Resources

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Article
Lessons from the Hawthorn Case: Special Needs Settlement Planning for Minors
Learn how pooled special needs trusts and smart settlement planning protected benefits in the Hawthorn case and secured stability for minors with disabilities.
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Article
Understanding the d4A First Party Special Needs Trust
Learn about First Party Special Needs Trusts and how Michigan Law Center, led by expert Michele Fuller, can secure benefits and protect your loved one’s future.
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Article
Taxable Legal Settlements: How to Minimize Tax Impact on Your Settlement Awards
Understand which legal settlements are taxable and discover strategies like Qualified Settlement Funds to minimize tax impact, maximize recovery, and keep more of your award.
Woman gesturing in front of laptop computer from home office.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Article
How to Prepare For and Attend a Zoom Meeting or Hearing
Learn how to join a Zoom meeting seamlessly and prepare for virtual court hearings with ease. From logging in and testing equipment to dressing appropriately, make your Zoom experience professional an
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Article
Estate Planning to Ensure Smooth Probate Administration
Streamline probate by understanding estate planning, efficient asset distribution, and legal requirements. Ensure a smooth process with expert guidance and foresight.
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Article
Trust and Will: Simplifying Your Estate Planning
Understand the differences between wills and trusts to secure your assets, maintain privacy, and plan for your legacy. Estate planning ensures your wishes are fulfilled.
A mixed family of six surrounds a large meal on a picnic table. Five members raise their glasses to toast.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Article
The Ultimate Michigan Probate Checklist
Navigating the probate process in Michigan is complex. We walk you through the entire procedure with this comprehensive checklist including documents, costs, asset distribution, and debt payment.
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Article
Michigan Law Center Recognized as Best in Estate Planning
In their annual "Best of" issue, Grand Rapids Magazine voters selected Michigan Law Center as "Best Estate Planning" in the "Services" category.
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Article
Estate Planning for Blended Families: Challenges and Opportunities
Blended families risk disinheritance if estate planning is neglected. Pour-over trusts offer advantages.
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Webinar
Earning Without Losing: Working While on SSI
Can you work while on SSI? Yes, if you know the rules. Learn how income affects SSI benefits and more strategies to keep social security benefits while working.
Young special needs student in wheelchair with five other students of different ethnicities sitting at desks.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Crafting a Memo of Intent That Truly Speaks for Your Child
Learn to write a powerful Memorandum of Intent for your loved one with special needs. Special needs planning webinar series.
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Webinar
Windfalls & Benefits: What You Need to Know
Safeguard SSI, Medicaid upon settlement or inheritance. Learn strategies to preserve benefits and ensure financial security for individuals with disabilities.
A group of mixed ethnic people sitting in a circle in comfortable chairs holding a meeting, as they smile and chat with each other.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Q&A with SSI Attorney Erika Riggs
Don't miss experts Michele Fuller & Erika Riggs for a Q&A on special needs planning, disability benefits, SSI rules, and safeguarding your financial future.
Two students, one with special needs in a wheelchair, and one teacher smile while using computers.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Top Special Needs Planning Mistakes
Discover how special needs trusts protect benefits while providing fiduciary, caregiving, and asset management support. Learn to avoid common pitfalls and plan effectively for loved ones with disabilities.
A young happy man with Down syndrome with his mentoring friend celebrating success indoors at school.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Gifting to Persons with Disabilities Using an ABLE Account
Planning gifts for a loved one with disabilities requires careful consideration to avoid impacting their eligibility for government benefits. In this webinar, we will explore how ABLE accounts can be a powerful special needs planning tool for gifting to individuals with disabilities.
Talking, lawyer or old couple with will, contract or documents for life insurance papers or probate. Plan, advisor or married elderly clients signing paperwork, trust form or will agreement.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Special Needs Probate 101
Learn the fundamentals of probate in Michigan with a focus on individuals with disabilities. This session will cover key topics such as estate administration for special needs heirs, guardianships for individuals with developmental disabilities, conservatorships, and the vital role of special needs trusts.
Two young boys and their father and mother converse in a bright apartment. Father is in a wheelchair.A parent holding their smiling child in a swimming pool
Webinar
Preparing For and Managing Supplemental Security Income Benefits
Navigating Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits can be complex, but understanding the process is crucial for securing the financial well-being of a loved one with special needs.
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Webinar
Guardianship vs. Power of Attorney
Deciding between guardianship and power of attorney is an important decision that can significantly impact the care and protection of a loved one. In this webinar, we will guide you through the key differences between these two legal tools and explain when each is appropriate.

Upcoming Webinar

Planning with Pooled Trusts: A Guide for Families and Beneficiaries

2025-07-16 13:00