Frequently Asked Questions

Estate planning is the process of creating legal documents and strategies that help protect your wishes, your loved ones, your assets, and your future. A comprehensive estate plan may include:

• wills

• trusts

• powers of attorney

• healthcare directives

• guardianship planning

• beneficiary coordination

• asset protection strategies

Estate planning helps provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind for both you and your family.

Yes. Estate planning is not only for retirement or later stages of life.

Unexpected illness, accidents, or life changes can happen at any age. Having foundational documents in place helps ensure:

• your wishes are honored,

• trusted individuals can act on your behalf,

• loved ones avoid unnecessary legal complications,

• and your family has guidance during difficult moments.

If you pass away without a valid will, Michigan law determines how your assets are distributed through the intestate succession process.

This may result in:

• unintended beneficiaries,

• court involvement,

• family disputes,

• probate delays,

• and outcomes that do not reflect your wishes.

Creating an estate plan allows you—not the court—to make those decisions.

A will outlines your wishes for asset distribution after death and may still require probate court involvement.

A trust is a legal arrangement that can:

• help avoid probate,

• provide privacy,

• support long-term asset management,

• protect beneficiaries,

• and create more control over how assets are distributed.

The right strategy depends on your goals, assets, family structure, and long-term planning needs.

Not everyone needs a trust, but many individuals and families benefit from one.

Trusts may be especially helpful for:

• blended families,

• business owners,

• parents of minor children,

• individuals seeking probate avoidance,

• clients with privacy concerns,

• asset protection planning,

• and legacy-focused planning.

Jessica can help determine whether a trust aligns with your specific goals.

Probate is the court-supervised legal process used to administer a person’s estate after death.

Probate may involve:

• validating a will,

• paying debts,

• transferring assets,

• and resolving disputes.

Some assets pass outside probate depending on how they are titled or designated.

Certain planning strategies may help minimize or avoid probate, including:

• trusts,

• beneficiary designations,

• joint ownership arrangements,

• and proper asset titling.

Effective estate planning often helps simplify administration for loved ones.

It is recommended to review your estate plan every 3–5 years or after major life events such as:

• marriage,

• divorce,

• birth of children,

• death of a loved one,

• business changes,

• significant financial changes,

• or relocation to another state.