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Katie is a visionary in her own right, leading Headquarters Mental Wellness, a dynamic mental health collective designed to connect people with care that actually fits their lives. Together, they’ve created a home that’s faith-filled, high-energy, a little crazy, and full of love—the kind of household where the Wi-Fi is never fast enough, but the laughter is loud and constant.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":211,"children":212},{},[213],{"type":176,"value":214},"Mike also serves as the Director of Fitness for Rise Up Kings, where he helps faith-driven men become stronger leaders in their businesses and in their homes. 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She is a graduate of Western Michigan University, where she studied Business Administration. After her undergraduate studies, Anisha received an honors scholarship to attend the Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She was ranked in the top 5% of her class throughout her time in law school and served as an Editor on the school’s Law Review. Anisha graduated Magna Cum Laude and was awarded the Distinguished Student Award for her graduating class.","Anisha D. Rutkowski","Attorney","/img/team/anisha-rutkowski.webp","Head shot of Anisha Rutkowski",[165],{"type":20,"children":313,"toc":333},[314,318,323,328],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":315,"children":316},{},[317],{"type":176,"value":306},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":319,"children":320},{},[321],{"type":176,"value":322},"Anisha has served as a judicial intern for the Honorable Gerald E. Rosen in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan and the Honorable Michael Warren in the Oakland County Circuit Court. She spent five years working for the State of Michigan, first as a prehearing attorney for the Michigan Court of Appeals and then completing two judicial clerkships with the Michigan Supreme Court.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":324,"children":325},{},[326],{"type":176,"value":327},"Anisha has served as an adjunct professor at the Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School, where she instructed law students on advanced legal research and writing methods. She has also served as a mentor for aspiring lawyers through Cooley’s Mentor Jet program.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":329,"children":330},{},[331],{"type":176,"value":332},"Anisha was born and raised in Rochester, Michigan. After moving to northern Michigan for a few years early in her legal career, she and her husband returned to Rochester to work and raise their children. Outside of practicing law, Anisha is an avid reader, enjoys horseback riding and, most of all, weekend adventures with her family.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":334},[],"content:about-us:team:anisha-rutkowski.md","about-us/team/anisha-rutkowski.md","about-us/team/anisha-rutkowski",{"_path":339,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":340,"description":341,"name":340,"role":308,"imageUrl":342,"leadership":161,"order":343,"imageAlt":344,"practiceAreas":345,"body":346,"_type":26,"_id":364,"_source":28,"_file":365,"_stem":366,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/eric-ruth","Eric Ruth","Eric Ruth is an estate planning and probate attorney at Rutkowski Law Firm who brings a rare and valuable perspective to his practice. In addition to estate planning, Eric spent years as a probate litigator representing families in complex, high-conflict estate and trust disputes. He witnessed firsthand how poorly designed plans, unclear intentions, and lack of preparation can create lasting stress and division for loved ones. That experience now shapes the way he approaches every client matter: building thoughtful, durable plans designed to protect families when it matters most.","/img/team/eric-ruth.webp",3,"Head shot of Eric Ruth",[165],{"type":20,"children":347,"toc":362},[348,352,357],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":349,"children":350},{},[351],{"type":176,"value":341},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":353,"children":354},{},[355],{"type":176,"value":356},"Eric focuses on helping individuals and families create estate plans that provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind. He is known for combining a strategic, detail-oriented approach with a down-to-earth and approachable style that helps clients feel comfortable navigating difficult decisions.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":358,"children":359},{},[360],{"type":176,"value":361},"Eric earned his Juris Doctor from Western Michigan University Thomas M. Cooley Law School and his bachelor's from Old Dominion University in Virginia, where he also served in the U.S. Navy for five years. Outside the office, Eric enjoys spending time with his wife and young son. He is passionate about family, coaching, writing, and staying active — especially outdoors with his family whenever he can.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":363},[],"content:about-us:team:eric-ruth.md","about-us/team/eric-ruth.md","about-us/team/eric-ruth",{"_path":368,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":369,"description":370,"name":369,"role":371,"imageUrl":372,"leadership":161,"order":373,"imageAlt":374,"practiceAreas":375,"body":376,"_type":26,"_id":399,"_source":28,"_file":400,"_stem":401,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/gail-gonos","Gail Gonos","Gail is a dedicated paralegal with over 25 years of experience with a strong focus on estate planning, trust administration, corporate, probate and client support. She works closely with attorneys and clients to ensure that every document is prepared accurately and timely.","Paralegal","/img/team/gail-gonos.webp",4,"Head shot of Gail Gonos",[165],{"type":20,"children":377,"toc":397},[378,382,387,392],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":379,"children":380},{},[381],{"type":176,"value":370},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":383,"children":384},{},[385],{"type":176,"value":386},"With a detail-oriented mindset and a calm, compassionate approach, Gail helps guide clients through what can often feel like complex or emotional decisions. She plays a key role in drafting documents, managing case files, and ensuring that each plan aligns with the client’s goals and the firm’s high standards. ",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":388,"children":389},{},[390],{"type":176,"value":391},"Gail is known for her reliability, professionalism, and commitment to making sure clients feel supported every step of the way. She takes pride in contributing to plans that provide clarity, protection, and peace of mind for individuals and families. ",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":393,"children":394},{},[395],{"type":176,"value":396},"When Gail is not working, she enjoys walks on the beach, hiking, and kayaking, but is best known for her passion for football.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":398},[],"content:about-us:team:gail-gonos.md","about-us/team/gail-gonos.md","about-us/team/gail-gonos",{"_path":403,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":404,"description":405,"name":406,"role":407,"imageUrl":408,"leadership":7,"order":409,"imageAlt":410,"practiceAreas":411,"body":412,"_type":26,"_id":439,"_source":28,"_file":440,"_stem":441,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/yisraela-yehudah","Yisraela Yehudah","Yizzy Yehudah, CMP, began her Medicaid career in 2010 as a Caseworker for the State of Indiana, later advancing to State Eligibility Coach, where she supervised caseworkers and represented the State in administrative hearings and appeals.","Yisraela \"Yizzy\" Yehudah, CMP","Certified Medicaid Planner & Paralegal","/img/team/yisraela-yehudah.webp",5,"Head shot of Yisraela \"Yizzy\" Yehudah",[166],{"type":20,"children":413,"toc":437},[414,427,432],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":415,"children":416},{},[417,419,425],{"type":176,"value":418},"Yizzy Yehudah, CMP, began her ",{"type":171,"tag":179,"props":420,"children":422},{"href":421},"/medicaid-planning/",[423],{"type":176,"value":424},"Medicaid",{"type":176,"value":426}," career in 2010 as a Caseworker for the State of Indiana, later advancing to State Eligibility Coach, where she supervised caseworkers and represented the State in administrative hearings and appeals.