If the value of the estate to which you are an heir or personal representative is worth more than $22,000 after funeral and burial expenses are paid, you will have a choice to proceed with either supervised administration or unsupervised administration. To avoid probate altogether, the decedent's assets must generally have another person listed as co-owner or as a beneficiary.

When the value of assets is greater than $22,000; when the estate is particularly large or complex; or when you would like some added security if disputes arise in the estate administration process, you will need to work through the formal probate administration process.

Two Types of Formal Probate Administration in Michigan

You will be able to choose between supervised probate and unsupervised probate, both of which will be completed in front of a probate judge, but with different levels of oversight. In either decision, you should first consult an experienced probate administration attorney.

At Willis Law, we are committed to providing straightforward, honest legal counsel to each of our clients. With offices in Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids and Paw Paw, we are available to meet with you or speak over the phone to help you understand your options and make informed decisions throughout the probate process.

Unsupervised probate administration allows the personal representative's (PR's) activities to take effect without prior approval of the probate court. It is often preferred because it is less costly and usually quicker than supervised administration. It also prevents many details of the administration process and the estate to enter the public record, providing more privacy. The PR or any heir, beneficiary (devisee) or creditor to the estate can always request court supervision.

Choosing Supervised Probate Administration in Michigan

We will advise supervised probate in many instances involving substantial and complex assets in an estate and in situations involving parties who seek the highest level of security and peace of mind in the probate process.

Supervised probate requires probate court review and approval in each step of the probate administration, including all transactions, distributions and accounting procedures. The PR will have to gain approvals for most activities throughout the process of administering the estate.

Gaining court approval will increase costs and time required to settle the estate, but all parties will have greater protection from distribution losses and claims against the estate.

Speak With One of Our Lawyers Today

We offer free initial consultations to all new clients. Please call us toll free at (888) 461-7744 or email us to speak with a lawyer. Every estate administration case is unique and demands professional legal attention for best possible results. Preserve assets, protect your rights and minimize liabilities with our counsel and representation.