Frequently Asked Questions

Muskegon, MI Court Information

Where are court hearings held in Muskegon?

Court hearings are held at the Muskegon County’s 14th Circuit Court at 990 Terrace St, Muskegon, MI 49442. Here, you will be able to find paperwork for some of the services the lawyers at Bowen Law assist with, such as guardianship and probate. It is noted that employees of the circuit court are not attorneys, and therefore not allowed to provide legal advice

How do I file a lawsuit in Muskegon?

Lawsuits for monetary disputes of $6,000 or less are filed through the small claims court at the 60th District Court located at 990 Terrace Street, Muskegon, MI 49442. However, this court is used for those who do not require the benefits of an attorney. To file a larger case, consult with an attorney, like the professionals at Bowen Law. Your attorney will help you draft and file a complaint with the court. The complaint needs to then be served to the defendant. After the defendant responds, the process begins.

Business Law in Muskegon, MI

What is a business entity?

A legal business structure that allows companies to conduct business and also affords owners liability and asset protection.

Where do I apply for a business license in Muskegon?

Prior to obtaining a business license, you must have obtained an employer identification number (EIN) and registered your business name with the county clerk. If you’re selling products, you’ll need to get a sales tax license. Not all businesses require licenses in the state of Michigan. You can use Michigan states venture license search to find out more: https://www.michigan.gov/statelicensesearch/

How do I form a corporation in Michigan?

You can form a corporation by filing out the forms on Michigan state’s Corporations Online Filing System at https://www.michigan.gov/corpfileonline. The system will lead you through the process of entering your corporation name, choosing registered agents, directors, and filing articles of incorporation. Unlike with filing for a business license, a corporation name must include the words limited, incorporated, company, or their abbreviations. The state of Michigan restricts certain words from being used in corporation names. The full list is available at: https://www.michigan.gov/documents/lara/restrict_528154_7.pdf.

How do you register a business name in Michigan?

First, perform a federal trademark search, business entity, and domain search to make sure your business name is unique. Next, determine your business structure. Sole proprietorships and general partnerships must register with the county clerk. Business structures, such as corporations, LLCs, and limited partnerships, must filed with the Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Real Estate Law in Muskegon, MI

What is a deed?

The ownership instrument for a property in the form of a physical legal document.

What is a deed of trust?

A legal agreement in which a property title held by a trustee until the home’s loan is repaid. A deed of trust is form of security for a lender who has given to a borrower.

What are my tenant rights in Michigan?

Landlords must abide by the implied warranty of habitability, in which a safe dwelling that complies with codes must be provided to tenants. Landlords are also responsible for housing repairs, so long as they are not the fault of the tenant. Repairs must be made in a reasonable amount of time, or within 24 hours in case of emergency. In certain instances, Landlords are held accountable when tenants are injured by housing damage that was left unattended to.

Why would I need a real estate attorney?

Real estate transactions are not only complex, but costly. Real estate agents can guide you through the process of purchasing property, but having an attorney on your side affords you a safety net. Real estate attorneys aid with contract confusion, title searches, the intricacies of transferring property, as well as filing your extensive paperwork.

What are riparian rights in Michigan?

Landowners on waterfront property in Michigan have the right to utilize the water that their property borders or touches. This includes installing a dock that’s anchored to their land, anchoring a boat to their land, use of water for domestic purposes, and even the ownership of sand that’s accumulated on the property from shorelines.

Elder Law, Estate Planning, and Probate in Muskegon, MI

I’m a senior, do I need an elder law attorney?

Elder law attorneys assist with aspects of a senior citizen’s uncertain future, such as healthcare, Medicaid, social security, nursing home placement, as well as estate planning. Estate planning is especially important because drafting a legally binding will ensures that your wishes will be explicitly followed through. The attorneys at Bowen Law will work closely with you and your family to help you plan the next stage of your life.

What is a conservatorship?

When a judge appoints a person to care for and manage the financial assets of another person who is incapable of doing so because of physical or mental limitations.

How do I file for conservatorship in Muskegon, Michigan?

You can petition for conservatorship by filling out the proper petition form and filing with the county probate court, located at 990 Terrace Street, 5th Floor, Muskegon, MI 49442. The petition will be reviewed, the petitioner’s claims will be investigated, and, if accepted, a hearing will be scheduled.

What is an estate?

A person’s net worth, which is an amalgamation of their person belongings, properties owned, and finances.

When should I start my estate planning?

Estate planning can begin at any adult age. The idea of tragedy may be frightening, but planning ahead for your family’s security and future is important. For young adults, this includes naming beneficiaries for items such as retirement plans and insurance. For others, this may include creating a trust and setting up inheritance. Allow the experienced attorney’s at Bowen Law point you in the right direction when it comes to estate planning.

How do you write a will?

For complex wills, it’s best to contact an attorney for assistance. A DIY will that’s improperly written can result in invalidation of the will itself.

What does probate mean?

Probate is the legal process in which the validity of a will is determined.

Get In Touch

Let’s Work Together

BOWEN LAW OFFICES (231) 726-4484 1042 Terrace Street Muskegon, MI 49442