Estate Administration Overview
Overview of methods to distribute a deceased person's assets.
There are various methods to distribute a deceased person's assets...
There are four methods to distribute a deceased person's assets. Each method depends on the type and amount of assets owned by a deceased person, and their estate planning documents. We will help you to select the right method for your situation.
Probate is required when a deceased person owns assets are titled
solely in his or her name at the time of death.
Trust Administration
Trust administration is required when a deceased person's assets are owned by his or her trust upon death. In that case, the Michigan Trust Code prescribes certain steps that must be taken by a trustee to administer the trust assets.
An asset is "Registered in Beneficiary Form" when it includes a pre-designated beneficiary who may acquire the asset upon the death of the owner without probate or trust administration.
Small Estates
Small estate procedures may be used in limited circumstances prescribed by law. Click the link to learn how and when these procedures may be used to distribute property owned by a deceased person.
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How to Start Probate and Estate Administration
You may follow these steps to start administration of a deceased person's estate. There is no cost to meet with an attorney to discuss our services.
Step 1: Review Procedures and Costs
Learn about procedures and costs to transfer a deceased person's assets.
Step 2: Schedule a Consultation
Use our online calendar to schedule a consultation with an attorney.
Step 3: Gather
Information
Complete an Estate Administration Worksheet to prepare for your consultation.