Tavares, FL asked in Estate Planning for Michigan

Q: In michigan with no will and no assets what needs to be done when the last spouse dies

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1 Lawyer Answer
Kenneth V Zichi
Kenneth V Zichi
Answered
  • Estate Planning Lawyer
  • Fowlerville, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: If there truly are NO -- absolutely NONE ZERO ZIP -- assets or debts in the deceased person's name then there really isn't anything that NEEDS to be done.

If there are DEBTS you may need to be on the look out for someone trying to get at FAMILY to pay (they probably can't succeed at that but that doesn't mean they won't try).

I would be remiss however, if I didn't caution to be careful about this. I can't begin to tell you the number of times someone THINKS there is 'nothing to probate' and then 6-9 months later whoops -- there is an insurance policy with no named beneficiary or 'I thought they sold that car' or 'what do you mean there is an inheritance in the works that wasn't finalized yet and they DO have assets, or any one of a million other 'unexpected' situations.

Look carefully and be sure before you just ignore things completely.

--This answer is offered for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney/client relationship. I am licensed to practice in Michigan only. Please seek competent local legal help if you feel you need legal advice!

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