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":428,"children":429},{},[430],{"type":176,"value":431},"Since 2013, Yizzy has worked in Estate Planning as a Legal Assistant and Medicaid Consultant. As a Certified Medicaid Planner with a strong foundation in federal and multi-state Medicaid policy, she assists clients across the country in securing long-term care benefits and represents them in administrative hearings and appeals.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":433,"children":434},{},[435],{"type":176,"value":436},"Outside of work, Yizzy enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and being outdoors.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":438},[],"content:about-us:team:yisraela-yehudah.md","about-us/team/yisraela-yehudah.md","about-us/team/yisraela-yehudah",{"_path":443,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":444,"description":445,"name":444,"role":446,"imageUrl":447,"leadership":7,"order":448,"imageAlt":449,"practiceAreas":450,"body":451,"_type":26,"_id":469,"_source":28,"_file":470,"_stem":471,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/michelle-wheeler","Michelle Wheeler","Michelle is a Probate Paralegal at Rutkowski Law Firm who is dedicated to providing compassionate, organized, and attentive service to clients throughout the probate process. She assists clients with probate, trust administration, guardianship, conservatorship, and estate administration matters, understanding that navigating the legal system can often feel overwhelming. She provides responsive support to help clients through each step of the process.","Probate Paralegal","/img/team/michelle-wheeler.webp",6,"Head shot of Michelle Wheeler",[167],{"type":20,"children":452,"toc":467},[453,457,462],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":454,"children":455},{},[456],{"type":176,"value":445},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":458,"children":459},{},[460],{"type":176,"value":461},"Michelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education from Wayne State University before pursuing her Post-Bachelor Paralegal Certificate at Oakland Community College. She has experience assisting clients with probate, guardianship, conservatorship, and estate administration matters and believes that clear communication, meaningful relationships, and attention to detail are essential to helping families navigate the probate process.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":463,"children":464},{},[465],{"type":176,"value":466},"Outside of the office, Michelle enjoys spending time with her children and granddaughters, traveling, and researching genealogy. She enjoys connecting with others and creating lasting memories.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":468},[],"content:about-us:team:michelle-wheeler.md","about-us/team/michelle-wheeler.md","about-us/team/michelle-wheeler",{"_path":473,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":474,"description":475,"name":474,"role":476,"imageUrl":477,"order":478,"imageAlt":479,"body":480,"_type":26,"_id":508,"_source":28,"_file":509,"_stem":510,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/brian-henderson","Brian Henderson","Brian Henderson brings over two decades of leadership experience in operations, administration, and organizational development to his role as Director of Operations at the Rutkowski Law Firm. With a strong foundation in court administration and a proven record of driving cultural transformation, Brian is known for his ability to align people, processes, and performance with strategic goals.","Director of Operations","/img/team/brian-henderson.webp",7,"Head shot of Brian Henderson",{"type":20,"children":481,"toc":506},[482,486,491,496,501],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":483,"children":484},{},[485],{"type":176,"value":475},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":487,"children":488},{},[489],{"type":176,"value":490},"Prior to joining the firm, Brian served as a Court Administrator in Michigan, where he effectively led teams of up to 65 staff, managed complex inter-agency projects, and played a pivotal role in policy development, HR oversight, and stakeholder engagement. His efforts consistently resulted in improved operational efficiency, employee satisfaction, and service delivery.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":492,"children":493},{},[494],{"type":176,"value":495},"Brian holds a Bachelor of Science in Business from Ferris State University and is a Certified Court Manager (CCM). His diverse background also includes experience in financial services, insurance restoration, and public sector assistance programs.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":497,"children":498},{},[499],{"type":176,"value":500},"At the Rutkowski Law Firm, Brian oversees the firm's day-to-day operations, staff development, and strategic initiatives—ensuring operational excellence and a high-performing workplace culture that supports both clients and team members.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":502,"children":503},{},[504],{"type":176,"value":505},"Outside of work, Brian enjoyed playing both baseball and football through college. He values every opportunity to spend time with family and friends at the lake. Brian finds great joy in being a girl dad and attending live music events with his wife. Brian's hobbies include home remodeling, golf and exercising.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":507},[],"content:about-us:team:brian-henderson.md","about-us/team/brian-henderson.md","about-us/team/brian-henderson",{"_path":512,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":513,"description":514,"name":513,"role":515,"imageUrl":516,"leadership":7,"order":517,"imageAlt":518,"body":519,"_type":26,"_id":542,"_source":28,"_file":543,"_stem":544,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/chris-pletkovic","Chris Pletkovic","Chris Pletkovic is Rutkowski Law Firm’s Director of Client Services. Chris meets with all our client families and works to help them understand and achieve their asset protection and estate planning goals. He believes that the most important part of our process is the communication and education with his clients surrounding how their plan with us will work for them. Chris’ passion for communicating with clients makes him a valuable part of our team and an amazing resource for our client families.","VP of Client Services","/img/team/chris-pletkovic.webp",8,"Head shot of Chris Pletkovic",{"type":20,"children":520,"toc":540},[521,525,530,535],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":522,"children":523},{},[524],{"type":176,"value":514},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":526,"children":527},{},[528],{"type":176,"value":529},"Chris joined the firm in 2022 and brings with him more than fifteen years of experience in client services and relationship management. More than anything he is a people person who genuinely enjoys interacting with and understanding the needs of the clients he works with.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":531,"children":532},{},[533],{"type":176,"value":534},"Chris earned his bachelor’s degree in Advertising & Marketing from Michigan State University before moving on to complete his master’s degree in the Science of Organizational Leadership from Colorado State University. A Rochester Hills native, he hails from the same neck of the woods as Mike & Wally Rutkowski and has known them both for many years.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":536,"children":537},{},[538],{"type":176,"value":539},"Chris shares three daughters with his wife Crystal and they round to a family of eight when you add their two Labradors, Henry & Lincoln along with their pug, Molly. He spends most of his free time with his family who enjoy hunting, skiing, and hiking together. Chris is an avid exerciser who also enjoys cycling and pretty much anything that gets him outdoors.