Frequently Asked Questions
📝 Estate Planning FAQs
Estate planning is the legal process of arranging how your assets will be managed and distributed during your lifetime and after death. It often includes preparing wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and healthcare directives.
At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, our goal is to help you preserve your legacy while protecting your loved ones. Learn more on our Estate Planning page.
The purpose of estate planning is to:
Ensure your wishes are honored
Avoid family disputes
Reduce taxes and court involvement
Designate guardians for minor children
Provide peace of mind
Proper planning avoids costly and time-consuming court processes like probate, and gives your loved ones clear guidance.
No. A will is just one part of an estate plan. A comprehensive estate plan may also include:
Revocable or irrevocable trusts
Durable powers of attorney
Living wills and healthcare proxies
Visit our Estate Planning page to explore more.
⚖️ Probate FAQs
Probate administration is the legal process of managing and settling a deceased person’s estate. This includes validating the will, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, we assist families throughout Southeast Michigan with every step of the probate process.
Not all estates require probate. Small estates or assets held in a trust may avoid probate. However, if the deceased owned property solely in their name, probate administration is often required to transfer ownership legally. Contact us to find out if probate applies to your situation.
The timeline varies depending on the complexity of the estate and whether the process is contested. Most probate administrations in Michigan take between 6 to 12 months. Our legal team works efficiently to ensure timely resolution for our clients.
If no will exists, the estate goes through intestate probate administration. This means Michigan’s intestacy laws will determine how the estate is distributed. We can help you navigate this process and ensure your loved one’s estate is handled properly.
Yes, some people choose estate planning tools like revocable living trusts, joint ownership, or beneficiary designations to avoid probate. Learn more on our Estate Planning page or schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
Costs can vary based on the size and complexity of the estate. Fees may include court filing fees, attorney’s fees, and administrative costs. At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, we offer transparent pricing and can provide a cost estimate during your initial consultation.
👨👩⚖️ Guardianship & Conservatorship FAQs
Guardianship is a legal arrangement where the court appoints someone to make personal and medical decisions on behalf of a minor or incapacitated adult.
We assist with guardianship petitions for minors and adults across Southeast Michigan.
A conservatorship gives a court-appointed individual the authority to manage someone's financial affairs when they are unable to do so themselves due to age, illness, or disability.
Our firm handles conservatorship filings for elderly or incapacitated individuals with attention and care.
When disagreements arise—such as who should be appointed—the court may require a hearing. We offer strong legal representation in contested guardianship and conservatorship proceedings, advocating for what’s best for the individual in question.
While not legally required, having an attorney ensures your case is handled correctly. The process involves strict rules, required documentation, and sometimes court appearances.
At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, we guide clients step-by-step to make the process as smooth as possible.
Yes, some people choose estate planning tools like revocable living trusts, joint ownership, or beneficiary designations to avoid probate. Learn more on our Estate Planning page or schedule a free consultation to discuss your options.
Costs can vary based on the size and complexity of the estate. Fees may include court filing fees, attorney’s fees, and administrative costs. At The Braxton Law Firm, PC, we offer transparent pricing and can provide a cost estimate during your initial consultation.
