Thinking about passing your home, cottage, or land to your children during your lifetime? While gifting real estate can be a meaningful gesture, it’s important to understand the legal and tax implications before making the move. A well-intentioned gift can sometimes trigger unintended capital gains taxes, Medicaid eligibility issues, or even family disputes. At Schuitmaker Moraitis, we work with families to weigh the pros and cons of gifting real estate versus passing it through an estate or trust. Every situation is unique, and the right strategy can protect both your legacy and your loved ones' financial future.

The eviction process in Michigan involves more than simply asking a tenant to leave—it requires strict adherence to legal procedures, from serving the proper notice to filing in court and, if necessary, obtaining and enforcing a judgment of possession. Missteps can delay the process or result in costly legal setbacks. At Schuitmaker Moraitis, we bring clarity and strategy to what can often be a tense and emotional situation. Our team offers knowledgeable, results-driven guidance. We tailor our approach to your specific circumstances, always with a focus on protecting your interests and achieving efficient resolution.

If you have a child or family member with a disability, planning for their future care and financial security is likely one of your biggest concerns. A Special Needs Trust (SNT) allows you to set aside money or assets for their benefit without jeopardizing their eligibility for essential government benefits like SSI or Medicaid. Unlike a direct inheritance, which can disqualify them from these programs, a properly structured SNT ensures they can receive support in addition to public benefits—not instead of. Whether you're thinking ahead for a minor child or an adult loved one, this type of trust can provide peace of mind that your care doesn’t end with you. It’s one of the most compassionate tools in estate planning—and one of the most important for families facing lifelong needs.

Drafting your own estate plan might seem like a simple way to save money, but even small mistakes can have big consequences. Online forms often miss critical legal requirements, leading to invalid documents, probate delays, or unintended outcomes. Estate planning is about more than paperwork—it’s about making sure your wishes are clearly and legally protected. An experienced attorney at Schuitmaker Moraitis Law can help ensure everything is done right, so your loved ones aren’t left dealing with costly complications later.

At Schuitmaker Moraitis Law, we regularly assist business owners with the legal side of stock transfers and ownership changes. Whether it’s due to a partner leaving, the sale of shares, a corporate restructuring, or even the dissolution of a company, these transitions require careful planning and proper documentation to protect everyone involved. We work closely with our clients to draft or review stock transfer agreements, update corporate records, and ensure compliance with state and federal regulations. These moments of change can feel overwhelming, but with our legal guidance, they can be handled smoothly and efficiently. 

At Schuitmaker Moraitis Law, we pride ourselves on making the estate planning process smooth, efficient, and personalized. From start to finish, our team is committed to turning around your complete estate plan in just 3–5 weeks on average. We begin with an in-depth consultation to understand your goals and family dynamics, then move swiftly to draft your documents with precision and care. After a thorough review and any needed revisions, we finalize your plan with a signing meeting—ensuring everything is legally sound and tailored to your wishes. Our streamlined process keeps things moving without sacrificing quality or attention to detail.

A conservatorship is a legal arrangement where a court appoints a responsible person or organization (the conservator) to manage the financial and/or personal affairs of someone who can no longer do so themselves due to incapacity. These are often used for elderly individuals with dementia or adults with severe disabilities, but can be helpful in a number of other scenarios as well. While conservatorships provide essential protection, they also come with limitations on personal freedoms, making them a serious legal step. If you’re considering a conservatorship for a loved one, consulting the Attorney's at Schuitmaker Moraitis Law can help you navigate the process and explore the best options.

Facing an eviction—whether as a landlord or tenant—can be stressful and confusing. The process involves legal steps, including notices, court filings, and potential hearings, all of which must be handled correctly to avoid costly mistakes. That’s where the legal team at Schuitmaker Moraitis Law comes in. Our experienced attorneys guide landlords through proper eviction procedures to protect their property and ensure compliance with the law. We also help tenants understand their rights and options if they’re facing eviction. Whether you need to initiate an eviction or defend against one, we provide clear, strategic legal support to help you navigate the process smoothly. Reach out today to protect your rights and get the legal guidance you need.