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":541},[],"content:about-us:team:chris-pletkovic.md","about-us/team/chris-pletkovic.md","about-us/team/chris-pletkovic",{"_path":546,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":547,"description":548,"name":547,"role":549,"imageUrl":550,"leadership":7,"order":551,"imageAlt":552,"body":553,"_type":26,"_id":586,"_source":28,"_file":587,"_stem":588,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/josh-heppner","Josh Heppner","Josh's career has been built on a passion for leadership, service, and helping others succeed. He earned a Bachelor of Science in English Education from Ferris State University and later completed a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Saginaw Valley State University. Those experiences laid the foundation for a career dedicated to developing people, building meaningful relationships, and serving others with integrity.","Director of Client Services","/img/team/josh-heppner.webp",8.5,"Head shot of Josh Heppner",{"type":20,"children":554,"toc":584},[555,559,564,569,574,579],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":556,"children":557},{},[558],{"type":176,"value":548},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":560,"children":561},{},[562],{"type":176,"value":563},"For 16 years, Josh served as a high school educator and Head Varsity Football Coach, where he had the privilege of mentoring students and student-athletes both in the classroom and on the field. Throughout his career in education, he was committed to fostering academic excellence while teaching the values of discipline, accountability, resilience, teamwork, and character. Coaching and teaching allowed Josh to positively impact the lives of young people while helping prepare them for success beyond graduation.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":565,"children":566},{},[567],{"type":176,"value":568},"In 2016, Josh transitioned from education into the business world where he could apply the leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills he had developed throughout his years as an educator and coach. Since then, Josh has held successful director positions with Zoetis and Rawlings Sporting Goods, where he partnered with customers, developed trusted relationships, and delivered solutions that create lasting value.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":570,"children":571},{},[572],{"type":176,"value":573},"Josh is excited to begin the next chapter of his professional journey as the Director of Client Services for Rutkowski Law Firm. In this role, he will have the opportunity to build meaningful relationships with individuals and families by meeting with clients face-to-face through educational seminars and one-on-one consultations. Josh is passionate about helping people navigate important life decisions with confidence while connecting them to the trusted legal guidance and personalized service they deserve.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":575,"children":576},{},[577],{"type":176,"value":578},"Throughout every stage of his career, Josh has believed that success is built on trust, integrity, hard work, and genuine conversations. Whether mentoring students, coaching athletes, partnering with customers, or serving families in his current role, Josh will strive to lead with authenticity, professionalism, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of others.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":580,"children":581},{},[582],{"type":176,"value":583},"Above all else, Josh's greatest joy comes from spending time with his family. Whether they are fishing, golfing, catching a movie, attending a sporting event, or simply enjoying quality time at home, those moments are what matter most to Josh. His family has always been the foundation of his life, and they continue to inspire the way he leads, serves, and approaches every opportunity—both personally and professionally.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":585},[],"content:about-us:team:josh-heppner.md","about-us/team/josh-heppner.md","about-us/team/josh-heppner",{"_path":590,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":591,"description":592,"name":591,"role":593,"imageUrl":594,"order":595,"imageAlt":596,"body":597,"_type":26,"_id":620,"_source":28,"_file":621,"_stem":622,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/kris-kerchen","Kris Kerchen","As the Workflow Manager for The Rutkowski Law Firm, Kris Kerchen plays a critical role in helping families across Michigan navigate estate planning, Medicaid planning, and probate.","Workflow Manager","/img/team/kris-kerchen.webp",9,"Head shot of Kris Kerchen",{"type":20,"children":598,"toc":618},[599,603,608,613],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":600,"children":601},{},[602],{"type":176,"value":592},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":604,"children":605},{},[606],{"type":176,"value":607},"With over 20 years of experience in customer service and client support, Kris brings calm, care, and professionalism to every interaction. She’s known for her proactive communication, eye for detail, and genuine commitment to helping people—traits that make her a valued part of Team Rutkowski.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":609,"children":610},{},[611],{"type":176,"value":612},"Kris attended Oakland Community College and has a heart for service. She volunteers regularly with food pantries, homeless shelters, churches, animal shelters, and The Detroit Zoo.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":614,"children":615},{},[616],{"type":176,"value":617},"Originally from Dearborn Heights, Kris lived in Metamora for 25 years until her recent move to Yale, MI. She has four children, and a beautiful Granddaughter. When she’s not working or volunteering, you’ll likely find Kris spending time with her family, reading a good book, traveling, and spending time outdoors.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":619},[],"content:about-us:team:kris-kerchen.md","about-us/team/kris-kerchen.md","about-us/team/kris-kerchen",{"_path":624,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":625,"description":626,"name":625,"role":627,"imageUrl":628,"leadership":7,"order":629,"imageAlt":630,"body":631,"_type":26,"_id":649,"_source":28,"_file":650,"_stem":651,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/andrea-hawkins","Andrea Hawkins","Andrea is a Client Services Coordinator with Rutkowski Law Firm. She works as a liaison between our clients, our team, and our process. She manages the phones, schedules educational presentations and client meetings, and assists anyone on our team as needed. Andrea is passionate about helping people and implementing our Core Values into everything that we do for our client families.","Client Services Coordinator","/img/team/andrea-hawkins.webp",10,"Head shot of Andrea Hawkins",{"type":20,"children":632,"toc":647},[633,637,642],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":634,"children":635},{},[636],{"type":176,"value":626},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":638,"children":639},{},[640],{"type":176,"value":641},"Andrea brings more than 21 years of experience in the customer service industry. Joining us from a local favorite, Kruse & Muer, she has a deep understanding of client services and how important it is that the process moves smoothly throughout the client or customer’s journey with the firm. Andrea loves working with people and helping families which makes her an amazing addition to our team.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":643,"children":644},{},[645],{"type":176,"value":646},"Andrea graduated from Oakland University with a bachelor’s in science focusing on Health & Exercise Science. She is originally from Rochester, Michigan but has since traveled slightly east to settle in the Macomb area. Andrea shares two children with her husband, Zach, and three if you count their Shitzu, Miggy! She and her family love relaxing at their cabin up north, crafting, being outdoors and planning new adventures in their camper!",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":648},[],"content:about-us:team:andrea-hawkins.md","about-us/team/andrea-hawkins.md","about-us/team/andrea-hawkins",{"_path":653,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":654,"description":655,"name":654,"role":656,"imageUrl":657,"leadership":7,"order":658,"imageAlt":659,"body":660,"_type":26,"_id":678,"_source":28,"_file":679,"_stem":680,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/jason-matthews","Jason Matthews","Jason is a Client Engagement Specialist with Rutkowski Law Firm. As the first point of contact for prospective clients, Jason helps create a welcoming and informative experience from the very beginning. He is responsible for learning about each client's needs and connecting them with a member of the firm's Client Services team. Jason understands that the first conversation can set the tone for the entire client experience. He is committed to ensuring every client feels heard, valued, and confident as they take the first step in the estate planning process.","Client Engagement Specialist","/img/team/jason-matthews.webp",10.5,"Head shot of Jason Matthews",{"type":20,"children":661,"toc":676},[662,666,671],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":663,"children":664},{},[665],{"type":176,"value":655},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":667,"children":668},{},[669],{"type":176,"value":670},"With a strong background in communication and client service, Jason believes that building trust begins with listening. His approachable personality, attention to detail, and dedication to helping others make him an important part of the Rutkowski Law Firm and a trusted resource for the families who work with us.