It depends on your situation. A will ensures your wishes are carried out, but it still goes through probate court. A living trust, on the other hand, allows your assets to be managed and distributed without probate, saving your family time, money, and stress. Many families choose to work with an estate planning attorney like Melissa to set up both a will and a trust for complete protection.

Melissa offers flat-rate trust packages, with no hourly billing surprises. This includes the full estate planning package, personalized to your needs. Families across Greater Lansing and Michigan appreciate the clarity of upfront pricing when working with a trust attorney.

If you don’t have an estate plan, Michigan law (intestate succession) decides who inherits your assets — which may not reflect your wishes. Creating a will or trust ensures your voice is heard and your family is protected. To learn what this means for your situation, schedule a consultation with Melissa today.

A will takes effect only after death and must go through probate in Michigan. A living trust is created while you’re alive, goes into effect immediately, and allows your assets to pass directly to beneficiaries without probate. An experienced estate planning lawyer like Melissa can help you decide which option — or combination — best fits your family.

Melissa’s law office is based in DeWitt, Michigan, and she primarily serves families across Greater Lansing and Mid-Michigan — including East Lansing, Okemos, Haslett, Bath, Laingsburg, Owosso, Grand Ledge, and Clinton County. However, she is licensed to practice in the entire state of Michigan and can assist clients with estate planning, wills, and trusts anywhere in Michigan.

With nearly 30 years of experience, Melissa makes the process efficient and straightforward. Most clients complete their wills and trust documents in just a few weeks. She works closely with each family to ensure every estate plan is accurate, thorough, and tailored to their needs.

Yes — Melissa meets with clients both in person at her DeWitt office and through Zoom consultations. Whether you’re in Greater Lansing or anywhere else in Michigan, she can guide you through your estate planning, wills, powers of attorney, and trusts in whichever way is most convenient for you.

It’s never too early. Many clients start after major life events like marriage, having children, or retirement.

Yes, Melissa provides compassionate guidance through the Michigan probate process, helping families manage estates smoothly.