Posted by Andrew Byers | Nov 17, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Nov 13, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Oct 11, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Sep 25, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Sep 12, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Aug 25, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Aug 21, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Aug 07, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jul 28, 2023 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jul 23, 2023 |
This blog post discusses how an elder law attorney can help residents of Troy, Michigan and the rest of Oakland County.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jun 26, 2023 |
Advances in technology may help offset the problems caused by a lack of caregivers and help older people remain in their homes.
Posted by Andrew Byers | May 18, 2023 |
When older people cannot manage their finances, a probate court can appoint a conservator.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Apr 08, 2023 |
The guardianship system for incapacitated adults in Michigan has faced criticism for several issues.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Mar 31, 2023 |
This blog discusses issues to consider when acting as a caregiver for a family member.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Feb 28, 2023 |
This blog is about the requirements to claim your parent as a dependent on your federal income tax return.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jan 20, 2023 |
This article discusses the differences between assisted living and nursing homes.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Dec 23, 2022 |
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.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Nov 04, 2022 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Oct 14, 2022 |
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...
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jan 26, 2021 |
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.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Nov 30, 2020 |
Traditional Long-term Care Insurance faces increasing premiums, decreasing benefits, and less insurers to choose from, but there are other options.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Oct 29, 2020 |
This post discusses the differences between Wills and Trusts created under the estate planning laws of the State of Michigan.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Sep 29, 2020 |
This article reviews important legal issues to address when becoming an adult.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Aug 31, 2020 |
This post discusses the challenges of caring for someone with dementia.
Posted by Andrew Byers | Jun 30, 2020 |
A Last Will and Testament and a Trust are legal instruments that contain a set of instructions that communicate your wishes.