Michigan estate planning is one of the most important—but often overlooked—New Year’s resolutions families can make. As the calendar turns to a new year, many Michigan residents focus on organizing finances, setting goals, and protecting what matters most. Creating or updating an estate plan is a powerful way to bring clarity, control, and peace of mind to your family’s future.
But there is one resolution that often gets overlooked—although it can have a lasting impact on the people you love most: creating or updating an estate plan under Michigan law.
Estate planning is not about dwelling on worst-case scenarios. It is about clarity, control, and peace of mind for your family—especially in a state like Michigan, where probate laws and court procedures can significantly affect how an estate is handled.
Why Estate Planning Matters for Michigan Families
When a Michigan resident passes away or becomes incapacitated without a proper estate plan, their loved ones are often left with uncertainty at the worst possible time. Important questions arise immediately:
Who can access bank accounts and pay bills?
Who has the authority to make medical decisions?
Who is legally responsible for handling property and assets?
Without the right legal documents in place, families are often forced into Michigan probate court, even when everyone agrees on what should happen. Probate can be time-consuming, expensive, and emotionally draining.
A well-designed Michigan estate plan helps families avoid unnecessary probate, reduce delays, and eliminate confusion—allowing loved ones to focus on healing rather than legal paperwork.
Estate Planning Is Not Just for the Wealthy or Elderly in Michigan
One of the most common misconceptions we hear is that estate planning is only for wealthy individuals or retirees. In reality, estate planning is essential for many Michigan families, especially those who:
Own a home
Have retirement accounts or life insurance
Have blended families
Want to protect a spouse or children
Want to avoid court involvement after death
Even a modest estate can become complicated under Michigan’s intestacy laws if there is no plan in place.
Is a Will Enough Under Michigan Law?
Many people believe that having a will solves everything. While a will is an important document, it is often only one piece of a complete Michigan estate plan.
In many cases, a will alone still requires probate. Depending on your goals, a comprehensive plan may also include:
A revocable living trust to avoid probate
Durable powers of attorney for financial decisions
Patient advocate designations for medical decisions
Proper asset titling and beneficiary designations
Without these pieces working together, even a well-intentioned plan can fall short when your family needs it most.
Why January Is a Smart Time to Create or Review a Michigan Estate Plan
The beginning of a new year is a natural time for organization and planning. Many Michigan families review finances, update insurance, and set long-term goals in January. Estate planning fits perfectly into that mindset.
January is an ideal time to:
Review beneficiary designations
Confirm how your home and assets are titled
Update decision-makers for medical and financial matters
Make sure your plan reflects current Michigan law
If you already have an estate plan, a yearly review is just as important. Life changes quickly, and an outdated plan can unintentionally cause probate delays, family conflict, or results you never intended.
Estate Planning Is a Gift to Your Family
Perhaps the most meaningful way to think about estate planning is as a gift. It is a gift of clarity to your spouse, protection for your children, and peace of mind for your loved ones.
Unlike many New Year’s resolutions that fade by February, estate planning continues to benefit your family for years to come. It reduces stress, lowers costs, and prevents unnecessary court involvement during difficult times.
Make 2026 the Year You Protect Your Family’s Future
As you set goals for the year ahead, consider whether this is the year you want to remove uncertainty from your family’s future. Taking action now can mean fewer complications, lower expenses, and far greater peace of mind for your loved ones.
If you are ready to create or review a Michigan estate plan—or simply want to understand your options—speaking with an experienced Michigan estate planning attorney can bring clarity and confidence.
Make 2026 the year you protect your family, your assets, and your peace of mind.