Estate Planning Attorney in Flushing, Michigan
What Is an Estate?
At Gwyn C. Abbott, PLLC, we believe estate planning should bring peace of mind — not confusion. Gwyn takes a unique, personal approach to Estate Planning in Flushing, Michigan, ensuring every client understands exactly what each document means and how it protects them both before and after death.
Rather than leaving you overwhelmed with paperwork and legal terms, Gwyn makes the process educational, clear, and empowering. Every plan is built to reflect your specific needs, family situation, and long-term goals.
What Is an Estate?
Your estate includes everything you own — your home, vehicles, investments, jewelry, savings, business interests, and more. Whether your assets are large or modest, having a plan for them protects your family from uncertainty and conflict.
When you pass away, the handling of your estate — called probate — can become time-consuming and costly without proper preparation. A well-drafted plan ensures your loved ones avoid unnecessary court involvement and stress.
What Is an Estate?
An estate plan is a complete package of legal documents that determine how, when, and to whom your estate will be distributed after death. It can also protect you while you’re still living, providing clear instructions if you become temporarily or permanently incapacitated.
A strong estate plan may include:
Wills and Trusts (asset distribution)
Powers of Attorney (financial and healthcare)
Guardianship and Conservatorship designations
Funeral Representative Appointments
Special-Needs Trusts (for beneficiaries receiving government benefits)
Together, these documents give your loved ones guidance and security — and ensure your wishes, not a judge’s decision, are followed.
Who Needs an Estate Plan?
Many believe estate planning is only for the elderly or wealthy — but that’s far from true.
Everyone, regardless of age or income, benefits from having a legal plan in place.
Single Adults (With or Without Children)
Without an estate plan, a court decides who handles your finances, healthcare, or the care of your children if you become incapacitated. Having the right documents in place ensures your chosen person — not the court — steps in to manage your affairs and care for your family.
Single Adults (With or Without Children)
Without an estate plan, a court decides who handles your finances, healthcare, or the care of your children if you become incapacitated. Having the right documents in place ensures your chosen person — not the court — steps in to manage your affairs and care for your family.
Married Individuals
Even if you’re married, your spouse doesn’t automatically gain full legal authority over your finances or healthcare in an emergency. With a durable power of attorney and healthcare directive, you both stay protected.
Parents of Minor Children
Without a plan, the court decides who raises your children. With a guardian designation, you can choose who cares for them and how their inheritance is managed.
Blended Families or Children from Previous Relationships
If you pass before your spouse, your biological children might not inherit as you intend. A properly designed trustensures fair, intentional distribution among children from different relationships.
Families with Loved Ones Receiving Government Benefits
For children or adults with disabilities, a special-needs trust protects their inheritance without jeopardizing essential benefits.
Business Owners
Whether you’re self-employed or run a larger business, a succession plan ensures your company continues to operate smoothly in the event of incapacity or death.
Common Myths About Trusts and Probate
You may have heard from a friend or financial planner that “you must have a trust.” The truth?
Not every client needs one. The right estate plan depends on your assets, family dynamics, and goals. Gwyn helps you determine whether a trust is beneficial — and if so, how it should be structured.
She also provides guidance on estate (probate) and trust administration, helping families efficiently manage estates after a loved one’s passing.
Benefits of a Comprehensive Estate Plan
You, not a judge, decide who raises your children.
You decide who manages your estate and inheritance.
You can protect government benefits for a special-needs child.
You can delay or limit distributions to financially immature heirs.
You can minimize tax burdens and court costs.
You can ensure your healthcare preferences are honored.
You can prevent family disputes and stress at an already difficult time.
With a thorough, customized estate plan, your wishes are respected and your loved ones are cared for — just as you intended.
Why Clients Choose Gwyn C. Abbott, PLLC
Gwyn combines legal expertise with compassion and education. She ensures you understand every clause and choice before signing, giving you full confidence that your plan fits your life perfectly.
Located in Flushing, Michigan, Gwyn proudly serves families throughout Genesee County, including Birch Run, Grand Blanc, Fenton, Davison, and nearby communities.
She also provides free post-planning services, offering to meet with your loved ones or fiduciaries to explain how your plan works — ensuring your wishes are clearly understood.