Estate planning is the process of organizing your affairs so your wishes are carried out — for your assets, your healthcare, and your loved ones — during your lifetime and after.

Yes. If you have people you love, things you've worked for, or opinions about your own healthcare, you need a plan. Accidents and illness don't wait.

Michigan's intestacy laws decide who gets your assets — and it may not match your wishes. The court also decides who raises your minor children.

Absolutely not. Estate planning is for anyone who has people they love or opinions about their own care. It's about protection, not wealth.

A foundational estate plan typically includes a Last Will & Testament, a Durable Power of Attorney for financial decisions, a Healthcare Power of Attorney, and an Advance Healthcare Directive. Many clients also benefit from adding a Revocable Living Trust to keep assets out of probate.

Review your plan every 3–5 years, and immediately after major life events: marriage, divorce, the birth or adoption of a child, the death of a beneficiary or named agent, a significant change in assets, or a move to a new state.

Technically yes — but a poorly drafted document can cause more problems than no document at all. Online tools can't ask the right follow-up questions, account for Michigan-specific requirements, or anticipate your family's unique circumstances. An attorney ensures your plan is valid, complete, and actually does what you intend.