The Livingston County Probate Court handles cases relating to the administration of trusts and/or estates after someone passes away. This process of administering assets can be carried out regardless of whether or not the decedent had a will. Also, the court handles cases relating to the appointment of guardianships and conservatorships for minors and individuals with mental and developmental disabilities. In addition to this, the court handles cases regarding the involuntary commitment of persons with mental illness.
Since the issues covered by the court are often complex, it’s important to consult with a lawyer who’s experienced in Michigan probate laws and has familiarity with the Livingston County court system.
Opening a Livingston County Probate Case
Opening a probate case in Livingston County involves several steps. The process and fees involved depends on your particular case and the legal provisions associated with it. Below is additional information related to each process.
Estates – Estates are divided up into four different types of probate depending on the situation:
- Unsupervised – Informal Probate
- Supervised – Formal Probate
- Estate under $22,000
- Collection of Personal Property by Sworn Statement
Conservatorship of Minor – For when a minor holds money or property that requires management and/or protection that cannot be provided otherwise.
Conservatorship of Incapacated Adult – For when an incapacitated adult holds money or property that requires management and/or protection that cannot be provided otherwise.
Guardianships for the Developmentally Disabled – For the appointment of a guardian to make decisions for relating to the personal and physical well being of a developmentally disabled person.
Guardianships for the Legally Incapacitated – When the appointment of a guardian is required to make decisions related to the personal and physical welfare of a legally incapacitated person.
Guardianships for Minors – Divided into “Full” and “Limited” Guardianships. Full guardianships allow the guardian complete decision making power for matters relating to the welfare of the minor and can be petitioned by any interested person. Limited guardianships on the other hand must be petitioned by the parents of the minor and require the parents to voluntarily suspend their parental rights.
Involuntary Commitment of an Individual with Mental Illness – When an interested person would like to petition for an individual to be involuntarily committed for the treatment of a mental illness.
Completing Probate Forms
Once you have acquired all the necessary documentation for your request, the forms must be completed. It is strongly advised that you consult with an attorney specializing in probate law to ensure that the forms are properly completed.
- Complete forms in black or blue ink
- Double check to ensure all forms are completed entirely
- Are all the forms signed?
- Are all interested persons listed on the forms with their complete addresses?
- Is it possible to get a waiver and consent form signed by each interested person? If so, having this form my make it easier to start your case (except for guardianships)
- Drop forms off at probate court clerks desk
Livingston County Probate Court Location
The Probate Court is located in the Livingston County Judicial Center on the west side of Howell, off of Highlander Way and Grand River Ave. The address is listed below:
204 S Highlander Way, Suite 2
Howell, MI 48843
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