Probate Administration Lawyer for Settling an Estate

Probate administration is the court-supervised process of gathering a decedent’s assets, paying their final expenses, resolving creditor claims, and distributing property to heirs or beneficiaries. If the individual left a will, probate ensures it is validated and carried out properly. If there is no will, the estate follows Michigan’s intestacy laws to determine who inherits.

The process begins when someone—often a family member listed in the will—files a petition with the probate court to open the estate. The court then appoints a personal representative (also known as an executor or administrator), who becomes responsible for handling the estate according to the law. Probate administration can be simple or complex depending on the assets involved, the clarity of the will, and whether disputes arise. At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we help you understand each requirement, complete each step correctly, and avoid delays.

Once appointed, the personal representative is legally responsible for managing the estate. This role comes with significant duties, and the court requires accuracy, transparency, and adherence to deadlines. The representative must:

• Secure and identify all probate assets
• Notify heirs, beneficiaries, and known creditors
• File an inventory of assets with the court
• Open an estate account to handle expenses
• Pay valid debts, taxes, and final bills
• Resolve creditor claims within the required timeframe
• Keep accurate records of all estate transactions
• Distribute remaining property according to the will or state law

A personal representative must act in the best interests of the estate, and mistakes can lead to legal liability. Our attorneys provide step-by-step support, helping you understand your duties, preparing required filings, and guiding you through the probate timeline. We ensure you stay compliant with Michigan law and fulfill your role with confidence.

One of the most important parts of probate administration is identifying which assets must go through probate. Some items—like jointly owned property, trust assets, or financial accounts with designated beneficiaries—transfer automatically and do not require probate. Everything else must be located, documented, valued, and reported to the court.

We help personal representatives gather and manage:

• Real estate
• Bank and investment accounts
• Vehicles, boats, and titled property
• Retirement accounts and life insurance payable to the estate
• Business interests
• Personal property such as jewelry, artwork, and household items

After identifying assets, the representative must pay the decedent’s final expenses, including medical bills, funeral costs, credit card balances, professional fees, and any taxes owed. Only after debts are satisfied can the estate be distributed to heirs or beneficiaries. We ensure asset valuation is accurate, assist with creditor negotiations, and guide you through final distribution so the estate can be closed properly.

Not all estates progress smoothly. Sometimes legal issues arise that complicate probate and require professional intervention. Our attorneys provide support for:

• Disputes over the validity of a will
• Conflicts between beneficiaries
• Estates with missing documents or unclear ownership
• Situations where business interests must be liquidated
• Estates involving significant debt or tax concerns
• Locating assets in multiple counties or states
• Heirs who cannot be found
• Challenges to a personal representative’s appointment

Our goal is always to help families avoid unnecessary conflict. When disputes cannot be resolved informally, we advocate for you in probate court to protect your interests and uphold the decedent’s wishes.

If you are responsible for settling a loved one’s estate, you do not have to navigate the probate process alone. At Mihelich & Kavanaugh, PLC, we guide families through probate administration with clarity, structure, and compassionate support. Our attorneys will walk you through what to expect, help you understand your responsibilities, and ensure the estate is handled properly from start to finish.

Call our office today or complete our secure online contact form to schedule a consultation. Let us take the legal burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your family and your loved one’s legacy.