Detroit, MI asked in Real Estate Law and Estate Planning for Michigan

Q: My name is not on the deed of our home. I am the wife. We have been married since 1987. In 2017 no more dower rights.

Does that affect my situation or only the deeds that came after the new 2017 ruling?

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

A: No -- dower was abolished in April 2017 so with the limited exception of widows whose spouse died before then, there is no dower.

BUT there are other 'rights' surviving spouses (of both genders) retain such as electing against a will or inheriting something through intestate succession.

This is a VERY complicated situation, and you and your spouse should consider real estate planning with a local licensed attorney to review YOUR situation and provide real advice. "Shooting from the hip on the internet" is likely to miss something important! Get some local legal advice to better know what you might expect!

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