# Cornerstone Legal PLLC

> Building your foundation. Building your confidence.


## Posts

- [How to Choose the Right Personal Representative for Your Michigan Estate Plan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-to-choose-the-right-personal-representative-for-your-michigan-estate-plan/): Your personal representative manages your estate after you pass. Learn how to choose the right person, what the role involves, and what Michigan families should consider.
- [Estate Planning for Blended Families](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/estate-planning-for-blended-families/): Blended families face unique estate planning challenges. Learn how to protect your spouse, children, and stepchildren while reducing conflict and ensuring clear intentions. 
- [Start the Year Right: Why January Is the Perfect Time to Review Your Estate Plan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/start-the-year-right-why-january-is-the-perfect-time-to-review-your-estate-plan/): Learn why January is the ideal time to review your estate plan. See what documents to update, what life changes matter, and how a yearly check can protect your family and goals.
- [When to Change or Update Your Planning Documents](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/when-to-change-or-update-your-planning-documents/): Learn when to change or update your estate planning documents to keep your plan accurate and effective. Cornerstone Legal explains what situations require updates and when no changes are needed.
- [Top Ten Things to Do AFTER You Set Up Your Estate Plan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/top-ten-things-to-do-after-you-set-up-your-estate-plan/): Discover the top 10 steps to take after setting up your estate plan to protect your family, fund your trust, and keep your legacy secure.
- [The Heart of Your Plan: Choosing the Right People to Carry Out Your Wishes](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/the-heart-of-your-plan-choosing-the-right-people-to-carry-out-your-wishes/): When creating your estate plan, choosing the right people to act as your trustee, power of attorney, or guardian is just as important as the documents themselves. Here’s how to make confident, thoughtful choices.
- [Top Ten Things to Know If your Loved One Needs Medicaid](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/top-ten-things-to-know-if-your-loved-one-needs-medicaid/):  If your loved one needs Medicaid, here are the top ten things you need to know about eligibility, planning, and protecting assets. Learn how to navigate this emotional and complex process with confidence.
- [Nonprofits 101: How to Start a Nonprofit](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/nonprofits-101-how-to-start-a-nonprofit/): Here’s what you need to know to start a nonprofit in Michigan.
- [What is a Living Will/Advanced Medical Directive?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-is-a-living-will-advanced-medical-directive/): When it comes to caring for your loved ones, making decisions about your own health—especially in times of crisis—is one of the most selfless acts you can take. A Living Will, also known as an Advanced Medical Directive, is a legal document that gives your family and doctors clear guidance about your healthcare wishes if you’re ever unable to speak for yourself. It’s more than a piece of paper—it’s a heartfelt plan for peace of mind. A Loving Complement to Your Healthcare Power of Attorney Many people are familiar with a Healthcare Power of Attorney (POA), which allows you to […]
- [Why Prepaying For Your Funeral Is a Smart Choice](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/why-prepaying-for-your-funeral-is-a-smart-choice/): Prepaying for your funeral is a thoughtful way to put your wishes into action while easing the burden on your family later.
- [Land Contracts 101: Everything You Need to Know](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/land-contracts-101-everything-you-need-to-know/): Land contracts are often used as an alternative to traditional mortgages. They can offer unique opportunities and considerations for both buyers and sellers.
- [A Guide to Buying and Selling Your Business](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/a-guide-to-buying-and-selling-your-business/): Buying or selling your business is a major financial and emotional decision. Let’s explore key considerations and legal concepts you need to be familiar with.
- [Deeds 101: Everything You Need to Know About Property Transfers](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/deeds-101-everything-you-need-to-know-about-property-transfers/): Learn how understanding deeds and property transfers can protect your investments and simplify ownership transitions. Get expert advice from Cornerstone Legal today.
- [Understanding the Portability Election and Disclaimers With a Credit Shelter Trust ](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/understanding-the-portability-election-and-disclaimers-with-a-credit-shelter-trust/): Ensure your family's financial security and protect your legacy with the portability election. This powerful estate planning tool can provide significant benefits for your loved ones.
- [What Is a Credit Shelter Trust?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-is-a-credit-shelter-trust/): Learn how a Credit Shelter Trust can protect your assets, minimize estate taxes, and preserve your legacy. Discover the benefits, who it’s for, and how to set one up with expert guidance from Cornerstone Legal.
- [Understanding Protective and Dynasty Trusts](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/understanding-protective-and-dynasty-trusts/): Understanding the intricacies of protective and dynasty trusts can be invaluable. In this blog, we'll explore what these trusts are and how they can serve your long-term financial goals. 
- [How to Protect and Manage Your Social Media Accounts After You Are Gone](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-to-protect-and-manage-your-social-media-accounts-after-you-are-gone/): This guide will walk you through the steps to set up a legacy contact on Facebook. Additional instructions are provided for deleting other platforms. 