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":672,"children":673},{},[674],{"type":176,"value":675},"A Birmingham, Michigan native, Jason earned his bachelor's degree in English with a minor in Communications from Albion College. Outside of the office, he enjoys coaching soccer, playing soccer, skiing, writing, and exploring his passion for art. Whether he's mentoring young athletes or assisting clients, Jason enjoys building meaningful relationships and making a positive impact in the lives of others.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":677},[],"content:about-us:team:jason-matthews.md","about-us/team/jason-matthews.md","about-us/team/jason-matthews",{"_path":682,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":683,"description":684,"name":683,"role":685,"imageUrl":686,"leadership":7,"order":687,"imageAlt":688,"practiceAreas":689,"body":690,"_type":26,"_id":708,"_source":28,"_file":709,"_stem":710,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/lea-caruso","Lea Caruso","Lea is an incredible resource for our firm’s team internally as well as for the families and communities we serve. Lea’s role is to act as a liaison between Rutkowski Law Firm’s internal processes and our community efforts and partners. Her close relationships in the senior services and care facility communities in Michigan help us break down barriers to better serve our client families and their loved ones. Lea was a Recreational Therapist in various senior living communities for the past 5 years. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy degree from Grand Valley State University, and she is a Certified Dementia Practitioner as well. Lea worked her way up in the senior living industry and spent two years as a Director of Sales & Marketing assisting families with moving their loved one into a senior living community.","Community Liaison","/img/team/lea-caruso.webp",11,"Head shot of Lea Caruso",[166],{"type":20,"children":691,"toc":706},[692,696,701],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":693,"children":694},{},[695],{"type":176,"value":684},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":697,"children":698},{},[699],{"type":176,"value":700},"Estate planning involves making critical decisions about the future, which can often be emotionally taxing. Lea’s role is to provide a supportive and compassionate environment where clients can relax, destress, and focus on their own well-being while addressing their legal concerns.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":702,"children":703},{},[704],{"type":176,"value":705},"Lea grew up in Rochester and now calls it home with her husband & dog, Stella. She enjoys spending her free time baking, reading books, playing pickle ball & going to Pilates. Lea comes from a big Greek family whom she loves spending time with, especially at their cottage in Charlevoix, MI.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":707},[],"content:about-us:team:lea-caruso.md","about-us/team/lea-caruso.md","about-us/team/lea-caruso",{"_path":712,"_dir":155,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":713,"description":714,"name":715,"role":716,"imageUrl":717,"leadership":7,"order":718,"imageAlt":719,"body":720,"_type":26,"_id":748,"_source":28,"_file":749,"_stem":750,"_extension":31},"/about-us/team/denise-kabalka-chesney","Denise Kabalka Chesney","Denise Kabalka-Chesney is the dedicated Executive Assistant to the CEO of Rutkowski Law Firm, Michael Rutkowski. She's known for bringing structure, discipline, and a global perspective to everything she does. She thrives on keeping both professional and personal worlds running seamlessly, allowing the people she supports to stay focused and successful.","Denise Kabalka-Chesney","Executive Assistant to the CEO","/img/team/denise-kabalka-chesney.webp",12,"Head shot of Denise Kabalka-Chesney",{"type":20,"children":721,"toc":746},[722,726,731,736,741],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":723,"children":724},{},[725],{"type":176,"value":714},{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":727,"children":728},{},[729],{"type":176,"value":730},"She earned her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, majoring in International Business, from Central Michigan University. Her life experiences include traveling throughout Europe, climbing Mount Olympus in Greece, hiking for a month in Thailand with her daughter, and visiting Japan and South Korea.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":732,"children":733},{},[734],{"type":176,"value":735},"Denise brings a strong foundation of discipline, with 10 years in martial arts and a 35-year career as a certified personal trainer through the American Council on Exercise. She is also a four-time qualifier of the Boston Marathon.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":737,"children":738},{},[739],{"type":176,"value":740},"She was named Macomb County Volunteer of the Year for her work with MCREST, Meals on Wheels, The Parade Company, and mentoring with A Beautiful Me. She also spent 11 years teaching religious education.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":742,"children":743},{},[744],{"type":176,"value":745},"At the center of her life are her two children, Adam and Alexis, who are her greatest pride and purpose.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":747},[],"content:about-us:team:denise-kabalka-chesney.md","about-us/team/denise-kabalka-chesney.md","about-us/team/denise-kabalka-chesney",[752,1137,1343],{"_path":753,"_dir":754,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":755,"description":756,"date":757,"imageUrl":758,"imageAlt":759,"author":158,"practiceArea":760,"body":761,"_type":26,"_id":1134,"_source":28,"_file":1135,"_stem":1136,"_extension":31},"/blog/what-happens-when-you-have-the-wrong-power-of-attorney-or-none-at-all","blog","What Happens When You Have the Wrong Power of Attorney—or None at All?","Discover the costly probate delays that happen when emergency medical and financial paperwork is missing or legally deficient.","2026-08-04T16:30:00.000Z","https://media.rutkowskilawfirm.com/72bf9237-0d5c-487a-8ed5-4e02c74c5943-rlf-wrong-poa.webp","Family having fun during summers","power-of-attorney",{"type":20,"children":762,"toc":1126},[763,769,774,779,784,789,795,800,813,818,824,844,849,892,898,903,954,960,972,977,1020,1026,1044,1077,1089,1121],{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":764,"children":766},{"id":765},"the-dangerous-myth-of-automatic-family-authority",[767],{"type":176,"value":768},"The Dangerous Myth of Automatic Family Authority",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":770,"children":771},{},[772],{"type":176,"value":773},"When families meet with our legal team in Rochester, Bloomfield Hills, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, or Marquette, one of the most common assumptions we hear is that family members can automatically step in during a health crisis. Spouses and adult children often believe that marriage or blood relation gives them immediate authority to manage bank accounts, pay bills, or speak with doctors if a loved one becomes incapacitated.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":775,"children":776},{},[777],{"type":176,"value":778},"Under Michigan law, that assumption is completely false.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":780,"children":781},{},[782],{"type":176,"value":783},"If you experience a sudden medical emergency, stroke, or cognitive decline without active legal documentation, no one—not even a spouse of 30 years—has automatic authority to sign your name, access your individual bank accounts, or manage your healthcare decisions.