Marlaine C. Teahan Email & Phone Number

Estate planning is something we all know is important but it never feels urgent -- until it is. Sometimes, at that point, it's too late. Deep down, we all know we must take action to make a plan and, once we do, we’re glad for having done so. In my 35 years of practicing law, I’ve witnessed countless clients begin the process with confusion and trepidation, and emerge with clarity and peace of mind.WHY I DO ITNothing is more rewarding than helping clients determine the best way to manage their assets in life and during disability and to provide a tax-efficient transfer to loved ones at death, with minimal to no court involvement.HOW I DO ITThe work I do is called "estate planning" but that's just a fancy term for the process of setting goals for wealth management and transfer, and the creation of the documents necessary to accomplish those goals. I will work with you to:1. Determine your estate planning goals2. Explain the differences and benefits of a will-based plan vs. a trust-based plan and help you figure out the best option for you3. Provide patient advocate designations and durable powers of attorney to avoid a possible guardianship and conservatorshipWe'll consider together the pros and cons of your goals and, when appropriate, I'll offer suggestions and alternative ideas and what has worked for others. After death, I'll work with your loved ones toward a smooth and efficient transition of wealth, through probate and trust administration, and various post-death planning techniques.ABOUT ME ✓ Top 100 Super Lawyers and Top 50 Women Super Lawyers for Michigan and the Lawyer of the Year in Trusts and Estates for Lansing, Michigan by Best Lawyer✓ Chair of the Trusts & Estates Department at Fraser Trebilcock and am a past Chair of the Probate and Estate Planning Section of the State Bar of Michigan✓ Fellow of the American College of Trusts and Estates Counsel✓ Editor and contributor to the Institute of Continuing Legal Education's book, "Trust Administration Under the Michigan Trust Code"

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  Buffalo State University

  Law