Will U.S. ICE Detain My Client? Understanding the New Mandatory Detention Policies

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) recently expanded its interpretation of who can be detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). As of July 2025, under a broader reading of INA § 235(b), ICE now considers all “applicants for admission” subject to mandatory detention—even those without a criminal record.

Before this change, ICE typically reserved detention for individuals with criminal convictions, serious immigration violations, or national security concerns. Now, anyone who entered the U.S. without inspection may be detained without the right to a bond hearing.

This expansion has serious implications for foreign nationals living in the U.S. long-term, including those with families, jobs, and deep community ties. While DHS retains limited authority to grant parole in some situations, such releases are rare.

What You Can Do:

If you or someone you know entered the U.S. without inspection, they could be at risk for detention. Developing an “immigration action plan” — including a power of attorney, emergency contact list, and legal strategy — can help mitigate harm if ICE enforcement occurs.

Learn more about US ICE expanding mandatory detention policies here.

Protect Your Rights with an Experienced Ann Arbor Immigration Attorney

If you or a loved one may be subject to detention, don’t wait until it’s too late. An experienced Ann Arbor immigration attorney can evaluate your situation, explain your rights, and help you prepare a plan tailored to your circumstances. Contact our office today for a confidential consultation.

Simplifying Vehicle and Personal Item Transfers in Michigan Estates

Michigan’s probate law provides simplified methods for transferring certain assets when a loved one passes away, especially when the estate is considered “small.” This allows families to avoid the stress and delays of full probate court administration.

Transfer of Vehicles

If the total value of a decedent’s registered vehicles does not exceed $100,000, heirs may transfer titles without going through probate—provided there are no other assets requiring estate administration.

 

Transfer of Clothing and Personal Items

In some cases, a decedent’s clothing and up to $500 in cash can also be transferred without court involvement. Hospitals, nursing homes, morgues, or even police agencies can release these items directly to a spouse, child, or parent with proof of identification.

 

Learn more about navigating Michigan’s simplified probate process for small estates here.

 

Why Legal Guidance Matters

Even with these simplified options, disputes and documentation issues can arise. Our estate planning attorneys in Ann Arbor can help ensure the transfer process goes smoothly, protect heirs’ rights, and avoid unnecessary delays.

 

Get Started Today: Schedule Your Consultation

 

If you’re interested in learning more about estate planning, please contact an estate planning attorney in Ann Arbor at 734-665-4441.

 

The UIDDA and Out-of-State Testimony in Michigan Civil Cases

One of the most useful tools available in civil litigation in Washtenaw County is the Uniform Interstate Depositions and Discovery Act (UIDDA). Michigan—along with 47 other states and the District of Columbia—has adopted this law, which allows litigants to compel someone in another state to attend a deposition or produce documents.

However, the UIDDA stops short of authorizing subpoenas for trial testimony. The Michigan Court of Appeals has confirmed that while the UIDDA helps gather discovery, it cannot be used to force an out-of-state witness to appear in court. Because of this limitation, attorneys should obtain deposition testimony from out-of-state witnesses while discovery is still open.

 

Learn more about compelling the testimony of an out-of state witness at trial here.

 

Don’t Face Civil Litigation Alone—We Can Help You

If you’re dealing with complex procedural issues in civil litigation in Washtenaw County, the attorneys at Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels, P.C. can help. We have the experience to manage multi-state discovery, witness testimony, and trial preparation effectively. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Understanding Michigan’s Small Estate Probate Options

When a loved one passes away, the idea of navigating probate court can feel overwhelming. Luckily, Michigan law provides simplified probate procedures for small estates, which can save time, money, and stress for grieving families.

What Qualifies as a Small Estate?

Michigan allows certain estates with limited assets to bypass traditional probate. Depending on the type of property, heirs may be able to use simplified transfers with little or no court involvement.

 

Transfer by Affidavit

If an estate consists entirely of personal property, a successor can complete a Transfer by Affidavit to claim assets. This streamlined process avoids probate court and helps heirs access property more quickly.

 

Transfer of Wages and Benefits

Employers may also release unpaid wages or fringe benefits to a decedent’s heirs without probate court involvement—so long as there are no other assets requiring formal administration.

 

Learn more about navigating Michigan’s simplified probate process for small estates here.

 

Get Started Today: Schedule Your Consultation

 

Working with our estate planning attorneys in Ann Arbor can help you determine if these simplified options apply to your loved one’s estate. If you’re interested in learning more about estate planning, please contact us at 734-665-4441.

Out-of-State Witnesses in Civil Litigation: What You Need to Know

When it comes to civil litigation in Washtenaw County, witness testimony can make or break your case. However, securing  that testimony isn’t always easy—especially when witnesses live outside of Michigan. In civil cases, you generally cannot compel an out-of-state witness to appear and testify at trial unless they agree to do so voluntarily.

Michigan law allows local witnesses to be subpoenaed, but those who reside more than 100 miles away or live outside the United States are considered “unavailable witnesses.” In those situations, their deposition testimony can be used at trial instead. That means careful planning during discovery is essential to preserve important testimony before trial.

 

Learn more about compelling the testimony of an out-of state witness at trial here.

 

Don’t Face Civil Litigation Alone—We Can Help You

If you’re involved in civil litigation in Washtenaw County and need help navigating witness testimony or discovery procedures, contact Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels, P.C. Our experienced attorneys can help you prepare your case and protect your interests from start to finish.

How to Avoid Probate Disputes Over Personal Representative Appointments

Probate disputes often begin with a disagreement over who should serve as the personal representative. If the wrong person is appointed, it can lead to delays, family tension, and even litigation.

You can reduce the risk of conflict with proper estate planning. Michigan residents can avoid future objections by:

• Naming a qualified, trustworthy personal representative
• Choosing alternates in case your first choice is unavailable
• Discussing your decisions with loved ones in advance
• Including a “no contest” clause where appropriate

 

Learn more about who can object to a personal representative here.

 

An experienced estate planning attorney in Ann Arbor can draft a legally sound will and guide you in making choices that are less likely to be challenged in court.

 

🛡️ Want to protect your estate from future disputes? Contact Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels, P.C. to schedule your consultation today.

Who Can Legally Object to a Personal Representative in Michigan Probate?

When someone files to be appointed as a personal representative of an estate in Michigan, not everyone agrees with the choice. Fortunately, Michigan law gives “interested persons” the right to object. But who qualifies—and on what grounds?

Interested persons include heirs, beneficiaries, creditors, and others with a stake in the estate. They may object if the proposed representative is unqualified, biased, or improperly nominated. Common reasons for objection include felony convictions, conflicts of interest, or allegations of misconduct.

 

Learn more about who can object to a personal representative here.

 

If you’re considering objecting—or if someone is objecting to your appointment—don’t try to handle it alone. A knowledgeable estate planning attorney in Ann Arbor can help you 

navigate the legal process, protect your interests, and represent you in court if needed.

 

📞 Have questions about filing or defending an objection? Contact Pear Sperling Eggan & Daniels, P.C. today.