Trust & Estate Attorneys of Michigan
At Trust & Estate Attorneys of Michigan, we help families and individuals across Troy, MI and the surrounding areas create legally sound Wills and Trusts that protect assets, minimize future stress, and ensure peace of mind. Whether you’re just getting started or revisiting an old plan, our goal is to make the estate planning process simple, affordable, and tailored to your life.
“It is very important to keep your assets out of probate so that you will not lose assets to a Medicaid clawback, or a lien being filed by other creditors and hospitals.”
Between a Will and a Trust?
Last Will and Testament
A Will is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after you pass away. It allows you to:
-
Name beneficiaries for personal property and assets
-
Appoint a guardian for minor children
-
Choose a personal representative (executor) to carry out your wishes
While Wills are valid in Michigan, they typically must go through probate court, which can delay distributions and increase legal costs.
Revocable Living Trust
A Trust lets you manage your assets during your lifetime and pass them directly to your beneficiaries after death, without going through probate. Trusts offer:
-
Faster asset transfer and more privacy
-
Greater control over how and when assets are distributed
-
Potential protection from creditors and legal disputes
Our firm drafts custom Revocable Living Trusts for Michigan residents, designed to reflect your goals and comply with state law.
Do I Need a Will or a Trust in Michigan?
Every situation is different. You may benefit from having both. Our estate planning attorney in Troy, MI, will walk you through your options and help you determine:
-
Whether a Will alone is sufficient for your estate
-
Whether a Revocable Trust offers better protection or flexibility
-
How to avoid common estate planning pitfalls specific to Michigan lawWe work with clients throughout Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties, including Troy, Rochester Hills, Bloomfield Hills, Royal Oak, and surrounding communities
Wills & Trusts in Michigan
Can I write my own Will in Michigan?
Yes, but we don’t recommend it. DIY Wills often lack the legal strength to withstand probate challenges or may not comply with Michigan-specific legal requirements. A professionally drafted Will ensures clarity, enforceability, and peace of mind.
Does a Trust avoid probate in Michigan?
Yes. A Revocable Living Trust allows your assets to pass directly to beneficiaries, bypassing the probate court process—saving your loved ones time, money, and hassle.
What happens if I die without a Will in Michigan?
If you pass away without a valid Will, your estate will be distributed based on Michigan intestate succession laws, which may not reflect your wishes. This can lead to disputes, delays, and court involvement.
Wills and Trusts Oakland County
Why Choose Trust & Estate Attorneys of Michigan?
-
Experienced Estate Planning Attorney:
Nearly a decade of drafting Wills and Trusts for Michigan families.
-
Local Expertise:
Deep knowledge of Michigan estate planning laws and probate avoidance strategies.
-
Flat Fees & Transparent Pricing:
Nearly a decade of drafting Wills and Trusts for Michigan families.
-
Fast, Friendly Process:
We simplify estate planning with modern tools and personalized service.
-
Serving Southeast Michigan:
Proudly working with clients across Troy, Birmingham, Rochester, and beyond.
We Serve Clients
Throughout Southeast Michigan
- Troy, MI
- Birmingham, MI
- Bloomfield Hills, MI
- Rochester Hills, MI
- Royal Oak, MI
- Sterling Heights, MI
- Clinton Township, MI
- Novi, MI
- Farmington Hills, MI
- And surrounding areas