Aldrich Legal Services

Estate Planning & Probate Attorneys in Plymouth, Michigan

Estate planning often becomes more complicated when a family is trying to prepare for more than the distribution of property. A parent may want to name a guardian for young children, a business owner may need a plan for transferring ownership, or family members may later disagree about whether a will reflects a loved one's true intentions. Aldrich Legal Services assists Michigan clients with estate planning, probate, and related legal matters that address these challenges before—and sometimes after—they arise.

The firm's practice includes estate planning, probate administration, probate litigation, business succession planning, guardianships, conservatorships, and real estate matters, allowing it to assist clients with estates that involve both family and business interests.

Naming the Right People Before Decisions Have to Be Made

One of the most important aspects of estate planning is deciding who will make decisions when you no longer can. Parents may need to choose a guardian for minor children, while other adults often need to appoint trusted individuals to handle financial matters or make healthcare decisions during periods of incapacity.

Preparing these documents in advance helps provide clear legal authority and can reduce the likelihood that family members will need to seek court intervention during an already stressful time.

When Probate Involves More Than Filing Paperwork

Many people are surprised to learn that administering an estate can involve much more than distributing property. Personal representatives are responsible for locating assets, notifying creditors, paying valid debts and taxes, and ensuring that remaining property is transferred according to the will or Michigan law.

Aldrich Legal Services assists personal representatives and beneficiaries throughout the probate process, helping them understand their legal responsibilities and move the estate toward completion.

Resolving Disputes Over a Will or Trust

Not every estate is settled without disagreement. Questions sometimes arise about whether a loved one had the capacity to sign a will, whether someone exercised undue influence over an elderly relative, or whether a trustee or personal representative is fulfilling their fiduciary duties.

The firm represents clients in probate litigation involving contested wills, trusts, fiduciary disputes, and other conflicts that can delay the administration of an estate. These matters often require careful review of family relationships, financial records, and the circumstances surrounding estate planning decisions.

Planning for a Family Business or Investment Property

For some families, an estate includes more than personal belongings and a residence. A closely held business, commercial property, or investment real estate may require additional planning to determine who will manage, inherit, or eventually sell those assets.

Because Aldrich Legal Services also practices business and real estate law, estate planning can be coordinated with ownership interests, succession planning, and property transfers so that these assets are addressed as part of the overall estate plan rather than treated separately.

Guardianships and Conservatorships

When illness, injury, or cognitive decline leaves someone unable to manage personal or financial affairs, families may need legal authority to act on that person's behalf. If powers of attorney are unavailable or no longer sufficient, court proceedings may become necessary.

Aldrich Legal Services represents clients in guardianship and conservatorship matters, helping families understand the legal process and the responsibilities associated with these court-appointed roles.

Estate Planning for Families Across Southeast Michigan

Based in Plymouth, Aldrich Legal Services works with individuals, families, business owners, personal representatives, and trustees throughout Southeast Michigan. Its estate planning and probate practice addresses both advance planning and the legal issues that arise after a death, particularly when an estate includes business interests, real estate, or family disputes that require careful legal guidance.

Practice Areas

• Estate Planning

• Wills

• Trusts

• Probate Administration

• Probate Litigation

• Will Contests

• Trust Litigation

• Business Succession Planning

• Guardianships

• Conservatorships

• Powers of Attorney

• Healthcare Directives

• Real Estate Planning

• Estate Administration