When Should You Contact a Probate or Estate Planning Attorney?
Life doesn’t come with a playbook, but there are times when having professional guidance can bring clarity, security, and peace of mind. Whether you're thinking about the future or responding to a recent loss, knowing when to reach out to a probate or estate planning attorney can help you make confident, well-informed decisions for yourself and your family.
📌 Key Moments to Consider Legal Guidance
Below are common life situations when it’s wise to contact a probate or estate planning attorney in Michigan:
1. You’re Creating or Updating a Will
If you’re planning to write your first will—or it's been a few years since you last updated one—it’s a good time to speak with an estate planning attorney. They can ensure your documents are legally valid under Michigan law, clearly express your wishes, and coordinate with other planning tools like trusts or powers of attorney.
2. A Loved One Has Passed Away
After the death of a family member, you may be facing unfamiliar legal tasks: settling debts, transferring property, or navigating Michigan’s probate process. An attorney can help you understand your role—whether as executor, trustee, or heir—and guide you step by step, ensuring legal requirements are met and stress is minimized.
3. You're Planning for Long-Term Care or Incapacity
If you’re thinking about the “what ifs” of aging—long-term care, dementia, or future medical decisions—an attorney can help set up documents like durable powers of attorney, health care directives, or Medicaid planning strategies that protect your wishes and your estate.
4. There’s a Blended or Complex Family Situation
If you’re remarried, have children from previous relationships, or share assets with extended family, estate planning can become more nuanced. An attorney helps ensure your plan reflects your intentions and minimizes potential conflict or confusion down the line.
5. You Own a Business or Real Estate
Owning a family business or multiple properties adds extra layers to your estate plan. A knowledgeable attorney can help with succession planning, minimizing taxes, and setting up trusts or LLCs that protect these valuable assets.
6. You’re Facing Probate and Don’t Know Where to Start
Michigan probate can feel daunting. If you’ve been named in someone’s will or are unsure what steps to take after a death, a probate attorney can help you understand deadlines, filings, and how to distribute assets legally and fairly.
🙋 Still Not Sure?
It’s perfectly normal to wonder whether your situation really warrants legal help. Here’s a simple rule of thumb:
If you’re dealing with assets, decisions, or responsibilities that affect others—especially after a death or in planning for your own—legal guidance can protect your interests and reduce stress.
An initial consultation is often free or low-cost, and even a brief conversation can provide direction or peace of mind.
🏠 We’re Here When You’re Ready
At JM Thomas Law, we believe estate planning and probate should bring clarity—not confusion. Whether you're planning ahead or responding to a loved one’s passing, we're here to listen and guide you with compassion and experience. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.