Malicoat Law Journal
26+ comprehensive legal articles, Medicaid planning guides, and estate insights by Michigan attorneys Geoff Malicoat & Paige Palumbo serving Midland, Tawas City, and all of Michigan.
Estate Planning7 Year-End Estate Planning Steps for Michigan Families
As the year draws to a close, a thoughtful estate plan review helps ensure your trust documents, beneficiary designations, and tax strategies match your current life circumstances in Michigan.
Business PlanningBusiness Mistakes That Can Increase Litigation Risk
Small business decisions can create significant legal problems over time. Learn how clear contracts, proper LLC formalities, and buy-sell agreements protect Michigan business owners.
Family & EstateKey Legal Documents for Kids Turning 18
When a child steps into adulthood at 18, parents lose automatic access to medical records and financial decisions. Discover the essential POAs and HIPAA waivers every young adult needs.
Estate PlanningTypes of Unforgiven Debt in Estate Planning
When planning for the future, understanding which debts survive death and how probate claims affect inheritances is essential to protecting your beneficiaries.
Elder LawSenior Fraud Awareness: Protecting Older Adults From Common Scams
Modern scams targeting older adults have grown aggressive. Discover how financial powers of attorney, trust protections, and vigilance keep your senior family members secure.
Elder LawOlder Americans Month: Essential Estate Planning Checklist
Revisiting long-term plans during Older Americans Month ensures your healthcare wishes, living trust funding, and long-term care protections remain completely up to date.
Elder LawCommon Misconceptions About Applying for Medicaid — Why Talking With an Attorney Matters
Navigating Michigan Medicaid's 5-year lookback period and asset limits doesn't mean giving up your family home or life savings. Learn the truth behind common Medicaid myths.
Estate PlanningUnderstanding Common Estate Planning Myths
Debunking the top legal misconceptions: 'I have a will so I avoid probate', 'Estate planning is only for the wealthy', and 'My spouse automatically inherits everything'.
Probate & CourtUnderstanding and Preventing Conservatorship and Guardianship Abuse
Guardianships place immense authority in a fiduciary's hands. Discover how proactive estate planning and powers of attorney keep court intervention off the table.
Trust AdministrationSafeguarding Assets for Loved Ones Who Need Extra Support
Special needs trusts preserve government benefit eligibility while providing vital financial support and long-term care management for family members with special needs.
Probate & CourtUnderstanding a Guardian’s Fiduciary Duties in Michigan
Becoming a court-appointed guardian brings serious legal responsibilities. Learn how Michigan probate courts oversee fiduciary accounting and personal care reports.
Family & EstateHoliday Moments That Make Estate Planning Conversations Easier
When families gather for the holidays, gentle discussions regarding health directives, trustees, and legacy wishes can prevent future emotional strain.
Estate PlanningGive Thanks by Safeguarding Your Family Legacy
Thanksgiving in Michigan is a time for reflection and gratitude. Protecting your assets through a living trust ensures your hard-earned legacy benefits your family.
Estate PlanningBig Life Changes? Key Estate Steps to Take Before Year-End
Marriage, divorce, retirement, or welcoming a new grandchild require immediate updates to wills, trusts, financial POAs, and primary beneficiary forms.
Elder LawUnderstanding OBBBA's Impact: Key Legislative Changes for Seniors
A detailed breakdown of recent legislative reforms impacting Michigan senior healthcare benefits, long-term care planning, and tax structures.
Probate & CourtUnderstanding Types of Guardianship: Which One Fits Your Needs?
Full guardianship vs. limited guardianship vs. conservatorship: navigate Michigan probate court requirements to choose the least restrictive option.
Estate PlanningHow to Use a 529 Plan to Pay for the Education of Your Child
Maximize tax-free growth and SECURE 2.0 Roth IRA rollovers when funding educational savings accounts for children and grandchildren in Michigan.
Family & EstateTalking to Your Children About Inheritance
Open communication regarding estate intentions prevents post-death sibling conflicts and clarifies trustee expectations early.
Estate PlanningEstate Planning for Young Families
Protecting minor children through court-recognized guardian designations and minor's sub-trusts before unexpected emergencies occur.
Trust AdministrationTaking Good Care of Your Pets Through Pet Trusts
Michigan law allows pet owners to establish enforceable pet trusts, allocating funds and designating caregivers for beloved companion animals.
Elder LawExpediting the Disability Claim Process in Michigan
Navigating SSDI and SSI disability applications effectively while building strong medical documentation to avoid lengthy appeal delays.
Elder LawHow Does End-of-Life Planning Work?
A compassionate overview of patient advocate designations, DNR orders, living wills, and hospice planning in Michigan.
Elder LawAn Overview of Health Care Directives in Michigan
Why every adult over 18 needs a Durable Power of Attorney for Healthcare and HIPAA disclosure authorization.
Business PlanningStrategies for Intergenerational Wealth Transfer
Minimizing estate taxes, protecting family business continuity, and structuring irrevocable gift trusts under federal and state tax law.
Estate PlanningThe 5 Core Components of Every Complete Estate Plan
The essential legal quintet: Revocable Living Trust, Pour-Over Will, Financial Power of Attorney, Healthcare Directive, and Deed transfer tools.
Family & EstateMaking End-of-Life Plans is a True Gift to Your Family
Relieving emotional burdens from grieving family members by leaving clear, legally structured estate and funeral instructions.