Probate Process In Michigan

If you have recently lost a loved one, probating an estate is probably the last thing on your mind. However, at some point, this is an issue that will have to be addressed, and it is usually on the decedents family members to handle these affairs somewhere down the road. If the decedent passed on with a small estate, you are probably wondering whether it makes sense to hire an attorney to help you out when the value of the estate is so low. I would always recommend hiring an attorney to make sure your legal issues are handled correctly so as to avoid additional hardship later on. But in the event that this is not an option, and the estate is small, here are some tips on what to do with a small estate.

Michigan Small Estate Proceedings

In Michigan, a small estate, in the year 2013 (the value of for a small estate changes from year to year), is an estate with a total value of $21,000 or less. To probate this estate, a Petition, Order for Assignment, death certificate and receipt for the funeral expenses must be filed with the Probate Court. Once the value of the estate is approved by the court, the surviving spouse is entitled to the remainder of the estate (once funeral expenses are paid off in full). If there is no surviving spouse, the decedents heirs (usually children or grandchildren) would take the remainder of the estate in equal shares. It is important to note that creditors must be paid by those who are entitled to the estate in an amount that is no greater the value of the estate within sixty-three days after a judges order. There is a filing fee of $25 to open a small estate, and an inventory fee must also be paid. It is often helpful to Google the Probate Court with jurisdiction in your situation. The courts website typically provides the documents needed to open a small estate, and may also provide a step-by-step procedural analysis.

Contact a Michigan Probate Attorney

Akiva Goldman & Associates provides free consultations on a wide variety of legal topics including probate issues. We are experienced probate attorneys in Metro Detroit, and we are proud to provide you with the information you need to complete your objectives. Contact us today at 586-268-2400.

We Can Help You With Your Michigan Probate Process

If you have recently lost a loved one, you may not know what needs to be done especially if the decedent died with a small estate. You may not think its worth hiring an attorney in these cases. I would always advise one to contact an attorney for help, but if that is not an option for you, and the estate is small enough, you consider doing it yourself. Contact Akiva Goldman & Associates today to find out what makes sense for you.