Firm Blog

The Gallagher Law Firm with offices in Lansing, Mt. Pleasant, Grand Rapids, and Detroit provides a variety of legal services across Michigan for corporate and individual clients. Our AV-rated, highly experienced attorneys offer responsive and efficient representation. Learn why our clients consider the Gallagher Law Firm to be a trusted, insightful and experienced partner for their legal needs.

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Controlling Attorney Fees

If you have a legal matter or project that requires the assistance of counsel, you may be concerned about the cost of attorney fees. However, it’s important to understand that hiring an attorney doesn’t require you to go above your financial mean… Read More
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Categories: Litigation
Succession planning and figurines with arrows.

Business Succession Planning

Most small business owners are justifiably proud of the business they have built or sustained. And they should be! Small businesses, including family businesses, are the lifeblood of the American economy. Many business owners devote their careers to… Read More
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Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Update: January 2, 2025

Amid ongoing litigation regarding beneficial ownership reporting, the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) quietly updated their website to state the following: “In light of a recent federal court order, reporting companies are not current… Read More
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Categories: Business Law
Pet owner stroking his old cat and dog together

Trusts for Pets

Establishing a pet trust as part of your estate plan will ensure that your companion animal is well cared for if you become unable to look after them because of death or disability. These types of trusts are explicitly allowed under Michigan law (MCL… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning
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Updating Your Estate Plan

Life is full of changes, and significant events such as marriages, divorces, births, deaths, and changes in financial circumstances can all impact your estate plan. While a comprehensive estate plan is a snapshot of your life at the time it was creat… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning
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Accredited Investors in Michigan

In Michigan, the definition of an accredited investor largely mirrors the federal definition provided by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). Michigan follows federal guidelines for who qualifies as an accredited investor — especially… Read More
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Categories: Business Law
Savings protection

What is an Asset Protection Trust?

An asset protection trust is a legal structure that is designed to shield assets from creditors, lawsuits, and other potential liabilities. These types of trusts are particularly useful for high-net-worth individuals or those who are in professions t… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning
Unpaid invoices, Financial Concept

Managing Delinquent Customers Before Resorting to Litigation

“Creditors have better memories than debtors.” – Benjamin Franklin Generally speaking, consumer debts are those debts that arise out of a contract made primarily for personal, family, or household purposes. While these debts can som… Read More
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Categories: Business Law
Client was listening to a lawyer advising, explaining the details of the proceeding

Naming an IRA as a Trust Beneficiary

When a trust is named as the beneficiary of an IRA (Individual Retirement Account), the trust is inherited by the account when the owner passes away. Naming an IRA as a beneficiary of a trust has significant estate planning, financial, and tax implic… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning
Senior couple writing will, inheritance and life insurance documents or contract with lawyer planning retirement. Pension fund, finance and financial investment with legal advisor for home mortgage

Property Held as "Tenants by the Entirety"

In Michigan, the concept of “tenants by the entirety” refers to a form of joint property ownership that is available only to married couples. This type of ownership has unique implications when it comes to protection against creditor clai… Read More
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Categories: Estate Planning