Blog
Do I Really Need an Estate Plan If I’m Not Rich?
There’s a common misconception that "estate planning" is a term reserved for people with private jets, sprawling mansions, and Swiss bank accounts. Many of us hear the word "estate" and immediately think of The Great Gatsby. But here is the reality: If you have a bank...
Beyond the Basics: Understanding the Difference Between Wills and Trusts
Estate planning is often one of those "I’ll get to it eventually" tasks. But in 2026, with digital assets, complex family dynamics, and a fast-moving legal landscape, waiting is no longer a safe bet. When you sit down to protect your legacy, the first question usually...
Why Your Estate Plan Needs a Team (and How We Help You Build One)
When people think about estate planning, they often picture a quiet office, a stack of legal documents, and a signature. But in reality, a truly effective estate plan isn’t a solo act—it’s a team sport. As your estate planning attorney in New Baltimore and...
Annuities can be Risky
Annuities are often marketed as the "ultimate safety net"—a way to ensure you never outlive your money. While they can be a valuable tool for retirement income, they carry unique "fine print" risks that can complicate, or even derail, a thoughtful estate plan. If you...
Beyond the Policy: Why Buying an Annuity Isn’t an “Estate Plan”
We’ve all seen the seminars or received the mailers: a sleek presentation promising "guaranteed income for life" and a "hassle-free way to leave a legacy." Often, these conversations revolve around one specific financial product—the annuity. While annuities can be a...
Michigan Estate Planning Guide 2026
This guide provides an overview of the 2026 estate planning landscape in Michigan. Whether you are starting from scratch or updating an existing plan to account for recent tax shifts, here is what you need to know. The 2026 Shift: What’s New? The most significant...
Why “One-Size-Fits-All” Estate Planning is a Dangerous Myth
In the age of DIY internet downloads and "push-button" legal forms, it’s tempting to think that estate planning is just a matter of filling in the blanks. You find a template, type in a few names, and check it off your to-do list. But here is the cold, hard truth: An...
Don’t Deed it and Forget it: A Guide to Ladybird Deed Complications
Ladybird deeds (formally known as Enhanced Life Estate Deeds) are fantastic tools for avoiding probate, but they aren't a "set it and forget it" magic wand. They come with some specific legal and financial quirks that can trip people up if they aren't careful. Here is...
The Missing Piece in Your Estate Plan: Why You Need a Financial Advisor
When most people think of estate planning, they picture a mahogany desk, a stack of legal documents, and an attorney. While the legal "blueprint" is essential, a plan is only as strong as the assets that fuel it. That is why you need your financial advisor to be part...
Power of Attorney and Patient Advocate Designation — Two of Your Most Important Documents
Creating an estate plan is crucial for ensuring that your wishes are honored and your affairs are managed according to your preferences in case you become unable to make decisions yourself or pass away. Two of the most important documents in an estate plan are the...
