Detroit Probate Law Professionals
Handling legal affairs at the end of a family member's life can become emotionally trying and frustrating. Whether your loved one left a valid will or simply expected everything to go to a surviving spouse or child, probate issues are often complex. Even when an estate isn't very large, assets may have to go through the Michigan probate courts to determine their final disposition. Having an experienced probate professional handle the final affairs can help you concentrate on your family, rather than on court proceedings.
Efficient and Cost-Effective • Non-Residents Welcome
Galloway and Collens, PLLC, has served as legal counsel for hundreds of families in Michigan and throughout the United States. When the death of a loved one arrives, our lawyers offer compassionate assistance in probating or administering the estate. Whether the estate involves a will, a trust, a handwritten document or no written document at all, we provide counsel so that you can handle everything relating to final estate administration, including:
- Gathering all records
- Identifying heirs
- Probating the estate in court
- Inventory of assets
- Notifying and paying creditors
- Handling life insurance issues
- Distributing bequests to heirs and beneficiaries
- Administering trusts
- Handling all other final affairs of the estate
Ancillary Administration: If the deceased lived in another state but owned property in Michigan, our attorneys can assist executors and administrators from other states with the administration of a Michigan estate. With our extensive real estate law experience, we can assist with the estate sale of real estate in Michigan. For smaller estates without property, we can assist your family members in getting assets transitioned - sometimes without the need for opening a full-blown probate estate proceeding.
Will a Judge Decide How to Distribute Your Family Estate?
There are several ways to probate a final estate in Michigan. A supervised probate requires hearings before a probate judge to determine the final disposition and distribution of assets. An unsupervised estate requires more limited court oversight without the need for as many hearings. A formal hearing may be necessary to finalize matters that may be in dispute. Lastly, an informal unsupervised probate estate is handled completely through court filings and paperwork without the need to go to a formal hearing before a probate judge. An experienced probate lawyer will answer your questions about what type of probate procedure your family's estate will require.
We've been handling probate matters for many years and know how to navigate the system to protect your family's interests. In matters of disputed trusts and wills, you will have experienced probate litigation professionals on your side. We handle everything relating to probating an estate, including:
- Probate administration
- Litigation in contested estates, wills, and trusts
- Litigation over powers of attorney
- Disputed guardianship and conservatorship
- Final tax issues
Contact our offices in Huntington Woods, Michigan, to arrange a consultation with attorney Howard H. Collens today.
