Are you a new resident of Michigan? Moving to a new state comes with a multitude of tasks, from changing your address to unpacking boxes and setting up utilities and Internet in your new home.
It’s easy to overlook the need to review your existing estate plan and make any necessary changes after relocating, but it may be crucial to meet with a Michigan estate planner to discuss this.
As people increasingly move from one state to another, whether for a new job, to be closer to family, seek new adventures, or embark on retirement, there are many reasons to consider a change in residency.
If you previously had an estate plan in another state, even if your attorney drafted a last will and testament for you there, it could be advantageous to consult with a Michigan estate planning lawyer to ensure it complies with Michigan laws. While your current document from another state might be valid in Michigan, there could be issues with out-of-state wills, particularly since other states may use different terminology to describe aspects of probate and certain roles.
Some of these terms can be easily translated. For instance, Michigan uses the term “personal representative,” while other states might refer to the same individual as a “state administrator” or “executor.” An out-of-state last will can potentially pose problems, and it’s advisable to establish a new will or, at the very least, have a Michigan estate planning attorney review your current out-of-state will to determine if any potential issues may arise.