Probate Estate Administration
Helping You Navigate Probate Court With Confidence
When someone passes away without a Trust (just a Will or no planning at all), their estate likely needs to be settled through Probate Court. This process may be required if:
- The deceased owned real estate, financial accounts, or other assets in his or her name alone
- There is no trust or beneficiary designation in place
- There are debts or taxes that need to be addressed
- The estate is contested by heirs, beneficiaries, or creditors
Kris Johnson provides experienced, compassionate support to help you:
- Navigate Michigan Probate Court according to its requirements and deadlines
- Open the Estate in the correct county’s Probate Court
- Obtain Letters of Authority
- Handle required filings, notices, and deadlines
- Communicate with heirs and beneficiaries
- Close the Estate with confidence and legal compliance
We guide you from start to finish, keeping you informed every step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions About Probate Estate Administration
What is probate estate administration?
Probate estate administration is the legal process of settling a person’s estate after they pass away. It typically involves validating the will (if one exists), appointing a personal representative, paying debts and taxes, and distributing assets. At Journey Law, Kris Johnson guides you through each step so you’re never navigating it alone.
When is probate required in Michigan?
Probate is generally required when a person dies owning assets that don’t have a named beneficiary or joint owner. This may include real estate, bank accounts, or personal property. If your loved one passed without a trust, you’ll likely need to go through probate court in Michigan to access and distribute those assets.
How long does probate estate administration take in Michigan?
The probate process can take anywhere from several months to over a year, depending on the complexity of the estate, whether there’s a will, and if any disputes arise. Working with a Michigan probate lawyer like Kris Johnson helps streamline the process and prevent costly delays.
What does a probate attorney do?
A probate attorney like Kris Johnson assists with everything from filing court paperwork to communicating with creditors, collecting assets, and advising personal representatives. At Journey Law, we help you stay organized, meet deadlines, and avoid common probate pitfalls.
Can probate be avoided?
Yes, certain strategies like creating a Trust, naming beneficiaries on accounts, or using joint ownership can help avoid probate. If you’re planning ahead, Journey Law can help you create an estate plan that minimizes or bypasses the probate process entirely.
Do I need a lawyer to handle probate?
While Michigan doesn’t require an attorney, probate can be legally complex and emotionally overwhelming—especially after a loss. Having a probate lawyer like Kris Johnson ensures every step is handled properly and gives you peace of mind during a difficult time.
Need Probate Estate Assistance?
You don’t have to figure it all out alone. Journey Law is here to help you settle your loved one’s affairs with care and clarity.