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":785,"children":786},{},[787],{"type":176,"value":788},"Without a valid power of attorney that Michigan financial institutions and medical providers recognize, your family can face immediate administrative paralysis at the very moment they need clarity most.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":790,"children":792},{"id":791},"what-happens-when-you-become-incapacitated-without-a-power-of-attorney",[793],{"type":176,"value":794},"What Happens When You Become Incapacitated Without a Power of Attorney?",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":796,"children":797},{},[798],{"type":176,"value":799},"When incapacitation occurs without proper planning, financial institutions may freeze individual bank accounts, retirement funds, and property transactions. Even routine bills, mortgage payments, and medical expenses can be delayed without legal authorization.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":801,"children":802},{},[803,805,811],{"type":176,"value":804},"In healthcare settings, doctors and hospitals must follow strict privacy laws. Without an executed ",{"type":171,"tag":179,"props":806,"children":808},{"href":807},"/practice-areas/estate-planning/power-of-attorney/healthcare-power-of-attorney/",[809],{"type":176,"value":810},"medical power of attorney",{"type":176,"value":812}," that Michigan providers recognize, family members may be excluded from critical care decisions or face delays while medical teams determine who has legal authority.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":814,"children":815},{},[816],{"type":176,"value":817},"When no active document exists, your family is left with only one legal option under Michigan law: petitioning the local probate court for a public conservatorship or guardianship.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":819,"children":821},{"id":820},"the-high-cost-of-probate-court-conservatorship-and-guardianship",[822],{"type":176,"value":823},"The High Cost of Probate Court Conservatorship and Guardianship",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":825,"children":826},{},[827,829,835,837,842],{"type":176,"value":828},"Filing for a court-appointed ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":831,"children":832},"strong",{},[833],{"type":176,"value":834},"conservatorship",{"type":176,"value":836}," (for financial management) or ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":838,"children":839},{},[840],{"type":176,"value":841},"guardianship",{"type":176,"value":843}," (for medical care) in Oakland, Wayne, or Washtenaw counties turns a private family crisis into a public court proceeding.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":845,"children":846},{},[847],{"type":176,"value":848},"This legal process creates significant burdens for your loved ones:",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":850,"children":851},{},[852,862,872,882],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":853,"children":854},{},[855,860],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":856,"children":857},{},[858],{"type":176,"value":859},"Expensive Legal Fees:",{"type":176,"value":861}," Your family must hire attorneys, pay court filing costs, and cover fees for court-appointed investigators, quickly spending thousands of dollars.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":863,"children":864},{},[865,870],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":866,"children":867},{},[868],{"type":176,"value":869},"Lengthy Public Delays:",{"type":176,"value":871}," Court dockets move slowly, often taking months to schedule hearings while your financial affairs remain completely frozen.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":873,"children":874},{},[875,880],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":876,"children":877},{},[878],{"type":176,"value":879},"Loss of Family Privacy:",{"type":176,"value":881}," Your personal finances, medical records, and family dynamics become part of the public court record.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":883,"children":884},{},[885,890],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":886,"children":887},{},[888],{"type":176,"value":889},"Ongoing Judicial Oversight:",{"type":176,"value":891}," A judge decides who manages your life and money. Your appointed conservator must file annual financial accounting reports with the court every year, requiring continuous judicial approval for basic financial decisions.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":893,"children":895},{"id":894},"common-power-of-attorney-mistakes-that-expose-your-family",[896],{"type":176,"value":897},"Common Power of Attorney Mistakes That Expose Your Family",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":899,"children":900},{},[901],{"type":176,"value":902},"Even families who believe they prepared ahead of time often rely on flawed documents that fail when tested during an emergency.",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":904,"children":905},{},[906,916,926,944],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":907,"children":908},{},[909,914],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":910,"children":911},{},[912],{"type":176,"value":913},"Relying on Generic Online Templates:",{"type":176,"value":915}," Downloaded DIY forms often lack state-specific statutory language required by financial institutions or hospitals under updated Michigan law.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":917,"children":918},{},[919,924],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":920,"children":921},{},[922],{"type":176,"value":923},"Using Outdated Documents:",{"type":176,"value":925}," Older documents drafted years ago may not comply with the recent Michigan Uniform Power of Attorney Act (UPOAA). Banks frequently reject outdated authorizations that lack explicit statutory protections.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":927,"children":928},{},[929,934,936,942],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":930,"children":931},{},[932],{"type":176,"value":933},"Confusing Non-Durable and Durable Authority:",{"type":176,"value":935}," A basic non-durable financial document automatically terminates the moment you become incapacitated. Only a properly executed ",{"type":171,"tag":179,"props":937,"children":939},{"href":938},"/practice-areas/estate-planning/power-of-attorney/durable-power-of-attorney/",[940],{"type":176,"value":941},"durable power of attorney",{"type":176,"value":943}," Michigan law approves remains active during a medical emergency.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":945,"children":946},{},[947,952],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":948,"children":949},{},[950],{"type":176,"value":951},"Naming the Wrong Agent:",{"type":176,"value":953}," Naming a relative simply out of obligation—rather than choosing someone with the organizational skills and emotional readiness to handle financial or medical stress—can lead to severe family conflict.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":955,"children":957},{"id":956},"why-you-must-review-documents-after-major-life-events",[958],{"type":176,"value":959},"Why You Must Review Documents After Major Life Events",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":961,"children":962},{},[963,965,970],{"type":176,"value":964},"A ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":966,"children":967},{},[968],{"type":176,"value":969},"power of attorney Michigan",{"type":176,"value":971}," plan is not a static set of papers that you set and forget. Life changes quickly, and your estate planning documents must adapt to reflect your current family circumstances.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":973,"children":974},{},[975],{"type":176,"value":976},"You should review your legal authorizations immediately after any major milestone:",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":978,"children":979},{},[980,990,1000,1010],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":981,"children":982},{},[983,988],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":984,"children":985},{},[986],{"type":176,"value":987},"Marriage or Remarriage:",{"type":176,"value":989}," Ensuring your spouse has proper legal authority while protecting provisions for children from previous relationships.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":991,"children":992},{},[993,998],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":994,"children":995},{},[996],{"type":176,"value":997},"Divorce:",{"type":176,"value":999}," Removing an ex-spouse from financial and medical decision-making roles.