Common Estate Planning Documents

   Your revocable living trust allows you to transfer your assets into a trust during your lifetime, giving you the flexibility to change or revoke it at any time. After your death, your assets can be distributed to your beneficiaries right away or over time, avoiding probate for a private and efficient transfer. 

 Your last will and testament is a legal document that outlines how your assets will be distributed after your death, names guardians for your minor children, and appoints a personal representative to carry out your wishes. If you use a will, it must go through probate. 

 Your enhanced life estate deed, also known as a Ladybird deed, allows you to keep full control of your property during your lifetime while naming beneficiaries to receive it after your death. It helps you avoid probate and gives you flexibility to change or revoke the deed at any time. 

 Your patient advocate designation with an advance directive allows you to choose someone to make healthcare decisions for you if you become unable to do so, while clearly outlining your medical treatment preferences. It also helps you avoid the need for probate guardianship.  

  Your durable financial power of attorney lets someone you trust manage your finances if you’re incapacitated, avoiding probate conservatorship. Under Michigan’s new law effective July 1, 2024, updating your document ensures it’s easily recognized and your wishes are carried out without delay. 

  Your funeral representative designation allows you to appoint someone to make your funeral and burial arrangements after your passing. This document provides your family with clarity and peace of mind during a difficult time.   

 Your certificate of trust serves as proof of your trustee’s authority to manage your trust assets. Banks, title companies, and other institutions may require this document before allowing access to your trust accounts or property. 

 Your delegation of parental power allows you to temporarily give another adult authority to make important decisions for your child, such as medical care and school matters. It ensures your child is cared for by someone you trust while you’re away, without legal complications.