating a comprehensive estate plan is especially important. What...
Real estate development must comply with land use ordinances
Residential real estate developers have the exciting benefit of creating homes and neighborhoods for individuals and families. Homeownership is a desire of many in Michigan. It can provide security, freedom and a feeling of accomplishment. In addition to the advantage...
