Grand Rapids Estate Planning Attorney
Committed to Providing the Advice You Need to Prepare for the Future
It is never too soon to set up an estate plan. No matter how healthy or young you may be, the fact is that you can never know what the future holds, which is why it is important to start planning now. At Willis Law, our Grand Rapids estate planning attorneys will work with you to create an estate plan that protects your interests and ensures your wishes are respected if you become incapacitated or pass away. Backed by decades of combined experience, you can trust in our team’s ability to assist you.
Reach out to our law office today at (888) 461-7744 to set up a free consultation with one of our Grand Rapids estate planning attorneys to get started!
What to Include in an Estate Plan?
Everyone’s needs are different, so your estate plan will be unique. However, there are generally some elements that are wise to include.
Below are some of the most important elements of an estate plan:
- A will: In your will, you can state to whom you wish your assets and property to be transferred. Additionally, you can also select a guardian for minor children. Otherwise, if you and their other parent die, the state will have to name a guardian for them and it may not be someone you would have approved of.
- A trust: A trust and a will are greatly similar, but they are not identical, which is why it is wise to include both in an estate plan. Creating a trust can help you keep your loved ones out of probate and, moreover, certain trusts can also provide tax advantages for both the beneficiary and the donor.
- Power of attorney: If you become incapacitated, having a power of attorney will ensure you have someone acting on your behalf and taking care of your financial affairs. Without this, the court will have to appoint a guardian or conservator, which can take a lot of time and incur substantial costs.
- Medical directive: A medical directive can contain a variety of different documents, including medical instructions and a durable power of attorney for health care. When you create a medical directive, you can assign someone to make health care decisions on your behalf if you become incapacitated.
People tend to think that estate planning is for the wealthy or that they are too young to think of the future. Neither of these misconceptions are true, however, so do not hesitate to reach out to our estate planning team.
Contact Our Law Office in Grand Rapids to Get Started on Creating an Estate Plan!
Estate planning is an important part of preparing for the future and ensuring your loved ones are cared for when you are gone. At Willis Law in Grand Rapids, our legal team can provide the experienced advice you need to create an effective estate plan.
Reach out to our Grand Rapids estate planning lawyers today at (888) 461-7744 to request a free consultation.

Hear It From Our Clients
The Opinions That Matter-
“I experienced great personal attention from Willis Law. Everyone was above competent. I don’t doubt the quality of legal counsel I received!”
- Thomas F. -
“It was recommended that Willis Law assume my legal affairs by my retiring attorney and I’m very satisfied.”
- Anonymous -
“All things went smoothly and as expected. Very pleased with the resulting estate plan.”
- Anonymous -
“I don’t know how Mariko could be better. She totally exceeded my expectations. If anyone I hear is in need of legal services, Willis will be the first words out of my mouth!”
- James S. -
“Mariko was very professional, but it was also obvious she cared about what we were doing and made sure our experience was a good and productive one. Thank you!!”
- Tim F.
Meet Your Legal Team
Helping You Achieve the Best Possible Outcome-
Michael J. Willis J.D., C.P.A.
Managing Partner
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Shaun P. Willis J.D.
Managing Partner
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Frank D. Willis J.D.
Chief Senior Counsel
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Donald H. Smith, J.D.
Attorney/Partner
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Mariko C. Willis, J.D.
Attorney/Chief Operations Officer
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Samuel R. Gilbertson J.D.
Attorney/Partner
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Jennifer L. Grahek, J.D.
Attorney
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Adam D. Bancroft, J.D.
Attorney
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Davis C. Martin, J.D.
Attorney
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Aric D. Kasel, J.D.
Attorney
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Cody Hayward, J.D.
Attorney
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Verelle Kirkwood J.D.
Of Counsel Attorney
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Kristyn Meulenberg J.D.
Of Counsel Attorney
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Nick Vogelzang
Of Counsel Asbestos Litigation Attorney
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Robin Vleugel
Receptionist
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Michele Guyman
Paralegal
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Brian Thompson
Paralegal
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Patty Stickels
Legal Assistant
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Kay Davidson
Legal Assistant
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Kerrie Leclercq
Legal Assistant
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Karen Zimmerman
Legal Assistant
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Nick Tuori
Legal Extern
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Austin J. Beaudet
Legal Extern
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Max Antonneau
Client Service Specialist
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Mark Zigterman
Accountant
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Margarita Jensen
Intake Coordinator
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Erin Willis
Courier
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Patrick Willis
Courier