Belleville, MI asked in Probate for Michigan

Q: How can I see if my parents left a will and if me and my sister are a part of it What information will I need and

Where would I go to find that out I’m in the state of Michigan

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2 Lawyer Answers
Andrew M Steiger
Andrew M Steiger
Answered
  • St. Clair Shores, MI
  • Licensed in Michigan

A: There are a few options that may work. Often times a child of a deceased parent will have to go through the parent’s records and files at the parent’s home to find the will. Another option may be a safety deposit box at the parent’s bank. The existence of a safety deposit box may be found through reviewing bank records and bills for bank services. You could also check with the parent’s personal attorney who may have a copy of the will on file or be aware of the original will’s location. Lastly, the county may have a copy if your parent filed the will with the county. Probably unlikely but possible.

This is a common problem and may require a lot of digging. It’s also possible they just didn’t draft one. If they did, and they kept a folder with important documents like birth certificates or bank statements, probably best to check there first. Good luck.

Trent Harris agrees with this answer

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

A: You leave out the most critical piece of information. Where were your PARENTS at the time of their passing? Specifically, the latter one to pass. That county would be the first place to start looking -- in Michigan Probate Courts often have 'safe storage' for people to use for wills during their lifetime, and once they have died, relatives or other interested persons can search for that information and begin probate to be able to look at the text of the will.

If there was no stored will, Mr Steiger's suggestions are the next process to go through. If your parents are still alive, the only way to get this information is to ask them. They do not HAVE to provide answers, but they are the only ones who can during their lifetimes.

I hope this helps.

--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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