Many people mistakenly believe that without direct heirs—like children or grandchildren—there's no need for estate planning. However, the reality is quite different. Even if you don't have immediate family to inherit your assets, deciding how your estate will be distributed is crucial. If not, yo...
When it comes to estate planning, ensuring that your Last Will and Testament is legally valid is paramount. One of the key components of a valid Will is having witnesses present during its signing. But why is this step so crucial? Our Troy estate lawyer delves into the importance of having witnes...
The loss of a loved one is always a challenging time. Amidst the emotional turmoil, there are several practical tasks that must be undertaken. One of the foremost among these is obtaining the deceased's death certificate. As your local Troy estate lawyer, I'm here to guide you through the process...
Inheriting an asset can be a mixed blessing. While it might signify a meaningful bequest from a loved one, it also comes with its own tax implications. One of the most significant tax features to understand when inheriting property is the "step-up in basis". As an estate planning attorney in Troy...
When navigating the intricacies of Medicaid, particularly when planning for long-term care, you'll encounter terms that might be unfamiliar yet profoundly influential. One such term is "community spouse." As your local Troy elder law attorney, I'm here to demystify this concept and its implicatio...
Inheriting assets is a mix of honor and responsibility. As a Troy probate lawyer, I've seen many people unprepared for the implications of managing their inheritance. The inclination to treat an inheritance as "bonus" money is common, but there are many pragmatic ways to use these funds for futur...
For many retirees, dividing time between two beloved locations is the dream. Known as "snowbirds," these individuals enjoy northern US states in the summer before flocking to warmer climes come winter. For residents of Michigan, snowbird time is usually spent in Florida, South Carolina, or Arizon...
Going through a divorce is an emotionally charged, challenging process. Amid the whirlwind of legal proceedings, contacting an estate planning attorney might not be at the top of your to-do list—but it shou...
Estate planning can seem daunting with its complex terminology and numerous components. But don't worry, this guide from a Troy, Michigan estate planning attorneys guide is here to help you navigate the basics. What exactly is estate planning? Let's define the term to make it clearer. Estate...
This blog post discusses how an elder law attorney can help residents of Troy, Michigan and the rest of Oakland County.
Advances in technology may help offset the problems caused by a lack of caregivers and help older people remain in their homes.
When older people cannot manage their finances, a probate court can appoint a conservator.
The guardianship system for incapacitated adults in Michigan has faced criticism for several issues.
This blog discusses issues to consider when acting as a caregiver for a family member.
This blog is about the requirements to claim your parent as a dependent on your federal income tax return.
This article discusses the differences between assisted living and nursing homes.
This blog is about the 2023 update to the asset rules that apply to married couples when one spouse requires nursing home care in Michigan.
It is tough to know when you should step in and help your parents with their finances. You may go back and forth about when to take over. Deciding whether your parents still have the cognitive ability to manage their money is a difficult call to make. A recent report reveals why it may be importa...
A diagnosis of dementia, a category of diseases affecting memory and thinking that includes Alzheimer's disease, can feel overwhelming and upsetting. You might worry that you will lose control over your life and ability to make your own decisions. Fortunately, receiving a diagnosis of dementia or...
This blog discusses crisis Medicaid planning, which is the legal planning we can assist with when a senior may be about to enter a nursing home or is already in a nursing home.
Traditional Long-term Care Insurance faces increasing premiums, decreasing benefits, and less insurers to choose from, but there are other options.
This post discusses the differences between Wills and Trusts created under the estate planning laws of the State of Michigan.
This article reviews important legal issues to address when becoming an adult.
This post discusses the challenges of caring for someone with dementia.
A Last Will and Testament and a Trust are legal instruments that contain a set of instructions that communicate your wishes.
I help seniors and their families to prevent the devastating financial effects of long term care. I assist and represent clients in and from the entire metro Detroit area, including all communities in Oakland, Macomb, and Wayne Counties. In-person meetings with Andrew Byers are available at his office Monday through Friday. Video conferences over Zoom or Microsoft Teams are also available.