A common misconception is that the federal gift tax applies to the giver of a gift, not the recipient, for amounts above a specified level. But luckily, most gifts are sheltered from gift tax by the annual gift tax exclusion and the lifetime gift tax…
Michigan is a unique place. It is housed within the Great Lakes Basin, which contains nearly one-fifth of the world’s freshwater supply.[1] Michigan natives use the lakes resources for a variety of things ranging from walleye fishing to sand volleyball and swimming. As such, Michigan’s…
Most people are generally familiar with the term ‘copyright’. It affords authors of original works including: literary, dramatic, musical, and other intellectual property, legal protection from activities like copying. But what happens with the work, and the copyright that protects it from illicit copying, when…
There are many instances where people are taken aback by their loved one’s last wishes. Reviewing a loved one’s will can sometimes be shocking and upsetting. Many times children are left out, or items are devised to others. The terms of the will may seem…
I would like you to digest this piece of information just for a minute: According to “The Balance”, for the first time in the nation’s history there are four generations working together side by side. There are the Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y all…
Here in Michigan, when a nonresident of the state dies and leaves behind assets which are in the state, the courts may designate a personal representative specifically nominated under the decedent’s Will. They may also designate another person if they deem someone else to be…
Interview with Brandy L. Kuretich— Brandy L. Kuretich graduated from The University of Detroit Mercy with a major in Legal Administration. Ms. Kuretich graduated magna cum laude from The University of Detroit Mercy Law School in 2003. Brandy has been a member of the State…
Will your debt die with you? The short answer is probably not. In Michigan your estate is still required to pay your financial debts in most circumstances. This is true whether or not you have a Will. The primary benefit of having a Will…
October 3, 2017—Amber L. Cervantez spoke at Western Michigan University Cooley Law School. The program was entitled “The Art of Networking: Alumni Tips From The Trenches.”
One of the most common misconceptions in probate is that when you die, your debt to Uncle Sam dies with you. Not only is this not the case, but Uncle Sam is one of the strongest debt collectors out there. They have the power to…
