Collens Estate Law

05/20/2026

A conservator of a minor child is responsible for managing financial assets until the child reaches adulthood.

Key responsibilities include:
• Managing inheritances or death benefits
• Keeping detailed financial records
• Filing annual accounting reports with the probate court
• Making financial decisions that serve the child’s best interests

Once the child turns 18 in Michigan, the conservatorship ends and the remaining assets are transferred to the individual who is now an adult.

Choosing the right person for this role is an important decision for families navigating probate matters.

Call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com to learn more.

Our experienced estate and probate lawyers in Detroit Michigan provide personalized legal solutions to secure your assets and plan for the future.

05/18/2026

Guardianships and conservatorship are often confused but serve two different purposes.

Guardian responsibilities:
• Healthcare decisions
• Schooling and daily care
• Living arrangements

Conservator responsibilities:
• Managing financial assets
• Handling inheritances or death benefits
• Filing financial reports with the court

Even if a minor child already has a guardian, the court will still require a conservator to manage financial assets intended for the child.

Questions about guardianship or conservatorship?
Call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

05/14/2026

Many parents believe their minor children can simply inherit money directly after a family member passes away. Unfortunately, Michigan law does not allow minors to control financial assets.

Common sources of funds that require court oversight include:
• Life insurance proceeds
• Wrongful death settlements
• Social Security survivor benefits
• Estate distributions

Before these funds can be released, the probate court will generally require a conservatorship be set up to ensure the assets are properly managed for the child’s benefit until adulthood.

For guidance, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

05/12/2026

When a loved one passes away and leaves money to a minor child, many families assume the funds can simply be transferred to the surviving parent. In Michigan, that is not the case.

Minors cannot legally receive or manage financial assets such as life insurance proceeds, wrongful death settlements, or inheritances. Before these funds can be distributed, the probate court typically requires the appointment of a conservator to manage the assets on the child’s behalf.

While this requirement may seem inconvenient during an already difficult time, it exists to protect the minor’s financial future and ensure that funds intended for the child are responsibly managed until adulthood.

Call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com to learn more about establishing a conservatorship for a minor.

05/08/2026

Do not attempt to access accounts before receiving your court appointment and Letters of Authority. The probate process is designed to safeguard the estate, the beneficiaries, and you as Personal Representative.

Professional guidance often reduces stress, shortens timelines, and ensures compliance with Michigan probate requirements.

Serving as Personal Representative is a significant responsibility. You do not have to navigate it alone.

If you need assistance gaining access to accounts or administering an estate, call Collens Estate Law at (248) 265-3176 or visit CollensEstateLaw.com to schedule a consultation.

05/06/2026

Some institutions require certified copies of court documents. Others insist on original sealed documents. Out of state or international matters may require notarization, medallion signature guarantees, or apostille certification.

Requesting multiple certified copies from the court at the outset can prevent unnecessary delays later.

Proper preparation reduces frustration and protects your timeline.
For assistance navigating documentation requirements, contact Collens Estate Law at (248) 265-3176 or visit CollensEstateLaw.com today.

05/05/2026

Setting realistic timeline expectations is essential.

Initial document gathering often takes several weeks. Financial institution verification typically requires three to ten business days per institution. Full access and transfers commonly take at least three to four weeks from court appointment.

Complex estates, contested matters, and investment accounts can extend this timeline significantly.

If you need help navigating probate efficiently and managing expectations, call Collens Estate Law at (248) 265-3176 or visit CollensEstateLaw.com to learn how we assist Personal Representatives.

05/01/2026

Digital assets and cryptocurrency present unique challenges in estate administration.

Without passwords, private keys, or wallet access, recovery may be impossible. Personal Representatives should search for exchange statements, hardware wallets, password managers, and tax records reflecting digital transactions.

Modern estates require modern awareness. Overlooking digital assets can result in permanent loss.

If you suspect digital assets are involved, contact Collens Estate Law at (248) 265-3176 or visit CollensEstateLaw.com for experienced probate guidance.

04/30/2026

Collens Estate Law is proud to support FernCare’s 17th Annual Fundraising Dinner, “SPRING for FernCare!” FernCare is an organization that provides completely free healthcare to uninsured adults in our community.

FernCare Free Clinic, Inc. isn’t just filling a gap. It’s changing lives. From checkups and chronic illness care to medications, lab work, and insurance enrollment support, they serve individuals who would otherwise go without care entirely.

This is healthcare with dignity. Healthcare that meets people where they are, and it’s made possible by a community that chooses to show up.

American Polish Cultural Center
2975 E Maple Rd, Troy, MI
Tonight, April 30, 6:30PM

Even if you can’t attend, you can still make an impact.

Tickets and donations: givebutter.com/c/FernCare17

The auction is open to everyone, with pickup available after the event or in Ferndale the following week.

We’re honored to support a mission that ensures no one is left without care—and we hope you’ll consider being part of it.

04/30/2026

Estate planning doesn’t have to feel overwhelming or out of reach. The right information—delivered clearly—can make all the difference in helping you feel confident about your next steps.

Join us for a Planned Giving Seminar this Saturday, May 2, at 10:00 am at WDET Studios. WDET member Howard Collens will walk through the essentials in a straightforward, no-pressure setting—covering wills, estate planning basics, and meaningful ways to support charities through your estate.

Whether you’re just starting to think about a plan or revisiting an existing one, you’ll leave with practical insight you can actually use to better provide for your family and create a lasting legacy.

It’s never too late to plan for the future. Why not get advice from a professional?

To attend, RSVP by Friday, May 1, by emailing Peter Cohen at [email protected] or calling 313-577-4607.

04/29/2026

Joint accounts with rights of survivorship typically pass directly to the surviving account holder and do not go through probate. However, institutions still require a certified death certificate to update account ownership.

Understanding how accounts are titled is critical. Misinterpreting ownership structure can lead to confusion, disputes, or unnecessary probate filings.

If you are uncertain whether an account belongs to the estate, Collens Estate Law can review your situation and provide clarity. Call our office at (248) 265-3176 or visit CollensEstateLaw.com to schedule a consultation.