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What Type of Facts Support a “Confidential or Fiduciary Relationship” Determination to Trigger the Presumption of Undue Influence?

Two recent Michigan Court of Appeals cases delve into what it takes to successfully pursue an undue influence claim. In re Sherrod Estate, No 369863, 2025 WL 855275 (Mich Ct App Mar 18, 2025) (unpublished) and In re Estate of...more

Slayer Statute — Does a Crime Committed Against the Decedent Impact Inheriting from the Decedent under Michigan Law?

Yes, depending on the nature of the crime and if convicted. In re Donald F. Clark Trust, Court of Appeals January 16, 2025 (unpublished). This appeal involved the probate court's winddown of the Donald F. Clark Trust....more

When Can the Probate Court Bypass a Nominated Personal Representative in a Will and Appoint Someone Else?

As background, according to MCL 700.3203(1), a person named in a will to serve as personal representation has priority of appointment unless that person is disqualified. A person is disqualified if they are unsuitable to...more

Do Estate Beneficiaries Have a Default Right to Live in Estate Property Rent Free Until the Property is Distributed?

No, according to In re Estate of Elze D. Harris, Docket No. 362364 (September 28, 2023). In Estate of Harris, the decedent’s three children were embroiled in litigation over who should control their deceased father’s...more

Can a Court Change the Beneficiaries of a Trust if Estate Planning Changes Were Intended but not Accomplished Before Death?

A person communicates a desire to make estate planning changes in the future but dies before the changes are made. Can a court modify or reform a trust to give effect to this intent? No. In re Brody Trust, Docket No 362214...more

Are Oral Instructions for Real Estate Transfers Enforceable in Probate Court?

A person receives real estate with oral instructions to transfer it to another person. Is that transfer enforceable when the instructions are not in writing? No, it is not enforceable according to In re Estate of Finney,...more

Undue Influence Claims: Does Assisting an Elderly Person with Their Finances Create a Confidential/Fiduciary Relationship?

In Horton, the Michigan Court of Appeals explores the nuisances of an undue influence claim and when the presumption of undue influence can be triggered. Undue influence is a claim that can void a legal transaction if it is...more

[Webinar] Family Business Succession – The Good, the Bad and the Lessons Learned - May 23rd, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm ET

Join Warner Norcross + Judd LLP attorneys Charles Ash, Matt Johnson and Laura Morris for a webinar discussion on family business succession and the challenges and opportunities to a successful transition. In this webinar, we...more

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