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Estate planning in Detroit, MI
Michigan eliminated its estate tax in 2005 — but the state's lady-bird deed is a uniquely powerful tool here.
Why this matters in Detroit
The local angle
Michigan offers the 'Lady-Bird Deed' (enhanced life estate deed) which lets a homeowner transfer property at death without probate while retaining full control during life — including the right to sell or mortgage without the beneficiary's consent. It's one of the most powerful estate-planning tools available, used by tens of thousands of Michigan families.
Local nuance
Lady-bird deeds also help with Medicaid estate recovery because the property doesn't become an asset of the estate at death — it transfers directly to the named grantee outside probate.
Top concerns for Detroit families
- Lady-Bird Deed for primary residence
- Medicaid estate-recovery planning
- No state estate tax
- Wayne County probate timing
Michigan state law
At a glance
Detroit estate work is governed by Michigan state law. Here's what every family should know.
$2,000–$4,000 + small statutory fees
Petition for assignment MCL §700.3982
No inheritance tax
Spousal rights
Elective share: 1/2 of augmented estate (MUPC adopted)
Common pitfalls
- Michigan adopted MUPC — terminology differs from older common-law states
- Lady-bird deeds (enhanced life estate) are popular in MI for avoiding probate
- Outdated beneficiary designations override the will
- Real estate in another state triggers ancillary probate
- Joint tenancy with non-spouse can create unintended consequences
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Also serving
Cities we cover
New York, NY
5 boroughs, 62 counties, one Surrogate's Court system — and family estate work that often crosses jurisdictions.
Los Angeles, CA
California Probate Court is statutory-fee — and inherited Prop-13-protected homes are the family-fight epicenter.
Chicago, IL
Illinois has a $4M state estate tax exemption — the lowest of any state — meaning more Chicago families face state estate tax.
Houston, TX
Independent administration makes Texas probate fast and cheap — but community property rules trip up blended families.