More on “Vulnerable Adult” in Conservatorship Matters
By Doug Chalgian on September 11, 2026
In this case, a child petitions to have a conservator appointed over a parent, alleging that bullying and financial exploitation of the parent by another sibling warrants the...
“Sufficient” Evidence Required to Rebut Presumption
By Doug Chalgian on September 8, 2026
In an unpublished opinion, the Michigan Court of Appeals dodges the question of what burden of proof is required to rebut the presumption of undue influence, adopting...
High Drama Case Gives Pause about Pre-Appointment Legal Fees
By Doug Chalgian on August 14, 2026
Commonly (at least in my practice), family members advance money for legal services until they get appointed conservator, at which time they repay themselves out of the...
Two New Guardianship Laws
By Doug Chalgian on July 28, 2026
There are two new laws in the realm of guardianships and conservatorships. One new law would require an appraisal be conducted and shared with the Court anytime a...
Michipremes Shield Trust Property from Creditors
By Doug Chalgian on July 22, 2026
The issues in this newly released opinion from the Michigan Supreme Court are whether proceeds from either life insurance or retirement accounts (aka “qualified plans “) paid over...
Published Case Distinguishes Probate Proceedings and Civil Actions
By Doug Chalgian on July 16, 2026
A Trustee who was removed after beneficiaries initiated a civil action against her, appeals the resulting order on the basis that the matter was misplead. In this...
Heavy on My Mind
By Doug Chalgian on June 24, 2026
Renowned probate lawyer John Bos died yesterday. I knew him well. His Door was Always Open To my thinking, above all else, John was a teacher. His...
Digging up Bones
By Doug Chalgian on June 19, 2026
In a recent litigation team meeting, we were discussing how often the cases we’re getting these days are not about (or not only about) the validity of...
Disbelief Defeats Admission
By Doug Chalgian on June 15, 2026
Robert dies and his child informally opens intestate estate and becomes appointed Personal Representative. Later, Dunn petitions to admit a copy of a purported Will which nominates...
As It Should Be
By Doug Chalgian on May 15, 2026
This case turns on the standard of review: Abuse of Discretion. Two sides of a family squabble - each side made an offer to buy the family...
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