Norman E. Richards

Norman E. Richards is a partner at CMDA Law in Livonia, Michigan, where he concentrates his practice on elder law, estate and trust litigation, estate planning and probate. His practice also serves businesses and nonprofit organizations. He assists with entity formation, corporate formalities, business sales and succession planning and advises nonprofit boards on their corporate and fiduciary responsibilities.

Mr. Richards designs customized estate plans tailored to each client's circumstances, whether the client owns a family business, is a senior adult preparing for long-term care needs or is a parent seeking to secure the future of a child with special needs. His services extend from the initial consultation through the preparation of wills, trusts and powers of attorney, and include assistance with funding trusts and correctly designating beneficiaries on life insurance policies and retirement accounts.

In the area of elder law, Mr. Richards offers families thoughtful, compassionate guidance on planning for long-term care in the home, in assisted living or in a nursing home. He helps clients make the most of their financial resources by pursuing eligibility for Medicaid, VA Aid and Attendance, and other forms of assistance.

Mr. Richards also advises families of individuals with disabilities, creating specialized trusts and related documents that provide for a loved one's care while preserving eligibility for government benefits. When disputes or administrative needs arise, he represents clients in probate court, including proceedings to establish guardianships and conservatorships and to enforce wills and trusts. He counsels surviving family members through the administration of trusts and estates, handling probate procedures, estate tax returns and representation before the IRS when necessary.

An academic scholar, Mr. Richards earned his Juris Doctor from Wayne State University Law School in 1996 and holds a Bachelor of Arts magna cum laude from Free Will Baptist Bible College, earned in 1990. Guided by a commitment to offering practical legal solutions during some of life's most difficult moments, he helps individuals and families protect what matters most and navigate transitions with dignity.