Probate & Estate Law
Plan for the Future. Protect What Matters Most.
Life is unpredictable, but your family’s future doesn’t have to be uncertain. At Schmeltzer Law, we help clients across Michigan plan ahead with thoughtful estate planning and guide families through the probate process with care and clarity.
Whether you’re preparing your own estate plan or managing a loved one’s affairs, our role is to make complex legal processes simple, compassionate, and stress-free.
Understanding Probate & Estate Planning
Estate planning is more than just writing a will — it’s about making sure your wishes are honored and your loved ones are cared for. Probate, on the other hand, is the court-supervised process of settling a person’s estate after they pass away.
Both areas can feel overwhelming, but with the right legal guidance, you can make confident decisions that protect your family’s legacy, minimize conflict, and reduce unnecessary costs.
At Schmeltzer Law, we combine practical experience with personal attention, helping you create or administer an estate plan that’s tailored to your unique circumstances.
Key Areas of Probate & Estate Law
A strong estate plan ensures your assets are distributed according to your wishes and your family avoids unnecessary court involvement. We assist with:
Wills and trusts
Durable and medical powers of attorney
Living wills and advance healthcare directives
Guardianship planning for minors
Trust administration and updates as circumstances change
Our goal is to help you plan thoughtfully — not just for today, but for every chapter ahead.
Probate Administration
Losing a loved one is difficult enough without the added stress of court paperwork, deadlines, and disputes. We guide executors, administrators, and beneficiaries through every step of the probate process — from filing the necessary petitions to distributing assets properly and closing the estate.
We make sure your loved one’s wishes are carried out smoothly, respectfully, and in full compliance with Michigan law.
Trust Administration
Trusts are an effective way to manage and distribute assets outside of probate, but they still require careful oversight. We help trustees understand their duties, meet reporting obligations, and navigate potential disputes with transparency and accuracy.
Comprehensive Guidance for Every Stage
Estate planning and probate can feel overwhelming — but with the right support, the process becomes clear and manageable. Schmeltzer Law provides step-by-step guidance through each stage, ensuring your wishes are honored and your loved ones are protected.
Planning Ahead
We help you organize assets, create wills and trusts, and establish powers of attorney that reflect your goals — reducing stress and uncertainty for your family.
Probate Administration
When a loved one passes, we guide you through every legal requirement with compassion and efficiency, ensuring assets are distributed properly and respectfully.
Continued Support
We assist with updates, trust management, and legal adjustments as your circumstances or Michigan laws change — keeping your plan effective for years to come.
At Schmeltzer Law, our goal is to make estate and probate matters simple, secure, and handled with care.
Why Choose Schmeltzer Law
Estate planning and probate require not just legal skill but also understanding, patience, and trust. At Schmeltzer Law, we combine legal precision with genuine compassion to guide you through important life decisions with clarity and confidence.
“Estate planning and probate are deeply personal matters. My goal is to make the process feel less overwhelming — and to help clients find comfort in knowing their family and legacy are protected.”
— Lori Schmeltzer, Attorney & Founder
With Schmeltzer Law, you’re not just getting legal assistance — you’re gaining a trusted partner who will protect your wishes, respect your values, and support your family’s future.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Your future — and your family’s peace of mind — deserve protection. Contact Schmeltzer Law today to schedule a consultation and start planning with confidence.