Estate Planning Attorney in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan

Too many people pass away without properly writing a will to protect their family and loved ones' future after they are gone. If you die without a will, the state of Michigan will decide how your estate's assets will be divided, and your family won't have a say in what happens. For this reason, having a will prepared by a competent and knowledgeable attorney is one of the best ways that you can provide for your family and protect your loved ones.

At Upper Michigan Law, we provide the communities of Escanaba and the surrounding areas with:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Healthcare Directives
• Powers of Attorney
• Probate Administration
• Litigation

Why Choose Upper Michigan Law?

Our team of attorneys in Escanaba has over 40 years of experience serving the community with our professional yet personable services. Attorney Katie Clark specializes in estate planning and probate and can help you formulate the will or trust you need. Katie Clark is Upper Michigan Law's premier estate planning specialist.

As an attorney with 10 years of experience in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area as a criminal defense attorney, Katie is proud to be representing people here in her hometown of Escanaba with the best representation around. When you hire Attorney Clark, you will receive the support and comprehensive teamwork from our entire staff of lawyers. We each bring a unique approach to our work and our legacy of excellent and personalized attention to each of our clients will give you the confidence and peace of mind you need.

What Does an Estate Attorney Do?

An estate attorney, often referred to as an estate planning lawyer, is a legal professional who specializes in assisting individuals and families in managing their assets and planning for the distribution of their wealth after their passing. This area of law encompasses a wide range of services and responsibilities, all geared towards helping clients protect their assets, minimize tax liabilities, and ensure their wishes are carried out effectively.

Estate Planning and Asset Protection: One of the primary roles of an estate attorney is to aid clients in creating comprehensive estate plans. This involves drafting wills, trusts, and other legal documents that outline how a person's assets should be distributed upon their death. Estate attorneys work closely with their clients to understand their unique financial situation and personal goals, allowing them to tailor estate plans to meet specific needs. By doing so, they help individuals safeguard their wealth and ensure that their loved ones are provided for.

Probate and Estate Administration: When someone passes away, their estate often goes through a legal process known as probate. Estate attorneys play a crucial role in guiding their clients' estates through this process. They help to ensure that the deceased person's assets are distributed according to their wishes and in compliance with applicable laws. Additionally, estate attorneys assist with the management and settlement of the decedent's debts and liabilities, providing valuable support during a challenging time.

Contingency Planning: Beyond the distribution of assets, estate attorneys also help clients plan for unforeseen circumstances. This can involve the creation of powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and guardianship provisions for minor children. These documents ensure that individuals are protected and their interests are represented if they become incapacitated or unable to make decisions on their own.

Resolving Disputes: In some cases, disputes may arise concerning the distribution of assets or the validity of a will or trust. Estate attorneys are skilled in resolving these disputes through negotiation, mediation, or litigation if necessary. Their legal expertise is invaluable in ensuring that the deceased's wishes are honored while minimizing conflicts among heirs.

Protect Your Family's Future With Proper Estate Planning

Call Attorney Katie Clark today to set up a consultation and to discuss the details of your case. Your estate planning is important to us, and we are available to answer any questions and address any concerns you might have. We look forward to meeting you soon!