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1001,"children":1002},{},[1003,1008],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1004,"children":1005},{},[1006],{"type":176,"value":1007},"Retirement:",{"type":176,"value":1009}," Aligning financial authorization with updated investment portfolios, pension distributions, and long-term care goals.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1011,"children":1012},{},[1013,1018],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1014,"children":1015},{},[1016],{"type":176,"value":1017},"Changes in Your Named Agent's Life:",{"type":176,"value":1019}," Updating primary or alternate agents if a chosen loved one moves away, suffers health challenges, or passes away.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1021,"children":1023},{"id":1022},"coordinating-powers-of-attorney-into-an-active-asset-shield",[1024],{"type":176,"value":1025},"Coordinating Powers of Attorney into an Active Asset Shield",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1027,"children":1028},{},[1029,1030,1035,1037,1042],{"type":176,"value":964},{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1031,"children":1032},{},[1033],{"type":176,"value":1034},"durable power of attorney Michigan",{"type":176,"value":1036}," families rely on, and a ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1038,"children":1039},{},[1040],{"type":176,"value":1041},"medical power of attorney Michigan",{"type":176,"value":1043}," healthcare teams accept, are essential tools, but they represent only part of a complete strategy.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1045,"children":1046},{},[1047,1049,1054,1056,1061,1063,1068,1070,1075],{"type":176,"value":1048},"To protect your lifetime of hard work from probate court delays and long-term care costs—which average over ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1050,"children":1051},{},[1052],{"type":176,"value":1053},"$12,216 per month",{"type":176,"value":1055}," in Michigan nursing facilities—your powers of attorney must work in total harmony with a ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1057,"children":1058},{},[1059],{"type":176,"value":1060},"Will",{"type":176,"value":1062},", a ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1064,"children":1065},{},[1066],{"type":176,"value":1067},"Trust",{"type":176,"value":1069},", and a fully executed ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1071,"children":1072},{},[1073],{"type":176,"value":1074},"Trust Funding",{"type":176,"value":1076}," strategy.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1078,"children":1079},{},[1080,1082,1087],{"type":176,"value":1081},"Many ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1083,"children":1084},{},[1085],{"type":176,"value":1086},"$3,000 document mills",{"type":176,"value":1088}," hand clients a binder of uncoordinated papers and force them to handle bank asset transfers on their own. Unfunded trusts fail, forcing families right back into probate court.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1090,"children":1091},{},[1092,1094,1099,1101,1106,1108,1112,1114,1119],{"type":176,"value":1093},"At Rutkowski Law Firm, our ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1095,"children":1096},{},[1097],{"type":176,"value":1098},"Proven Process",{"type":176,"value":1100}," delivers a white-glove, ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1102,"children":1103},{},[1104],{"type":176,"value":1105},"Done-For-You",{"type":176,"value":1107}," service backed by more than 50 years of combined legal experience. We handle the heavy lifting of coordinating your documents and completing your ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1109,"children":1110},{},[1111],{"type":176,"value":1074},{"type":176,"value":1113},", creating an active ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1115,"children":1116},{},[1117],{"type":176,"value":1118},"Asset Shield",{"type":176,"value":1120}," that keeps your decisions private and protects your family when it matters most.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1122,"children":1123},{},[1124],{"type":176,"value":1125},"Our legal team in Rochester, Bloomfield Hills, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, and Marquette is ready to review your existing paperwork and eliminate dangerous gaps before a crisis hits.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":1127},[1128,1129,1130,1131,1132,1133],{"id":765,"depth":24,"text":768},{"id":791,"depth":24,"text":794},{"id":820,"depth":24,"text":823},{"id":894,"depth":24,"text":897},{"id":956,"depth":24,"text":959},{"id":1022,"depth":24,"text":1025},"content:blog:what-happens-when-you-have-the-wrong-power-of-attorney-or-none-at-all.md","blog/what-happens-when-you-have-the-wrong-power-of-attorney-or-none-at-all.md","blog/what-happens-when-you-have-the-wrong-power-of-attorney-or-none-at-all",{"_path":1138,"_dir":754,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":1139,"description":1140,"date":1141,"imageUrl":1142,"author":158,"imageAlt":1143,"practiceArea":760,"body":1144,"_type":26,"_id":1340,"_source":28,"_file":1341,"_stem":1342,"_extension":31},"/blog/the-4-types-of-power-of-attorney-in-michigan-what-every-family-must-know","The 4 Types of Power of Attorney in Michigan - What Every Family Must Know","Dying without a plan means default state formulas dictate who gets your home and savings. Here is how to keep control in your hands.","2026-08-04T16:20:00.000Z","https://media.rutkowskilawfirm.com/821f998e-3d8d-4921-abfd-443c76d74f7e-rlf-four-types-of-poa.webp","mother and daughter",{"type":20,"children":1145,"toc":1332},[1146,1152,1157,1162,1167,1172,1178,1183,1232,1238,1243,1248,1254,1259,1271,1283,1289,1301,1306,1311,1317,1322,1327],{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1147,"children":1149},{"id":1148},"understanding-power-of-attorney-michigan-families-depend-on",[1150],{"type":176,"value":1151},"Understanding Power of Attorney Michigan Families Depend On",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1153,"children":1154},{},[1155],{"type":176,"value":1156},"When families meet with our team in Rochester, Bloomfield Hills, Sterling Heights, Ann Arbor, or Marquette, many assume a basic estate plan automatically gives their loved ones authority during a medical emergency. They often believe one document gives a spouse or child immediate access to manage accounts or make care decisions.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1158,"children":1159},{},[1160],{"type":176,"value":1161},"Under Michigan law, true protection requires a coordinated legal strategy. A complete Asset Shield depends on a Will, a Trust, Powers of Attorney, and a Patient Advocate Designation working together seamlessly.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1163,"children":1164},{},[1165],{"type":176,"value":1166},"A power of attorney is a vital legal document that gives a trusted person the authority to make decisions on your behalf if you cannot speak or act for yourself. But no single document covers every situation. Michigan law recognizes four types of power of attorney, each designed for specific financial, personal, or healthcare needs.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1168,"children":1169},{},[1170],{"type":176,"value":1171},"Understanding how these documents work helps ensure your wishes are respected and protects your family from administrative roadblocks during a crisis.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1173,"children":1175},{"id":1174},"the-4-types-of-power-of-attorney-in-michigan",[1176],{"type":176,"value":1177},"The 4 Types of Power of Attorney in Michigan",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1179,"children":1180},{},[1181],{"type":176,"value":1182},"Selecting the right legal instrument depends entirely on when you want authority to begin, what powers you want to grant, and when that authority should end.",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":1184,"children":1185},{},[1186,1202,1212,1222],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1187,"children":1188},{},[1189,1194,1196,1200],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1190,"children":1191},{},[1192],{"type":176,"value":1193},"Durable Financial Power of Attorney:",{"type":176,"value":1195}," A ",{"type":171,"tag":179,"props":1197,"children":1198},{"href":938},[1199],{"type":176,"value":1034},{"type":176,"value":1201}," residents rely on takes effect immediately upon signing or upon certified incapacity, remaining active throughout your entire lifetime. This document authorizes your designated agent to pay bills, access bank accounts, manage property, and protect assets without needing permission from a judge.