- [What are Letters of Authority?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-are-letters-of-authority/): Navigating the probate administration process can be overwhelming to think about, especially if you expected to avoid probate court altogether or believed that your loved one’s Will provided you with all of the power and authority you needed.  Understanding how Letters of Authority are issued can give you power and authority and give you confidence to handle administration easily. Do you need a Letter of Authority? Contact Cornerstone Legal Today! Understanding what Letters of Authority are Letters of Authority are the key legal documents issued by local probate court offices once a probate estate is opened.  While your loved one’s […]
- [Do You Need a Lawyer for a Will in Michigan? ](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/do-you-need-a-lawyer-for-a-will-in-michigan/):  In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore whether you need a lawyer to draft your will, the benefits of professional legal advice, and practical steps to create a legally sound document. 
- [Should I Write My Own Will?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/should-i-write-my-own-will/): Writing your own will -  if it isn’t set up correctly it could cost your loved ones time, money, and stress in the long run. 
- [Estate Planning for Millennials: Securing Your Future Today](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/estate-planning-for-millennials-securing-your-future-today/): Learn about the importance of estate planning for millennials and how it can help secure your future. Start taking steps today to protect your assets and loved ones. 
- [How Does a Divorce Affect My Estate Plan?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-does-a-divorce-affect-my-estate-plan/): Whether you're recently divorced, in the process, or want to prepare for all eventualities, understanding how such an event alters your existing estate planning is crucial.
- [Estate and Inheritance Taxes: An Essential Guide](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/estate-and-inheritance-taxes-an-essential-guide/): Estate and inheritance taxes often confuse beneficiaries and executors. Here is a simple guide to understand the difference.   
- [What is the Corporate Transparency Act?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-is-the-corporate-transparency-act/): Don't ignore the new federal Corporate Transparency Act. This impacts your business. 
- [Are You A Victim of Fraud or a Hoax?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/are-you-a-victim-of-fraud-or-a-hoax/):  If you have become a victim of fraud or a hoax, there are steps you can take to protect yourself from further harm. 
- [How to Protect Yourself from Common Frauds and Hoaxes](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-to-protect-yourself-from-common-frauds-and-hoaxes/): It's important to stay informed about common frauds and hoaxes. This article discusses some of the most prevalent scams today so you can be informed. 
- [Choosing the Right Trustee for Your Family](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/choosing-the-right-trustee-for-your-family/):  If you are struggling with the decision of who to appoint as the Successor Trustee of your Living Trust, exploring the option of using a Professional Trustee might be the right path.
- [What Are Ladybird Deeds? ](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-are-ladybird-deeds/): A Ladybird Deed is a legal document that allows you to retain ownership of your property during your lifetime while also naming a beneficiary who will automatically inherit the property upon your passing. 
- [Protecting Your Legacy With an Estate Plan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/protecting-your-legacy-with-an-estate-plan/): Are you protecting your legacy with an estate plan? Here are 6 easy steps you can complete to ensure your information is protected. 
- [Gifting Through Your Estate Plan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/gifting-through-your-estate-plan/): Gifting through your estate plan is one way to share your resources with the people and organizations you care about.  
- [What Keeps You Up At Night? Estate Planning Questions](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-keeps-you-up-at-night-estate-planning-questions/): Setting up a solid estate plan that provides you with asset protection, probate avoidance, and incapacity planning will allow you to rest easy at night.
- [Creating a Pet Trust in Michigan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/creating-a-pet-trust-in-michigan/): A Pet Trust is the best way to ensure that your pets are looked after and provided for after you’re gone.
- [An Introduction to the Probate Process in Michigan](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/an-introduction-to-the-probate-process-in-michigan/): Here is a brief introduction to the probate process in Michigan so you know what to expect and how to avoid it so you can have peace of mind during a difficult time.
- [Power of Attorney Package for Young Adults](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/power-of-attorney-package-for-young-adults/): To help ease the transition into adulthood and provide some extra peace of mind, you may want to consider obtaining a power of attorney package for your new young adult. 
- [How to Set Up Charitable Giving Within a Living Trust](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-to-set-up-a-charitable-giving-within-a-living-trust/): Charitable Giving within a living trust can provide an opportunity to continue a legacy of giving that you have practiced during your lifetime. 
- [What is a Special Needs Trust?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-is-a-special-needs-trust/): A Special Needs Trust is a way to provide for your loved one who is on needs-based government benefits without the threat of losing those same benefits and resources.
- [What Happens to Your Property When You Pass Away?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-happens-to-your-property-when-you-pass-away/): Are you wondering what happens to your property when you pass away? Who gets it? How will it be distributed?
- [Incapacity Planning Basics](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/incapacity-planning-basics/): When creating an Estate Plan be sure it includes Incapacity Planning. Every Estate Plan will have either a Living Trust or Will as its foundation.
