One of the most common requests from clients to probate practitioners is when an individual, upon their passing, wishes to transfer ownership in real property outside of probate proceedings while preserving present control and use of the land.  The utilization of certain deeds as an estate-planning tool to accomplish that goal – affectionately known as “Lady Bird” deeds – is available only in a few states, including Michigan.  This type […]

Governor Whitmer’s latest Executive Order in effect through May 6, 2020 allows any notarial act required under Michigan Law to be done using two-way video technology.  As a result, a financial institution, title insurer, or a register of deeds is prohibited from denying a copy of an electronic record if a notary certifies it under the terms of the Order. (The only exception will be if state law specifically requires […]

In these uncertain times, we would like to bring you a little diversion, entertainment, and fun to help alleviate stress. The elder law attorneys at CMDA just received a shipment of puzzle booklets and would like to send one your way. We hope working on a Sudoku, word search, or crossword puzzle can help ease your mind, if only for a few minutes each day. To receive a complementary puzzle […]

Estate planning documents (wills, trusts, powers of attorney, etc.) are essential in a crisis.  In the present pandemic, our families, friends and customers are dealing with frustrating isolation, sudden debilitating illness, and untimely death.  Each situation presents unique challenges that is best resolved with a specially designed legal document.  Attorney Norman (Gene) Richards has compiled a Coping in Crisis: Estate Planning Challenges and Solutions chart that lists some challenges and […]

CMDA Attorney Norman E. Richards has started a daily vlog where he posts short videos to keep clients and friends informed of ways to handle elder law and estate planning matters during Michigan’s shelter-in-place.  We invite you to visit the Michigan Elder Law Blog daily for updates. He continues to work during this time and is available to answer any questions you may have. Mr. Richards helps clients safely navigate […]

President Trump signed into law the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act) effective January 1, 2020. The Act brings major changes to IRAs and 401(k)s, including the ability to delay distributions, reduced flexibility for inherited IRAs, and penalty-free withdrawals for new parents. This article focuses on the impact the SECURE Act may have on your estate plan. As part of the estate planning process, clients focus […]

In observation of Veterans Day, the Grand Traverse-Leelanau-Antrim Bar Association hosted a Wills for Vets event at the Traverse City Area District Library. Wills and Durable Powers of Attorney for estate planning were prepared for Veterans at no charge.  Matt Cross, an attorney in our Traverse City office, provided his legal services pro bono for the afternoon. He was pleased to provide an opportunity to give thanks to those who […]

CMDA invites you to attend a free educational workshop on Why Families Feud in Probate Court and How to Prevent the Mayhem on Wednesday, October 30th from 6:30-8:30 p.m. at the Novi Civic Center. Attorney Gene Richards draws on his years of experience to highlight the common causes of family fights in probate court and practical ways to keep the peace in your family. He will explain how probate works, […]

Don’t miss it!  Senior Day at the Detroit Zoo will take place on Wednesday, September 4 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tri-county seniors 62 and older and an adult companion receive FREE admission and parking to the Detroit Zoo. Senior Day features live entertainment, tram tours, bingo, zookeeper talks and a senior resource area.  Look for the CMDA booth at the senior resource area and stop by for a free gift. […]

  Join us!  CMDA’s Livonia office is hosting complimentary Lunch & Learn Workshops on elder law, estate planning, and probate.  All Workshops will take place in our Livonia office. Lunch will be provided. There is no charge to attend.  Click here for more information. Estate Planning for Older Adults: Wednesday, March 27 – 12:30-1:30 p.m. Why Families Feud in Probate Court and How to Prevent the Mayhem: Wednesday, April 3 […]