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1203,"children":1204},{},[1205,1210],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1206,"children":1207},{},[1208],{"type":176,"value":1209},"Non-Durable Power of Attorney:",{"type":176,"value":1211}," Takes effect immediately for specific financial tasks but automatically ends if you become incapacitated. Because it terminates the moment you suffer a health crisis, it is completely ineffective for long-term emergency care or incapacity planning.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1213,"children":1214},{},[1215,1220],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1216,"children":1217},{},[1218],{"type":176,"value":1219},"Limited Power of Attorney:",{"type":176,"value":1221}," Grants narrow authority for a specific transaction or time frame, such as signing real estate closing documents while you are out of state. The authority expires immediately once that single task is complete.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1223,"children":1224},{},[1225,1230],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1226,"children":1227},{},[1228],{"type":176,"value":1229},"Medical Power of Attorney:",{"type":176,"value":1231}," Formally recognized under Michigan law as a Patient Advocate Designation, this document takes effect only when two attending physicians examine you and certify in writing that you are unable to make your own medical decisions. It empowers your advocate to communicate with doctors, review medical records, and honor your specific treatment preferences.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1233,"children":1235},{"id":1234},"which-documents-stay-active-during-incapacity",[1236],{"type":176,"value":1237},"Which Documents Stay Active During Incapacity?",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1239,"children":1240},{},[1241],{"type":176,"value":1242},"The distinction between durable and non-durable legal authority is critical during a health crisis. A standard, or non-durable, document ends the moment a doctor determines you are unable to manage your own affairs. Only a durable power of attorney Michigan families establish and a Patient Advocate Designation, remain active during mental or physical incapacity.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1244,"children":1245},{},[1246],{"type":176,"value":1247},"Most comprehensive estate plans include more than one power of attorney document. Having both a durable financial authorization and a medical advocate ensures that your financial affairs and personal medical care are handled seamlessly by people you trust, without interruption.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1249,"children":1251},{"id":1250},"what-happens-without-the-right-power-of-attorney",[1252],{"type":176,"value":1253},"What Happens Without the Right Power of Attorney?",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1255,"children":1256},{},[1257],{"type":176,"value":1258},"Relying on generic online templates or incomplete legal forms leaves severe vulnerabilities. If an emergency occurs and your documents are missing or improperly drafted, Michigan law prevents your spouse or adult children from automatically taking over your accounts or medical decisions.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1260,"children":1261},{},[1262,1264,1269],{"type":176,"value":1263},"With average Michigan nursing home costs exceeding ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1265,"children":1266},{},[1267],{"type":176,"value":1268},"$12,000 per month",{"type":176,"value":1270},", an unexpected health crisis without active financial authority can freeze your assets when your family needs them most.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1272,"children":1273},{},[1274,1276,1281],{"type":176,"value":1275},"Without valid documents, your loved ones are forced to petition the local probate court in Oakland, Wayne, or Washtenaw counties for an emergency ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1277,"children":1278},{},[1279],{"type":176,"value":1280},"conservatorship or guardianship",{"type":176,"value":1282},". This process brings expensive legal fees, lengthy delays, public court hearings, and ongoing judicial oversight into your private family matters.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1284,"children":1286},{"id":1285},"recent-updates-to-michigan-power-of-attorney-laws",[1287],{"type":176,"value":1288},"Recent Updates to Michigan Power of Attorney Laws",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1290,"children":1291},{},[1292,1294,1299],{"type":176,"value":1293},"Michigan updated its power of attorney legal framework by adopting the ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1295,"children":1296},{},[1297],{"type":176,"value":1298},"Michigan Uniform Power of Attorney Act (UPOAA)",{"type":176,"value":1300},". 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Many document mills give clients a folder of standard templates and leave them to navigate complex legal rules on their own.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1323,"children":1324},{},[1325],{"type":176,"value":1326},"At Rutkowski Law Firm, our Proven Process delivers a complete Done-For-You experience backed by more than 50 years of combined legal expertise. We handle all the heavy lifting—including complete Trust Funding and document coordination—so your plan creates an active Asset Shield that keeps your family out of court.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1328,"children":1329},{},[1330],{"type":176,"value":1331},"Our legal team is ready to review your existing paperwork, update your authority under current Michigan law, and give your family total peace of mind.",{"title":23,"searchDepth":24,"depth":24,"links":1333},[1334,1335,1336,1337,1338,1339],{"id":1148,"depth":24,"text":1151},{"id":1174,"depth":24,"text":1177},{"id":1234,"depth":24,"text":1237},{"id":1250,"depth":24,"text":1253},{"id":1285,"depth":24,"text":1288},{"id":1313,"depth":24,"text":1316},"content:blog:the-4-types-of-power-of-attorney-in-michigan-what-every-family-must-know.md","blog/the-4-types-of-power-of-attorney-in-michigan-what-every-family-must-know.md","blog/the-4-types-of-power-of-attorney-in-michigan-what-every-family-must-know",{"_path":1344,"_dir":754,"_draft":7,"_partial":7,"_locale":8,"title":1345,"description":1140,"date":1346,"imageUrl":1347,"author":158,"imageAlt":1348,"practiceArea":1349,"body":1350,"_type":26,"_id":1591,"_source":28,"_file":1592,"_stem":1593,"_extension":31},"/blog/what-happens-when-michigan-decides-who-inherits-your-estate","What happens when Michigan decides who inherits your estate?","2026-07-28T20:20:00.000Z","https://media.rutkowskilawfirm.com/367b850e-1792-462b-8ca1-183c09ccc652-rlf-what-happens-when-michigan-decides-who-inherits-your-estate.webp","Family enjoying summers","estate-planning",{"type":20,"children":1351,"toc":1585},[1352,1357,1362,1367,1373,1378,1390,1430,1435,1441,1446,1458,1463,1503,1509,1514,1526,1559,1565,1570,1575,1580],{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1353,"children":1354},{},[1355],{"type":176,"value":1356},"You’ve spent a lifetime building your home, protecting your savings, and creating a secure future for the people you care about. Many parents assume that when they die, their assets will automatically pass to their spouse or children in line with their wishes.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1358,"children":1359},{},[1360],{"type":176,"value":1361},"However, if you die without an estate plan, you lose the ability to make those choices. Instead, Michigan inheritance laws determine what happens to your legacy.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1363,"children":1364},{},[1365],{"type":176,"value":1366},"Without a coordinated plan, the state follows a strict legal formula called intestate succession. This formula assigns fixed percentages based only on blood relationships and marital status. It disregards your personal relationships, family dynamics, stepchildren, and any verbal promises you made during your lifetime.