Collens Estate Law

06/19/2026

One of the most common questions trustees ask when they contact our office is how long will trust administration take. The reality is that timelines vary widely depending on the trust’s complexity and the assets involved.

Some trusts may be fully administered in a matter of months. Others may require years to complete, particularly when they contain complex investments, real estate holdings, or long-term distribution requirements.

Trustees should resist the pressure to rush major financial decisions simply to finish the process quickly. Careful planning often protects the trust’s value and ensures the grantor’s intentions are properly fulfilled.

A thoughtful approach allows trustees to manage the trust responsibly while avoiding unnecessary financial losses.

For guidance on trust administration timelines, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

06/18/2026

Beneficiaries have a legal right to understand how the trust is being managed. For trustees, this means maintaining clear communication and providing accurate information.

Keeping beneficiaries informed helps reduce misunderstandings and prevents unnecessary tension within families. Even when trust administration takes time, regular updates can reassure beneficiaries that the process is moving forward responsibly.

Transparency and documentation are key components of effective trust administration. When trustees communicate clearly and keep thorough records, they create a more cooperative environment for everyone involved.

If you need assistance managing trustee responsibilities, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

06/16/2026

Today, Attorney Howard H. Collens is presenting professional training for Lakeshore Legal Aid and the Michigan Poverty Law Program, focused on the fundamentals of probate practice.

The session provides attorneys with a comprehensive overview of core probate procedures and practical guidance for navigating estate administration matters on behalf of their clients.

We are honored to support continuing legal education and contribute to training that helps strengthen access to knowledgeable, compassionate legal services across Michigan.

06/16/2026

Trustees are responsible for managing trust assets in a way that reflects thoughtful financial planning and responsible risk management. Michigan law expects trustees to follow a “prudent investor” approach when making investment decisions.

This standard recognizes that not every investment will perform perfectly. Instead, trustees should focus on maintaining a balanced strategy that protects the long-term interests of the beneficiaries.

Striking the right balance between meeting the needs of current beneficiaries and preserving assets for future generations is an important responsibility for a trustee. Diversification, patience, and careful evaluation of financial opportunities all play an important role in responsible trust management.

Working with financial professionals can also help trustees develop strategies that align with the trust’s long-term goals while protecting the assets entrusted to them.

To discuss trust investment responsibilities, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

06/13/2026

Serving as a trustee comes with what Michigan law describes as fiduciary duties. This is the highest legal standard of care when managing someone else’s financial assets.
A trustee must act in the best interests of the beneficiaries at all times. Personal interests cannot interfere with decisions about trust property, and trustees must approach financial management with careful judgment.

This responsibility includes maintaining accurate records, making thoughtful financial decisions, and ensuring trust assets are used according to the grantor’s instructions.

Understanding the breadth of fiduciary duties helps trustees protect the interests of beneficiaries while also protecting themselves from potential legal complications.

If you would like guidance on fulfilling your responsibilities as trustee, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

Collens Estate Law

06/11/2026

Many new trustees are unaware that Michigan law requires a specific notification early in the trust administration process.

Within 63 days of assuming the role, trustees must notify beneficiaries that the trust has become irrevocable and inform them of their right to request a copy of the trust document.

This requirement promotes transparency and ensures beneficiaries understand their legal rights regarding the trust. Missing this deadline can create complications and unnecessary legal issues during administration.

Handling this obligation early helps establish clear communication and sets the tone for a more cooperative relationship between trustees and beneficiaries.

If you have questions about trustee deadlines or legal obligations, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

Collens Estate Law

06/09/2026

After reviewing the trust document, a trustee’s next priority is identifying and organizing the assets held by the trust. This often includes real estate, bank accounts, investment portfolios, and personal property that were transferred into the trust during the grantor’s lifetime.

A complete inventory provides the trustee with a clear picture of the trust’s initial financial landscape. Certain assets may require professional appraisals so their value can be accurately documented for accounting and reporting purposes.
This inventory becomes the foundation for managing the trust properly. Without it, trustees may overlook assets or struggle to provide accurate information to beneficiaries.

Careful documentation early in the process helps ensure transparency and supports responsible administration moving forward.

For guidance through the trust administration process, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

Collens Estate Law

06/05/2026

We're pleased to announce that Attorney Howard H. Collens for the 9th year will be presenting the Legislative Update at this year's ICLE Probate and Estate Planning Institute.

Howard will provide a timely overview of key developments in Michigan law, upcoming legislation, as well as a discussion of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act and its impact on estate, trust, and tax planning strategies.

Understanding how legislative changes may affect clients is critical for practitioners, and this session is designed to help professionals stay informed and prepared for what's ahead.

We appreciate the opportunity to contribute to another outstanding ICLE program and look forward to educating fellow estate planning and probate professionals.

Collens Estate Law

06/04/2026

One of the most important steps for a trustee is reading the trust document carefully. The trust serves as the instruction manual for how the grantor intended their assets to be managed and distributed. Before taking action, trustees should fully understand who the beneficiaries are, what distributions are required, and what authority the trust provides.

This initial review helps trustees avoid misunderstandings later in the administration process. It clarifies responsibilities, outlines timelines for distributions, and explains how assets should be handled.

Taking the time to study the trust document early allows trustees to make informed decisions and confidently carry out the grantor’s wishes while meeting their legal obligations.

If you have questions about reviewing or interpreting a trust document, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

Collens Estate Law

06/02/2026

When someone passes away and their trust becomes irrevocable, the person named as trustee suddenly takes on a significant responsibility. Many individuals are surprised to learn that trust administration involves far more than distributing assets. A trustee must manage property, track finances, communicate with beneficiaries, and ensure the trust is administered according to the grantor’s instructions and Michigan law.

This role often begins during an emotionally difficult time for families. Trustees must balance legal duties with the need for clear communication and thoughtful decision-making. Understanding what lies ahead can help prevent confusion and reduce the stress that often accompanies the early stages of trust administration.
Preparation and careful attention to detail can make the entire process smoother for everyone involved.

To learn more about trustee responsibilities and trust administration, call (248) 265-3176 or visit www.CollensEstateLaw.com.

Our experienced estate and probate lawyers in Detroit Michigan provide personalized legal solutions to secure your assets and plan for the future.