When you don’t plan ahead by having a comprehensive estate plan, state law governs:
- The Court appoints a guardian for you if you are incapacitated.
- Doctors and the Court make medical decisions for you if you are incapacitated.
- The Court appoints your personal representative upon your death.
- The Court appoints guardians for your minor children.
- Michigan law directs distribution of your estate to your “heirs at law”:
- Spouse.
- Children.
- Grandchildren.
- Other family members.
- If you have no spouse, your children receive your estate.
- If you have no spouse or children, your parents receive your estate.
- If you have no spouse, children or parents, your siblings, nieces and nephews receive your estate.
- If you have no spouse, children, parents, siblings, nieces or nephews (or descendants), your grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins receive your estate.
- If you have no spouse, children, parents, siblings, nieces, nephews, grandparents, aunts, uncles or cousins. . .
- The State of Michigan receives your estate.
Why let a judge determine who will benefit from your hard work? Make these important decisions for yourself.
Remember that an estate plan is not simply a “piece of paper.” It’s peace of mind. There is no better time than today to help secure your family’s financial future with a comprehensive estate plan.
For more information or to get started on this important life project, visit www.ArborEstatePlanning.com or contact me at Chris@ArborLegal.com or 734-827-9450. I’ll help you plan ahead.