KN Legal/ Kyrsten Niemiec, PLC

KN Legal/ Kyrsten Niemiec, PLC A Monroe County law practice specializing in Divorce, Family Law, Estate Planning, Probate, and Criminal Defe

OpenAI says ChatGPT is not a lawyer, asks court to toss insurer's lawsuit
06/07/2026

OpenAI says ChatGPT is not a lawyer, asks court to toss insurer's lawsuit

OpenAI has asked a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit alleging it gave unauthorized legal advice, arguing that its generative artificial intelligence platform ChatGPT is not a lawyer and does not ​practice law.

06/04/2026

Being named the executor of an estate is not just an honor — it is a legal responsibility.
An executor (called a “personal representative” in Michigan) is expected to handle important duties during probate, including:

• Gathering estate assets

• Paying debts and taxes

• Communicating with beneficiaries

• Following the terms of the will

• Distributing assets properly

But what happens when the executor refuses to cooperate, disappears, delays the process, or mishandles the estate?

In some situations, the probate court may remove and replace a personal representative who is failing to do the job properly.

Estate disputes can quickly create tension within families — especially when money, property, or inheritances are involved. Understanding your rights during probate can help protect both the estate and the beneficiaries involved.

The 7-Step Divorce Checklist
06/03/2026

The 7-Step Divorce Checklist

Divorce is difficult, regardless of the circumstances. To get through this hard time, it can help to focus on concrete solutions. That's where a divorce checklist comes in. A divorce checklist can offer a sense of clarity and direction when … Continue reading → The post How to Prepare for a Divo...

A handwritten Will may be legal in Michigan — but that does not always mean it is a good idea.Michigan does recognize ce...
06/01/2026

A handwritten Will may be legal in Michigan — but that does not always mean it is a good idea.

Michigan does recognize certain handwritten Wills if they meet very specific legal requirements. The problem is that these documents are often unclear, incomplete, or easy for family members to challenge in probate court.

Common issues include:
• Unclear wording about who receives assets
• Missing signatures or dates
• Questions about authenticity or mental capacity
• Family disputes over what the person “really meant”
• Important assets accidentally left out

What seemed simple at the kitchen table can quickly turn into expensive probate litigation for loved ones later.

A properly prepared estate plan can help ensure your wishes are clearly documented, legally enforceable, and far less likely to create conflict for your family.

Myth 1: "I’m not a millionaire, so I don’t need a Will." The Reality: You don’t need a private jet to need a plan. A Wil...
05/27/2026

Myth 1: "I’m not a millionaire, so I don’t need a Will."

The Reality: You don’t need a private jet to need a plan. A Will is a simple tool to ensure your car, bank account, and even sentimental jewelry go to the right person without a family fight.

Myth 2: "A Will keeps my family out of Probate Court."

The Reality: Plot twist—a Will is actually just a letter to the Probate Judge. It doesn't keep you out of court; it’s your "ticket in" so the court can oversee the process.

Myth 3: "My family will just 'know' what to do."

The Reality: Even with the best intentions, things get messy when emotions are high. Without a legal plan, a judge who doesn't know your family may end up making the big decisions for you.

Myth 4: "Estate planning is only for what happens after I’m gone."

The Reality: Probate isn't just for the deceased. If you become incapacitated and can't make decisions, your family might have to go through "Living Probate" (Guardianship) to help you.

Myth 5: "Once I write a Will, I’m done forever."

The Reality: Laws change! For example, the 2026 Tax Sunset means many older estate plans might now face heavy taxes they weren't expecting.

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their leg...
05/25/2026

Today, we pause to honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Their legacy of service is never forgotten. 🇺🇸

Wishing you and your family a meaningful and peaceful Memorial Day.

— The Team at KN Lega

Six-Month Sentence in Bee-Assault Case
05/24/2026

Six-Month Sentence in Bee-Assault Case

By “bee-assault” I mean she was charged with using bees to assault people, not that she assaulted a bee. Although she arguably did that too.

Lawyer in Monroe, MI Specializing in Family Law, Divorce, Estate Planning, Probate, and Criminal Defense
05/22/2026

Lawyer in Monroe, MI Specializing in Family Law, Divorce, Estate Planning, Probate, and Criminal Defense

Address

13 Washington Street
Monroe, MI
48161

Opening Hours

Monday 9am - 4:30pm
Tuesday 9am - 4:30pm
Wednesday 9am - 4:30pm
Thursday 9am - 4:30pm
Friday 9am - 4:30pm

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