Growing up with a mom who has worked in the medical field for over 35 years, I know of the sacrifice and struggle that Michigan physicians face on a constant basis. They are constantly targets of malpractice lawsuits as well as other legal actions such as employee lawsuits for sexual harassment, unfair termination and discrimination; and business and practice-related litigation. And it seems that Physicians are targeted for every ill-conceived investment idea. Yet they sacrifice their time and expertise to help care for others. It is truly a noble profession.
Do they deserve to be in these cross hairs? I sure don’t think so. That’s why I’ve been working on better serving physicians and their families. Contrary to what many believe, asset protection planning is not all about offshore trusts and Swiss bank accounts. It is about adopting advanced planning strategies that legally place assets beyond the reach of creditors, discouraging lawsuits by lowering a physician’s financial profile so that they become a far less attractive target, and enhancing leverage in negotiations if a lawsuit is filed.
Know that although asset protection planning is confidential, it is NOT based on secrecy or fraudulent transfers, does NOT involved hiding assets and is NOT a tax dodge. Professional and personal convictions don’t allow such unethical (and potentially illegal) methods.
It is important for Michigan physicians to work with an estate planning attorney who is both well versed in these advanced planning strategies AND can understand the threats Michigan Physicians face and the constantly changing environment in which they work. Are you a Phyisican or do you know a Physician? Please share your thoughts.
Michael Lichterman is an attorney specializing in estate planning and helping provide peace of mind to families and businesses throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan. He specializes in Whole Family Wealth™ planning for professionals with minor children, doctors/physicians, nurses, lawyers, and the “sandwich generation” (caring for parents and children) – and does so from a Christian perspective. He takes the “counselor” part of attorney and counselor at law very seriously, and enjoys creating life long relationships with his clients – many of which have become great friends.