We Offer Streamlined Probate And Estate Administration Services
At Cuzydlo Law Group, PLLC, we understand that managing a loved one’s estate can be overwhelming. Our experienced probate and estate administration lawyer, Chuck Cuzydlo, is here to help. We will guide you through every step of the probate process in Lansing and Okemos, handling estate assets, probate procedures and trust administration.
We aim to distribute assets according to your loved one’s wishes while minimizing legal complications. Let us shoulder the legal burden so you can focus on what matters most during this difficult time.
Overview Of The Probate Process
Probate can be complex because it may involve several parties. The process typically includes:
- Executors or administrators validating wills
- Appraisers valuing probate assets
- Executors settling debts with creditors and paying taxes
- Executors distributing probate proceeds to beneficiaries according to the will or state law if no will exists
Not all assets go through probate. Under Michigan’s probate code, the following are exempt assets:
- Jointly owned property with survivorship rights
- Assets with designated beneficiaries
- Property in living trusts
- Small estates (value threshold varies by state)
- Certain personal property
- Some retirement accounts and life insurance policies
To minimize probate’s impact, we can help you consider strategies like creating trusts, using joint ownership or designating beneficiaries where possible. We can also advise on other estate planning tools and, if necessary, represent you in probate litigation to resolve disputes over wills, trusts or asset distribution.
Manage The Costs Of The Probate And Estate Administration Process With Our Firm
Probate costs vary with estate complexity. While there is no fixed percentage, expenses typically include court fees, attorney fees, executor fees and administrative costs. These can add up, especially for larger or more complex estates. We can help you understand and manage these costs and develop an effective estate plan.
Call us at 517-940-6434 or email us today to schedule a consultation for your probate or estate administration needs.