Monthly Archives: November 2013

Managing Deceased Estates in Oak Park, Michigan

Oak Park residents, do you know how a person is picked to manage the estate of someone who passes on? Most of the time this is decided through someone’s will. The person nominated by the maker of the will to carry out the directions of that will is known as an executor.

Those tinkering with their will and estate planning in Michigan will obviously want to select someone they trust with their assets and finances. On the flip side, those selected to become the executor of the will inherit a number of responsibilities, including:

  • Collecting property
  • Finding the beneficiaries
  • Helping to arrange the funeral
  • Paying off debts and outstanding bills
  • Securing Assets
  • Settling feuds between other family members or beneficiaries in the will

But what if there is no will left behind? Well, if a probate court proceeding is deemed necessary, the spouse or registered domestic partner of the deceased will almost always have first priority under law, depending on the state. If there is no spouse, it would be the child of the deceased. If there happens to be more than one child, they would all stand in equal position. If there is no agreement made by the interested partners, a judge will appoint a person to manage the deceased’s estate.

Handling tasks and sorting through the details can be overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to get consultation from an experienced estate planning attorney in Oak Park, Michigan to help walk you through the intestate succession laws, which sort out the inheritance of property if no will exists.

To learn more about managing the estate of the deceased Oak Park properly and professionally, contact Michael Colton, an estate planning specialists, at Colton Probate Law. A trusted estate planning lawyer in Oak Park Michigan for over 30 years, Michael Colton can help you through any issues you’re having as executor of a will, or constructing a will. Call today for more information or to receive a free consultation. 248-324-0800.