Suzanne (Suzy) R. Fanning's Profile Image

Ann Arbor Probate Litigation Attorney

Phone: 734-669-3838
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Attorney Suzanne (Suzy) R. Fanning brings over 20 years of legal expertise and knowledge to her practice, which concentrates solely in the area of probate law, including probate litigation. Suzy practiced for many years as an accomplished general litigator, but decided to narrow her focus to probate when she realized that the valuable pretrial and courtroom skills she had developed over years of practice could be put to use helping the elderly, vulnerable adults and families navigate challenging life, end of life and death events.

Suzy understands how upsetting the loss or incapacity of a loved one can be. She knows she cannot spare her clients the grief that comes along with loss, but wants to put their minds at rest about legal concerns so they can focus on their own needs and those of their families. Having seen the impact on clients of poorly-crafted estate plans, Suzy also offers estate planning services designed to minimize the risk of future disputes.

For contested probate matters, guardianships, and conservatorships, it is essential to have an attorney who is familiar with the law and comfortable in the courtroom. Suzy enjoys being able to provide experienced advocacy for her clients and being able to support them through an unfamiliar, sometimes overwhelming, process. She notes that many of her clients are from outside Michigan, and need an experienced Michigan attorney they can trust with local probate matters; it gives her great satisfaction to lift a burden of worry off of their shoulders.

A British immigrant, Suzy came to the United States to study law, and fell in love with the friendly, open nature of people in Michigan and the Midwest. When not practicing law, she enjoys gardening, cooking, and renovating a 19th century Victorian house with her husband, three daughters and an English Lab named Charlie.

Practice Areas

Education

  • Wayne State University Law School, J.D. (1996)
  • University of Bristol (England), B.A. cum laude (1991)

Admissions to Practice

  • Michigan

Professional Memberships and Affiliations

  • State Bar of Michigan
  • Washtenaw County Bar Association
    Probate and Estate Section (former co-chair)