Entries by Smith & Johnson

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What to Ask Before Hiring an Estate Planning Attorney

Since life can be unpredictable, it’s wise to take a proactive approach to estate planning. By making arrangements long before you actually need to, you’ll ensure your loved ones are taken care of no matter what happens. Of course, that’s assuming the arrangements you make are actually legally binding. The best way to guarantee as […]

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What to Ask Before Hiring a Child Custody Attorney

If you’re facing a custody battle, you shouldn’t turn to just anyone for legal guidance. When family time is at stake, it’s imperative to enlist help from a seasoned professional. Unfortunately, a lot of firms tout their family law experience, but not everyone is actually equipped to resolve complex custody disputes. As such, it can […]

The Dos & Don’ts of Writing a Last Will

The best time to write your will was the day you turned 18. Since most teenagers aren’t thinking about their mortality on their 18thbirthday, however, chances are you weren’t, either. Thankfully, the second best time to write your will is today. By making arrangements long before you actually need them, you’ll have peace of mind […]

How to Make Divorce Easier on Your Children

If you’re planning on ending your marriage, it’s only natural to worry about how the divorce will affect your children. While the transition will inevitably prompt a host of emotions—some of them undoubtedly negative—there are ways you can make the process easier on your kids. Let’s explore some of the most effective strategies below: 1. […]

5 Scenarios That Warrant a Review of Your Last Will

Since life is ultimately unpredictable, it’s wise to take a proactive approach to estate planning. You should consider drafting a last will and testament as soon as possible, for example, instead of waiting until you’ve reached old age. In doing so, you’ll be able to put certain protections in place that ensure your loved ones […]

3 FAQ About Seeking Custody in Michigan

When people who share children separate or divorce, they must devise an arrangement for handling all aspects of childrearing moving forward. Called a custody arrangement, this plan addresses everything from where the kids will live to how major decisions will be made on their behalf. If you’re planning on seeking custody in Michigan and you’re […]

Expungement Eligibility

Am I Eligible for Expungement in Michigan Under the New Law? If your criminal record has been holding you back, you may soon be in luck. Thanks to the “Clean Slate” initiative, up to 1 million Michiganders are going to have an easier time securing employment and housing in the near future by having their […]

Partial Settlement in Opioid Litigation for Marquette County

Smith & Johnson is proud of the role it played as counsel of record for Grand Traverse and Marquette counties. These two clients are projected to receive nearly 5MM in monies from the recent opioid settlement. S & J represents 36 counties and cities across Northern Michigan who collectively are projected to receive over 26MM […]

Different Types of Child Custody in Michigan

What Are the Different Kinds of Child Custody in Michigan? If you’re facing a child custody battle, you’re probably wondering what the final arrangement will look like. Who will have the kids when? And how will you and your ex handle major decisions on their behalf, like those regarding their education, medical care, or religious […]