Death is not something that most Michigan residents prefer to discuss openly. Of course, though, death is inevitable for everyone. When something is guaranteed to happen, it typically makes sense to prepare for it. A will is one of the best ways to ensure an estate owner’s property and assets are distributed appropriately after death.
What is a will and who needs one?
Basically, a will is a legal document that details how an individual wants his or her assets to be disbursed after they die. A will is fluid, meaning it can be changed or amended until the person dies. A will can help save loved ones from a lengthy ordeal with state probate courts. Creating a will is essential for nearly everyone. Fortunately, creating a will is not as complicated as many people think.
What if a person dies without a will?
If a person dies without a will, the state will essentially decide who gets what through the process of probate. Even if a person has verbally expressed to whom they wish to leave their property and assets, a formally prepared will is the best way to ensure things go where intended after death. If a person dies without a will, his or her assets are often awarded to immediate family members first, such as a spouse, children and parents. This is accomplished through laws of intestacy, which vary from state to state.
Unfortunately, many people delay creating a will or an estate plan until it’s too late. Michigan residents who have questions or want to get started setting up an appropriate plan could benefit by contacting a legal representative. An experienced and knowledgeable attorney can help families understand laws and create the perfect plan to secure their estate.
