Guardianship Lawyers in Ann Arbor & Tecumseh, MI
Compassionate counsel for minors, aging parents, and vulnerable adults across Washtenaw and Lenawee Counties.
A sudden stroke, progressive memory loss, or the loss of a caregiver can leave a loved one unable to manage daily life. Michigan guardianship allows a responsible adult to step in, ensuring medical care, safe housing, and protection from exploitation. Our attorneys guide families through this process with compassion, always seeking the least-restrictive solution that preserves your relative’s dignity.
Book a private consultation today to see if guardianship is the right next step for your family.
Why Choose Stimpson & Associates
Filing a guardianship petition is more than filling in state forms. We interview physicians, prepare clear‑and‑convincing evidence for the probate judge, and coordinate the court‑appointed Guardian ad Litem. Throughout the case we translate legal jargon into plain English so you can make informed choices. After appointment, we stay by your side, preparing annual reports and answering routine questions about powers, limits, and compliance.
For more than two decades our firm has appeared before every Washtenaw and Lenawee probate judge. We knit guardianship, elder‑law, and special‑needs planning into a single, forward‑looking strategy. Clients appreciate our flat‑fee and sliding‑scale options, our 24‑hour message‑return policy, and our willingness to serve as neutral, court‑appointed guardians when families cannot agree.
Our Guardianship Services
- Adult, minor, temporary, and limited guardianships
- Combined guardian/conservator appointments for estates that need financial oversight
- Contested‑hearing advocacy and mediation
- Professional fiduciary services when no suitable family member is available
- Annual‑report drafting and court‑ordered review support
Ready to learn more? Connect with our team today.
Step‑by‑Step Probate‑Court Process
The path from petition to Letters of Guardianship is predictable when you know each milestone:
- File Petition (PC 625 + county cover sheet)
- Serve Notice on the proposed ward and interested relatives
- Guardian ad Litem Investigation and medical evaluation
- Probate Hearing—judge applies the clear‑and‑convincing standard
- Acceptance & Letters—guardian signs PC 571; court issues official credentials
Typical uncontested matters take four‑to‑six weeks in Washtenaw County and six‑to‑eight in Lenawee. Emergencies can be heard within days.
Our guardianship attorneys are ready to guide you.
Guardian Duties & Ongoing Compliance
Once appointed, a guardian must arrange medical care, monitor living conditions, visit at least quarterly, and encourage the ward’s independence whenever possible. Michigan law also requires an Annual Report (PC 634) summarizing the ward’s health, residence, and significant decisions. If the guardian controls routine income, those funds must be spent solely for the ward’s benefit, with surplus conserved for future needs. Court approval is required before selling real estate or moving the ward out of state.
Relatives will thank you for eliminating the monthly chaos of unpaid bills and conflicting medical instructions.
Contested or Complex Guardianships
Family disagreements, competing petitions, or suspected exploitation can complicate a case. We marshal medical experts, financial investigators, and experienced mediators to protect the vulnerable adult while respecting family dynamics. When necessary, we petition for protective orders or emergency appointments to halt ongoing harm.
Alternatives to Guardianship
Guardianship strips significant rights, so Michigan courts require proof that no lesser measure will suffice.
Below are practical alternatives we explore before filing a petition:
Durable Power of Attorney (Finances)
Lets an adult appoint a trusted agent to pay bills, manage bank accounts, and sign contracts—even after incapacity. It often eliminates the need for a court‑appointed conservator.
Conservatorship
If money management—not personal care—is the problem, the court can name a conservator to control assets while the individual keeps all other rights. This limited solution avoids the broader reach of a full guardian.
Supported Decision‑Making
Ideal for adults with developmental disabilities who can make choices with guidance. A written SDM plan names supporters who help explain options; the adult still signs all decisions, preserving autonomy.
Patient‑Advocate Designation (Medical POA)
A healthcare‑power‑of‑attorney document that authorizes a “patient advocate” to consent to treatment, discuss care with doctors, and handle end‑of‑life decisions—without court oversight.
Choosing the right tool depends on capacity, family dynamics, and asset mix. We tailor every plan to your loved one’s risk, abilities, and goals before recommending guardianship
Ready to Protect Your Loved One?
Your family deserves clarity and security. Let us shoulder the legal work while you focus on care and connection.
Book a consultation with one of our trusted Attorney’s today.
What Our Clients Are Saying
My wife and I worked with Jessica Kelly to rewrite and update our estate documents. Jessica was thoughtful, caring, articulate and professional and showed a thorough understanding of issues we faced. She worked carefully and patiently with us to produce a document that we feel will serve us well. Without reservation, we would recommend her services to others.
Our family experienced an unimaginable tragedy and Stimpson Law helped us every step of the way. They were understanding, caring, and showed compassion while handling our legal matters. We are so appreciative of the entire office and highly recommend them.
Mr. Stimpson and his colleagues were so kind and very polite and helpful, when I was going through my divorce. They took the time and patience to explain everything in detail to my understanding. I would refer Stimpson & Associates to anyone who needs lawyer services.
I wish I could give Stimpson and his team more than five stars! Stimpson was my attorney for a drawn-out and emotional case. He kept me level-headed, focused, and most importantly, prepared. I genuinely appreciate his advice, his honesty, and his straightforward attitude. My fight was his fight and that was evident in the courtroom. Stimpson was worth every single penny! A BIG thank you to him and his team!
Meet Our Legal Team
Compassionate, experienced, and here to guide you every step of the way.
David M. Stimpson
Managing Partner
David Lacasse
Attorney