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1368,"children":1370},{"id":1369},"how-michigan-inheritance-laws-function-without-a-will",[1371],{"type":176,"value":1372},"How Michigan Inheritance Laws Function Without a Will",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1374,"children":1375},{},[1376],{"type":176,"value":1377},"Relying on state guidelines is one of the biggest risks in family estate planning. When someone dies without a plan, their estate goes through probate, where a judge must use the state’s formula to decide who inherits every asset held in that person’s name.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1379,"children":1380},{},[1381,1383,1388],{"type":176,"value":1382},"Under ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1384,"children":1385},{},[1386],{"type":176,"value":1387},"Michigan inheritance laws without a will",{"type":176,"value":1389},", the state's default formula creates serious challenges for modern families:",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":1391,"children":1392},{},[1393,1403,1420],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1394,"children":1395},{},[1396,1401],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1397,"children":1398},{},[1399],{"type":176,"value":1400},"Blended Families:",{"type":176,"value":1402}," If you pass away leaving behind a surviving spouse and biological children from a prior relationship, state law forces a mandatory division of your estate between them. 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Even if you raised a stepchild from infancy and considered them your own, state law completely excludes them from receiving a dime unless you explicitly name them in a legal plan.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1421,"children":1422},{},[1423,1428],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1424,"children":1425},{},[1426],{"type":176,"value":1427},"Unmarried Partners:",{"type":176,"value":1429}," Long-term partners receive no legal protection or inheritance rights under default state rules, leaving them shut out from financial support or house ownership regardless of how many decades you shared together.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1431,"children":1432},{},[1433],{"type":176,"value":1434},"Leaving your legacy to default state guidelines removes your personal voice entirely, handing your life's work over to a legal calculator that does not care about your true intentions.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1436,"children":1438},{"id":1437},"the-real-cost-of-default-state-proceedings",[1439],{"type":176,"value":1440},"The Real Cost of Default State Proceedings",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1442,"children":1443},{},[1444],{"type":176,"value":1445},"Surrendering control to default laws does more than just misallocate assets—it forces your grieving family into public Michigan probate court.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1447,"children":1448},{},[1449,1451,1456],{"type":176,"value":1450},"If your solely titled assets exceed the $53,000 small estate limit in Michigan, your children must hire an ",{"type":171,"tag":179,"props":1452,"children":1453},{"href":181},[1454],{"type":176,"value":1455},"estate planning ",{"type":176,"value":1457},"attorney or probate lawyer to open formal court proceedings in county probate courts like Oakland, Macomb, Wayne, or Washtenaw.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1459,"children":1460},{},[1461],{"type":176,"value":1462},"This public court process introduces severe burdens for your loved ones:",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":1464,"children":1465},{},[1466,1476,1486],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1467,"children":1468},{},[1469,1474],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1470,"children":1471},{},[1472],{"type":176,"value":1473},"Frozen Accounts:",{"type":176,"value":1475}," Financial accounts can be locked for months while the court appoints an administrator, leaving your family unable to cover mortgage payments or household bills.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1477,"children":1478},{},[1479,1484],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1480,"children":1481},{},[1482],{"type":176,"value":1483},"Public Exposure:",{"type":176,"value":1485}," Every asset you owned and every debt you owed becomes a matter of public court record for anyone to view.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1487,"children":1488},{},[1489,1494,1496,1501],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1490,"children":1491},{},[1492],{"type":176,"value":1493},"Loss of Asset Protection:",{"type":176,"value":1495}," Default distributions offer zero protection against external risks, such as long-term care liabilities like the ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1497,"children":1498},{},[1499],{"type":176,"value":1500},"$12,216 monthly cost",{"type":176,"value":1502}," of Michigan nursing home care.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1504,"children":1506},{"id":1505},"how-proactive-planning-keeps-you-in-control",[1507],{"type":176,"value":1508},"How Proactive Planning Keeps You in Control",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1510,"children":1511},{},[1512],{"type":176,"value":1513},"The price of inaction is simply too high for Michigan families. Fortunately, you can completely bypass default state formulas and public court interference by building a proactive life strategy.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1515,"children":1516},{},[1517,1519,1524],{"type":176,"value":1518},"Establishing a ",{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1520,"children":1521},{},[1522],{"type":176,"value":1523},"revocable living trust",{"type":176,"value":1525}," paired with aligned beneficiary designations ensures that you—not a probate judge—decide who inherits your estate:",{"type":171,"tag":234,"props":1527,"children":1528},{},[1529,1539,1549],{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1530,"children":1531},{},[1532,1537],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1533,"children":1534},{},[1535],{"type":176,"value":1536},"Total Authority:",{"type":176,"value":1538}," You specify exact distributions for biological children, stepchildren, blended family members, or charitable causes without state interference.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1540,"children":1541},{},[1542,1547],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1543,"children":1544},{},[1545],{"type":176,"value":1546},"Smooth Transition:",{"type":176,"value":1548}," Assets held in a funded trust transfer privately and immediately to your chosen beneficiaries upon your passing, bypassing court delays entirely.",{"type":171,"tag":238,"props":1550,"children":1551},{},[1552,1557],{"type":171,"tag":830,"props":1553,"children":1554},{},[1555],{"type":176,"value":1556},"Protection Against Incapacity:",{"type":176,"value":1558}," A trust allows a trusted family member or trustee to manage your affairs privately if you become ill, avoiding public guardianship court proceedings.",{"type":171,"tag":216,"props":1560,"children":1562},{"id":1561},"protecting-what-matters-most-with-a-done-for-you-strategy",[1563],{"type":176,"value":1564},"Protecting What Matters Most with a Done-For-You Strategy",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1566,"children":1567},{},[1568],{"type":176,"value":1569},"A strong estate plan is far more than a pile of paper templates collecting dust. The typical approach from a generic document service or general practice attorney leaves you with a binder and expects you to navigate all the bank transfers alone. When your bank accounts, real estate, and investments aren’t properly aligned, your trust stays unfunded—and your family can end up right back in court.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1571,"children":1572},{},[1573],{"type":176,"value":1574},"At the Rutkowski Law Firm, we trade uncertainty for complete clarity. Using our Proven Process, our team provides a white-glove, done-for-you trust funding service backed by more than 50 years of combined experience. We take care of the legwork with your financial institutions to move your accounts, property deeds, and investments into your trust structure, creating a fortified Asset Shield that relieves your children of unnecessary administrative stress.",{"type":171,"tag":172,"props":1576,"children":1577},{},[1578],{"type":176,"value":1579},"Don’t leave your family’s future to rigid state formulas or disorganized paperwork. 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