

Estate Planning for Personal Possessions
I am frequently asked about how to handle all the personal possessions a loved one has accumulated over the years. It is not uncommon to hear that a loved one "kept everything" dating back decades and now the family is at a loss of how to even begin to deal with all the stuff. Most people unfortunately spend years accumulating personal property - some of which can be quite valuable - with little thought given to what will happen to it after they die. As expected, addressing t


Planning With A Terminal Illness
A few years ago, The National Elder Law Foundation newsletter discussed a handout the author provides to clients who have a terminal illness


Protecting Your On-Line Accounts
It wasn't that long ago that the on-line world was something used primarily by the younger generation. Now it


Protecting a Disabled Child or Adult
A special needs trust is generally used for disabled children or adults. The trust is designed to benefit the child or adult in a way that does not cause them to be disqualified from receiving need-based government benefits such as Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Examples of typical uses for special needs trust are:
A disabled child or adult has a severe physical or mental disability and qualifies for Medicaid or SSI benefits that would be lost if the c


Medicaid Figures for 2026
Every January, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) releases updated figures for Medicaid qualification. For 2025,


'Tis The Season For Special Challenges
It may be hard to believe, but once again the Christmas season is upon us. Along with the joy of celebrating the birth of Christ come stress


Consumer's Guide to Medicaid Planning
As the founder of the Elder and Estate Planning Law Firm, I specialize in helping Michigan families protect their estates. Whether you are worried about nursing home expenses that cost an average of almost $12,000.00 per month, assisted living expenses, having your estate avoid probate court or planning for a special needs child or grandchild, I have helped thousands of families obtain peace of mind when faced with such issues. Often this involves qualifying for Medicaid or V


Who Should You Trust?
One of the most important estate planning decisions you will make is deciding who will be responsible for your affairs if you become disabled and who will administer your estate after your death. This “job” often requires a great deal of time and responsibility which can include making health care decisions, paying bills, managing investments, selling a home or vehicle, yearly accountings, filing tax returns, dealing with other family members, etc.


Top 10 Estate Planning Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Estate planning can often seem overwhelming. Fortunately, as a certified elder law attorney, I can help with all of your estate planning


The Essential Documents For Your Loved Ones
Leaving your family to sort through all of your papers after your death or following an emergency is often very time consuming




















