For many people, retirement savings represent decades of work and the foundation of their long-term financial security. When a marriage ends, questions naturally arise about what happens to those accounts—and how divorce may affect your future ability to retire comfortably. Michigan law provides clear guidelines for dividing pensions, 401(k)s, IRAs, and other retirement benefits, but the process can be complex and highly dependent on each couple’s circumstances.
Read MoreAs the end of the year approaches, many Michigan businesses look for ways to support charitable organizations while maximizing available tax benefits. Understanding the core legal and tax rules can help ensure that contributions are both compliant and strategically beneficial.
Read MoreBuckman MacDonald & Brown is now Buckman Tuinstra & Brown! Same exceptional service with a new look and a new name.
Read MoreDividing assets and debts in a Michigan divorce can be complex. Learn how courts handle marital property, real estate, businesses, and prenups — and what “equitable distribution” really means.
Read MoreFor high-net-worth individuals, strategic estate planning is essential. Upstream Estate Planning is a tax-savvy tool that intentionally transfers appreciated assets to an older relative to minimize capital gains taxes and preserve wealth. Upon that relative’s death, the asset’s value is reset to the fair market value at the time of death.
Read MoreLosing a case in a Michigan trial court doesn’t always mean the legal fight is over. If you believe the court made a legal mistake that affected the outcome of your case, you may have the right to appeal.
Read MoreDivorce can impact kids’ mental health, but parents are not helpless. A Michigan divorce lawyer and family law attorney shares guidance on strategies and support.
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Some of the toughest title disputes in Michigan involve “orphaned” properties—land with no clear owner or long-deceased title holders. A quiet title action can clear these titles, even when heirs are unknown, ensuring abandoned or heirless land can be restored to productive use.
Read MoreWhen property ownership is unclear, a quiet title action can provide the legal clarity you need. In Michigan, this process helps eliminate competing claims, resolve defects, and secure your right to the property—making it marketable and insurable for the future.
Read MoreKey differences between divorce and separate maintenance under Michigan legal separation law. Our family law guide explains your options, rights, and how to choose the best path forward.
Read MoreIn Michigan’s dynamic business climate, mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are strategic tools for growth, succession planning, or market expansion. Whether you’re a business owner considering selling your company or a buyer looking to acquire a new venture, understanding the legal landscape—especially under Michigan law—is essential.
Read MoreProbate disputes often stem from unclear documents, outdated plans, or misunderstandings among heirs. Working with experienced attorneys in Michigan can make all the difference when it comes to avoiding probate litigation.
Read MoreBuckman MacDonald & Brown, your expert attorneys serving our exceptional community, is pleased to announce the purchase of the locally-iconic office building at 272 E 8th Street, formerly home to the Michigan West Coast Chamber of Commerce.
Read MoreTechnology has transformed how separated or divorced parents collaborate in raising their children. It has proven especially helpful in making co-parenting more manageable, organized, and peaceful. As a practicing family law attorney, Anne Tuinstra is committed to caring for families before, during, and after a divorce.
Read MoreFor Michigan businesses, the legal and financial repercussions of an unprepared breach response can be severe, ranging from steep penalties and reputational harm to regulatory scrutiny and litigation. As legal advisors to Michigan businesses, we urge companies to take a proactive stance on data breach preparedness.
Read MoreIf you are going through a divorce in Michigan and have children who are minors, you will hear the phrase “best interests of the child” throughout the process. What are the 12 factors that determine parental rights in Michigan? Read today’s blog to ensure you aren’t jeopardizing your parental rights.
Read MoreEstate planning can be a complex process, but one tool that has gained popularity in Michigan is the Ladybird Deed. This unique instrument allows property owners to transfer real estate to beneficiaries without the need for probate, offering several advantages for those looking to streamline their estate planning.
Read MoreWhat happens when summer hits and you now find yourself divorced and co-parenting through this stage? Here are some practical tips to help summers stay special for your child while you and your co-parent manage the details.
Read MoreSafeguard your Michigan vacation home for generations to come, and ensure it continues to be a source of family joy rather than legal headaches. Learn what your options are to set up your cottage ownership, and plan for your family’s future goals.
Read MoreBusiness succession planning is a critical component of any comprehensive estate plan, especially for business owners in Michigan. It ensures the smooth transition of your business to the next generation or designated successors, safeguarding your legacy and the future of your enterprise. Read the six key reasons why business succession planning is essential.
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