5 West Legal Services, PLLC

04/24/2026

Do you actually need a will?

Quick answer: Yes. Without a will, Michigan law decides who gets your assets — not you. Here are 3 things that happen when you die without one: 1) The state picks your heirs. 2) A court appoints a guardian for minor children. 3) Your wishes don't matter legally. Let's fix that.

DM me or Book a Quick Connect call: https://calendly.com/5westlegal/qc

04/23/2026

Real talk — most people don't have a will. Not because they don't care about their family, but because no one made it easy enough to get done.

That's exactly why I started 5 West Legal Services, PLLC. I'm Brenda Bates, a Michigan estate planning attorney, and my whole mission is making estate planning accessible, straightforward, and actually done.

If you've been putting it off, let's fix that. Start with a 20-minute call — no pressure, no jargon, just answers.

Book here: https://calendly.com/5westlegal/qc

02/06/2026

Had to try it.

01/12/2026

Hold your finger anywhere in this message and “copy” will appear. Click “copy. Then go to your page, create a new post, and place your finger anywhere in the empty field. “Paste” will appear, and click Paste.
This will bypass the system….
He who does nothing consents
According to the show 60 Minutes:
Just in case you missed it: a lawyer advised us to post this. The violation of privacy can be punished by law. NOTE: Facebook Meta is now a public entity. Every member must post a note like this. If you do not publish a statement at least once, it will be technically understood that you are allowing the use of your photos, as well as the information contained in your profile status updates.
I HEREBY DECLARE THAT I DO NOT GIVE MY PERMISSION FOR FACEBOOK OR META TO USE ANY OF MY PERSONAL DATA. 🤷‍♀️😵‍💫 JUST IN CASE.@

05/27/2024

As we gather this Memorial Day to honor and remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice, let us also reflect on the legacies they have left behind. At 5 West Legal Services, we are reminded of the importance of preserving stories, values, and memories for generations to come. This Memorial Day, let's commit to protecting what matters most—our family, our freedoms, and our futures. Wishing everyone a day of reflection, gratitude, and peace.

05/15/2024

I love this quote by Oprah Winfrey because it underscores the transformative power of mindset and attitude—not just in life, but in securing our legacies. At 5 West Legal Services, we believe in empowering our clients to take control of their futures through thoughtful estate planning. Just as positive thinking can reshape our lives, proactive planning can secure our legacies. Let's harness the power within to create not only the life we desire but also the lasting legacy we wish to leave behind. 🌟

05/13/2024

Summer travel is on the horizon, sparking dreams of new adventures! As you plan your next exotic escape, it's a perfect moment to consider how well your estate plan travels with you. Have you updated your will to reflect your current wishes? Who will manage your affairs if you're enjoying a sunset halfway across the world? Let’s make sure your estate planning is as ready for adventure as you are. What’s the most unforgettable trip you've ever taken? Share your stories and let’s get inspired together!

05/12/2024

03/06/2024

In honor of this being Women's Month, as an estate planning attorney, I would like to know what do women consider a necessary component of an estate plan. ;

02/07/2024

It’s tax time! Join Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Nu Alpha Sigma Chapter for their upcoming webinar.



Need help this year filing your taxes? Have any tax related questions? Join the bothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc, Nu Alpha Sigma Chapter for our 2024 Tax Webinar with TonNise Lenyard of Ally Financial to answer all of your questions to discover all of the ins and outs of getting your taxes done!