- [What is a Power of Attorney?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-is-a-power-of-attorney/): What is a Power of Attorney and when does it work? It's a document that allows someone you have appointed to handle your personal, health and financial matters, if and when you become incapacitated.
- [What type and amount of life insurance are best for your needs?](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/what-type-and-amount-of-life-insurance-are-best-for-your-needs/): Are you thinking about getting life insurance? Not sure what type and amount of life insurance is best for your needs?
- [Estate Planning Mistakes and Myths](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/estate-planning-mistakes-and-myths/): Here are 7 Estate Planning Mistakes and Myths to be aware of as you organize your assets.
- [How a Living Trust will Secure Your Estate](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/how-a-living-trust-will-secure-your-estate/): It's important to avoid Probate Administration of your estate and secure it with a Living Trust. 
- [Financial and Healthcare Powers of Attorney for New Adults/College Students](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/financial-and-healthcare-powers-of-attorney-for-new-adults-college-students/): Bet you never thought about the importance of Financial and Healthcare Powers of Attorney for college students. As your new adult sets out on their new adventure, as a parent you will surely still watch out for him or her. 
- [Reasons Why Joint Ownership is not a Smart Estate Planning Strategy](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/reasons-why-joint-ownership-is-not-a-smart-estate-planning-strategy/): Examples of Joint Ownership Gone Wrong  Here are a couple unfavorable situations that may arise with joint ownership as an estate planning practice.
- [Create a Will and Avoid Probate Court](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/create-a-will-and-avoid-probate-court/): Creating a Will does not automatically result in avoiding Probate Court, but that’s what I'm here for

## Pages

- [Beth Wagner](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/beth-wagner/): Legal Assistant
- [Privacy Policy](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/privacy-policy/): Cornerstone Legal Privacy Policy At Cornerstone Legal, PLLC (“Cornerstone Legal”), we respect your privacy and are committed to protecting the information you share with us. This policy describes the types of information we may collect from you or that you may provide when you visit our website or otherwise communicate with us, as well as our practices for collecting, using, maintaining, protecting, and disclosing that information. Please read this policy carefully to understand our policies and practices regarding your information and how we will treat it. 1. HOW THIS POLICY APPLIES This policy applies to information we collect: • On […]
- [Stacy Carstensen](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/stacy-carstensen/): Legal Assistant
- [Ryan Hofstetter](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/ryan-hofstetter/): Firm Administrator
- [Katrina Hofstetter](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/katrina-hofstetter/): Attorney at Law
- [Real Estate Planning](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/real-estate-planning/): Planning for your Real Estate Investments Whether you are looking to protect your home, family cottage, or other real estate investment, we offer a variety of planning services. Warranty Deed A Warranty Deed transfers ownership immediately and offers protections and guarantees to the new owner. Quit Claim Deed A Quit Claim Deed transfers ownership immediately, but offers no protections or guarantees for the new owner.  This deed is often used among family members. Ladybird Deed A Ladybird Deed allows the current owner to retain ownership, but also name a beneficiary to their property upon their passing.  This deed is not […]
- [Our Team](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/team/): Katrina Hofstetter Attorney at Law Ryan Hofstetter Firm Administrator Stacy Carstensen Legal Assistant BethWagner Legal Assistant
- [Media](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/media/): Media Stay up to date with our videos and articles covering estate planning, business planning, and other administrative legal topics. Our goal is to provide you with current information to educate you on various legal topics and help you plan for your family and future. Subscribe to our YouTube channel for regular updates and insights that simplify estate planning topics. Don’t miss out—join us today! View Our Channel https://youtu.be/s6pV06VTJ_4https://youtu.be/ZDcK8SV6NGwhttps://youtu.be/uJdRyU8D7ushttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4u_7PQJJQNQhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAPyddFVJBk Articles Cooley Law School Spotlight: Katrina Hofstetter Meet Katrina Hofstetter – CanvasRebel Magazine Meet a Mom: Katrina Hofstetter, Cornerstone Legal PLLC – Greater Lansing Area Moms Lansing Mom’s Local Love Spotlight […]
- [Blog](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/blog/)
- [Contact](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/contact/): SIGNUP FOR MY E-NEWSLETTER By providing a telephone number and submitting the form, you are consenting to be contacted by SMS text message and agreeing to our Privacy Policy. Message frequency may vary. Message and data rates may apply. Reply STOP to opt out of further messaging. Reply HELP for more information. Cornerstone Legal PLLC Katrina N. Hofstetter Attorney at Law P.O. Box 9 Dimondale, MI 48821 Phone: 517–708–2222 Katrina@CornerstoneLegalPLLC.com Serving individuals, couples, families, and businesses throughout Michigan, virtually and in person.
