Estate Planning

Estate Planning Attorney

Planning for the future can feel overwhelming, but with the right guidance, it doesn't have to be. At the Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C., we’re here to help you protect what matters most. Contact us to learn more.

While you can’t control the future, you can make plans to safeguard your family and assets. That’s where estate planning comes in — ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for, no matter what happens.

If you’re ready to take control of your future, the Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C., is here to help. Read on to learn how a Detroit estate planning attorney can help you create a comprehensive estate plan.

How Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C. Can Help You with Estate Planning

Creating an estate plan is about more than just drafting documents — it’s about peace of mind. Here’s how we can help:

Assessing your needs. During our initial consultation, we’ll discuss your goals and concerns to understand your unique situation.
Drafting key documents. Whether you need a will, trust, power of attorney, or healthcare directive, we’ll ensure all your legal documents align with your wishes.
Protecting your assets. From minimizing estate taxes to safeguarding your property, we’ll help you preserve your legacy.
Planning for loved ones. We can guide you in making provisions for minor children, elderly parents, or family members with special needs.
Updating your plan. Life changes, and so should your estate plan. We’ll help you keep it current as your circumstances evolve.

Throughout the process, your Detroit estate planning attorney will be available to answer questions, address concerns, and provide personalized advice.

Why Estate Planning Matters

Estate planning is about more than dividing up your belongings — it’s about protecting your loved ones, avoiding unnecessary legal complications, and ensuring your wishes are honored.

With a comprehensive estate plan, you can:

Prevent family disputes over your estate
Ensure minor children are cared for by a trusted guardian
Protect loved ones with special needs without jeopardizing their benefits
Minimize taxes and maximize the value of your estate
Make your medical and financial wishes clear in case of incapacity

No matter your age or the size of your estate, it’s never too early to plan for the future.

Key Estate Planning Services We Offer

The Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C., offers a full range of estate planning services in Detroit, including the following:

Wills. Ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
Trusts. From revocable living trusts to irrevocable trusts, we’ll help you protect your assets and avoid probate.
Powers of attorney. Appoint trusted individuals to manage your finances or make healthcare decisions if you’re unable to.
Healthcare directives. Outline your medical preferences to guide your loved ones and healthcare providers.
Estate tax planning. Strategically reduce estate taxes to preserve more of your wealth for your heirs.
Probate and estate administration. Ensure your estate is handled efficiently and according to the law.

Common Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Estate planning isn’t just about putting documents in place — it’s about ensuring those documents work the way you need them to. Unfortunately, some common mistakes can lead to big problems down the road.

Here are a few pitfalls to watch out for and why working with an experienced Detroit estate planning lawyer can help you avoid them:

Failing to Update Your Will After Major Life Events

Life doesn’t stand still, and neither should your estate plan. Marriages, divorces, births, deaths, and other significant changes can affect your wishes. If you don’t update your will to reflect these events, you risk leaving outdated instructions that may not align with your current goals.

Naming the Wrong Executor or Trustee

The person you choose to carry out your estate plan will have significant responsibilities, including managing your assets and resolving any disputes. Choosing someone who isn’t trustworthy, capable, or willing to take on the role could create unnecessary delays and conflicts.

Overlooking Digital Assets

These days, your online presence is almost as important as your physical property. Failing to include digital assets — such as email accounts, social media profiles, and cryptocurrency — in your estate plan can leave these items unprotected or inaccessible to your loved ones.

Not Accounting for Estate Taxes

Depending on the size of your estate, taxes could significantly reduce what your heirs receive. But with proper planning, your loved ones can face many fewer unnecessary financial burdens.

An estate planning attorney in Detroit can help you structure your estate to minimize taxes and preserve more of your wealth.

Detroit Estate Planning FAQs

Estate planning is complicated, so it’s normal to have questions. Fortunately, our attorneys have the answers you need. Here are some common questions we’ve seen:

Without a plan, Michigan law decides how your assets are distributed — and it may not align with your wishes.

Wills and trusts serve different purposes. A trust can help avoid probate and provide more control over how and when your assets are distributed.

Generally, you should review your estate plan every few years or after major life events like marriage, divorce, or the birth of a child. But speak with an attorney to understand how often you should review your plan based on your specific circumstances.

A will outlines how your assets should be distributed after your death, while a living will specifies your medical preferences if you’re unable to communicate due to illness or injury. Both are important components of a comprehensive estate plan.

Absolutely. Your estate plan should evolve with your life. You can update your will, trust, or other documents as your circumstances change, such as after a marriage, divorce, birth, or significant financial event.

While there are DIY estate planning tools, working with an experienced Detroit estate attorney helps ensure that your documents comply with Michigan law, reflect your unique needs, and reduce the risk of disputes or complications down the road.

Ohio Estate Planning FAQs

Estate planning is a critical step in securing your assets and ensuring your wishes are honored. Below are some common questions about estate planning in Ohio:

Without an estate plan, Ohio intestacy laws determine how your assets are distributed. This may not align with your wishes and can lead to complications for your heirs.

Wills and trusts serve different functions. A trust can help you avoid probate and allow for greater control over how and when your assets are distributed to beneficiaries.

You should review your estate plan every few years or after significant life events such as marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, or major financial changes. Consulting an attorney can help ensure your plan remains up to date.

A will dictates how your assets are distributed after your death, while a living will specifies your healthcare preferences if you become incapacitated and cannot communicate your wishes.

Yes, your estate plan should evolve with your life circumstances. You can update your will, trust, or other legal documents as needed.

While DIY estate planning tools exist, working with an Ohio estate planning attorney ensures your documents comply with state law and effectively protect your assets and loved ones.

Secure Your Legacy with the Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C.

Estate planning is one of the most important steps you can take to financially protect yourself and your loved ones. The Law Offices of Miller & Miller, P.C., is here to guide you through the process with compassion, professionalism, and experience.

To learn more about creating a personalized estate plan in Detroit, contact us online.