Being a fiduciary is a huge responsibility. When you serve as a fiduciary (personal representative, guardian, conservator or trustee) it is important to follow all of the requisite statutes and court rules. The fiduciary is expected to complete his or her duties within a reasonable period of time and within the timelines set forth by [...]
When you take on the important role of serving as a Conservator on behalf of another person one of the required responsibilities is to account for the finances. Michigan statute MCL 700.5418 provides that a conservator shall account to the court for administration not less than annually unless the court directs otherwise, upon resignation or [...]
You have been appointed as a fiduciary by the probate court, but you live out of state or even out of the country. What do you do? Well, distance from the probate court can make it difficult to stay up to date and to fulfill your duties as a guardian, conservator, or personal representative. Hiring local counsel [...]
There comes a time where an individual may no longer be able to reliably handle their own finances or make decisions that are in their best interest. Because of this, people are allowed to legally enlist someone to serve as a conservator or guardian. As discussed previously, a conservator is an individual appointed by the [...]
Last week, pop music star Britney Spears completed her 30-day stay at a mental health facility and has been doing just fine since. TMZ reported that the reasons for her being there stemmed from her father’s recent illness taking a toll on her, as well as her medicine not being as effective as it used [...]
The Probate ProSM, is proud to have Angela Esseily as a member of the team. Joining in March 2019, Angela helps The Probate ProSM with conservatorship and guardianship cases. Sitting down with Angela, she shared with us her experiences that led her to where she is today. The Probate Pro (TPP): You have a [...]
Not too long ago, we took a look at five things people should consider when choosing a guardian. This week, we’ll discuss three things people should consider when choosing a conservator. A conservator is responsible for handling an individual’s financial accounts and statements, making sure the individual needing conservatorship has nothing to worry about. With [...]
What is the difference between a Conservator and Guardian? In the court of law, an adult who is unable to take care of themselves or their property and minors are considered to be incapacitated persons. An incapacitated adult or minor will need someone to oversee them, assuring their safety and well-being. Enter guardians and conservators, [...]
Conservator Appointment in Michigan Unfortunately, there are times when a person is not able to manage their own financial affairs. If the person has failed to adequately plan with a Power of Attorney, a person, called a “conservator” can be appointed by the probate court in which the individual resides. Upon the filing of a [...]
An electronic will was accepted as valid, but at what cost to the heirs? A Michigan man passes away and leaves behind, in lieu of a properly drafted will, a handwritten note that directs to a will that he wrote out on his cellphone. The man left his mother out of the will that he [...]