- [Testimonials](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/testimonials/): Helping my clients build a foundation and their confidenceLearn how clients employ my legal services to address their planning needs, resolve their legal administrative issues, and change the way they view the attorney-client relationship. I’ve been putting off estate planning for years for a myriad of reasons… it’s depressing, not fun, confusing, and overwhelming. Katrina took all of those negatives and handled the planning process like the BOSS she is. If you know you need to make a plan, don’t wait for something to happen- leave your loved ones with a well thought out, step by step guide for what […]
- [FAQs](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/faqs/): Frequently Asked Questions Estate Planning QuestionsMany individuals have so many questions about Estate Planning that it can feel mentally debilitating to just begin a conversation about their concerns and options. Demystifying these concepts and options is one of my major goals when first sitting down with a client. You can start with information explaining what a Will and a Living Trust are on my Estate Planning page. How can a Will avoid Probate? You can avoid Probate with a Will if you add joint owners on your accounts, designate beneficiaries on your accounts, and/or sign a Ladybird Deed for your […]
- [Resources](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/resources/): Estate Planning Estate Planning Client Intake Form – Single Estate Planning Client Intake Form – Couple Important Instructions After the Death of Your Loved One Michigan Property Transfer Affidavit Michigan Principal Residence Exemption Michigan Request to Rescind Principal Residence Smokeball Communicate Instructions (secure client portal) “A Good Goodbye” TedX Talk by Gail Rubin Business Planning Business Planning Client Intake Form Business Entity Type Flow Chart Michigan business entity name search Corporations Online Filing System (COFS) IRS tax information for businesses U.S. Small Business Administration Trust Administration Trust Administration Client Intake Form Taxpayer Identification Number Application Probate Administration Probate Administration Client […]
- [Plans & Fees](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/plans-fees/): Estate Planning Services I believe in being up front and transparent about my legal fees. Each estate plan is based upon my time investment to build a foundation for you. Each plan includes all planning sessions, phone calls and emails, the documents, a review/signing session, and any necessary follow up. At our initial planning session, I will outline a variety of additional planning options based upon you, your family, your concerns and wishes, and your assets. As we build your estate plan together, I will clarify whether there will be any additional fees involved. Additional estate planning services, such as […]
- [Probate Administration](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/probate-administration/): What is Probate Administration? Probate Administration is a process of collecting, managing, and distributing assets held by an individual when they pass away. This is not a private process and does involve the Probate Court and its rules and timeline. Every document and all information filed with the Probate Court is considered public record. I begin by holding a review session with the Personal Representative to outline each of their responsibilities and discuss how involved they would like me to be. I can provide instructions to the Personal Representative regarding each task they are responsible for, or the Personal Representative […]
- [Trust Administration](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/trust-administration/): What is Trust Administration? Trust Administration is the process of collecting, managing, and distributing the assets held in a Living Trust according to the wishes and instructions of the Trustmaker(s). This is a private process that does not involve the Probate Court or its rules and timeline. I begin by holding a review session with the Successor Trustee to outline each of their responsibilities and discuss how involved they would like me to be. I can provide instructions to the Successor Trustee regarding each task they are responsible for, or the Successor Trustee may retain me to work with them […]
- [Business Planning](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/business-planning/): Establishing a new businessThere are many factors to consider when deciding to start a new business, the first of which is the type of legal entity to form. The most common legal entities are Sole Proprietorships, Partnerships, Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), and Corporations. Generally, the process of forming a new legal entity involves deciding on a name, filing or registering the entity with the appropriate authorities, obtaining an Employer Identification Number , signing an agreement, opening a business account, and creating a record book of legal documents and information about the business. Sole Proprietorships Formation A Sole Proprietorship is not […]
- [Estate Planning](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/estate-planning/): Do I need Estate Planning?There is a common misconception that wills and trusts are antiquated or that estate planning is only for the wealthy. There is also a myth that estate planning is all about death and dying. However, estate planning can provide many short and long term benefits to people from all walks of life regardless of the value of their estate. Everyone has an “estate” – a car, home, furniture, personal property, checking account, savings account, life insurance, retirement accounts, or a business. There are many estate planning options for individuals, couples, families, and business owners, and it’s […]
- [Services](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/services/): My Services Estate Planning Business Planning Trust Administration Probate Administration Real Estate Planning
- [About Cornerstone Legal](https://cornerstonelegalpllc.com/): Cornerstone Legal Building your foundation. Building your confidence. Cornerstone Legal’s mission is to provide everyone with access to high-quality estate and business planning services and solutions that meet their needs and their budget. We aim to provide each of our clients with exceptional legal services that form a solid foundation for their future and provide security and peace of mind. We take pride in our ability to demystify estate planning and we strive to educate clients as we guide them through each decision they make.  We offer estate planning, trust administration, probate administration, and business planning for individuals, couples, families, […]


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