Julie McCowan, Attorney & Counselor

Probate & Guardianship Attorney in Farmington, Michigan

Julie McCowan focuses her practice on probate matters involving guardianships, conservatorships, elder financial abuse, probate administration, and probate litigation. Rather than offering broad estate planning services, her practice centers on helping families resolve situations where a loved one is no longer able to safely manage personal, medical, or financial affairs.

Her background as a former child welfare social worker, U.S. Army Reserve veteran, and advocate for protecting older adults from financial exploitation brings a perspective that combines legal representation with an understanding of the practical challenges families face during periods of crisis.

Helping Families Protect Incapacitated Adults

There are times when an aging parent or vulnerable adult can no longer safely make decisions about healthcare, housing, finances, or daily living. Without legal authority, family members may be unable to step in even when help is clearly needed.

Julie McCowan represents families seeking guardianships and conservatorships through the Michigan probate courts, helping them obtain the authority necessary to protect a loved one's wellbeing and financial interests while complying with court requirements.

Guiding Guardians and Conservators Through Their Responsibilities

Being appointed by the probate court is only the beginning of a guardian's or conservator's responsibilities. Ongoing reporting, financial recordkeeping, court filings, and annual accountings can quickly become overwhelming for someone unfamiliar with the process.

The practice assists court-appointed fiduciaries with understanding their legal obligations and navigating the continuing responsibilities that accompany guardianships and conservatorships.

Addressing Elder Financial Exploitation

Financial exploitation of older adults often occurs at the hands of someone the victim knows or trusts. Concerns about unauthorized use of bank accounts, misuse of a power of attorney, or improper transfers of money and property may require legal intervention to protect a vulnerable individual.

Julie McCowan has devoted significant professional attention to issues involving elder financial abuse and works with families facing situations where financial exploitation has become a concern.

Assisting Families with Probate Matters

Following the death of a loved one, family members may need assistance opening a probate estate or resolving disputes that arise during the administration process.

The practice represents clients in probate estate administration and probate litigation, providing guidance through the court process when legal issues cannot be resolved informally.

A Practice Focused on Vulnerable Individuals

In addition to representing clients in probate matters, Julie McCowan has served on the Farmington Area Commission on Aging and has participated in community education efforts involving elder financial exploitation. Her professional experience also includes training law enforcement on responding to financial abuse involving older adults, reflecting a practice that places particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable members of the community.

Serving Clients in Farmington and Beyond

Julie McCowan serves clients from her Farmington, Michigan office. She also offers visits to clients in hospitals, nursing homes, and private residences when circumstances make travel difficult.

Practice Areas

• Guardianships

• Conservatorships

• Elder Financial Abuse

• Probate Estate Administration

• Probate Litigation