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Probate Judge Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Probate Litigation Attorney | Royal Oak, Michigan Do Work That Matters. Do you want to build your ... Sound judgment and the ability to identify and prioritize urgent or high-impact issues. * A ...

Trusts & Estates Attorney

Detroit, MI · On-site

$160K - $225K/yr

Manage probate matters, including court proceedings, asset valuation, debt settlement, and ... Strong judgment, attention to detail, and ability to manage sophisticated client matters ...

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Showing results 1-20

Probate Judge information

See Michigan salary details

$27K

$58.7K

$96.3K

How much do probate judge jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for probate judge in Michigan is $58,736.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,100.00 and $67,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a probate judge?

Probate judges are judicial officials who preside over matters related to the administration of estates, wills, trusts, and guardianships. Their primary responsibilities include ensuring that a deceased person's assets are distributed according to their will or state law, resolving disputes among heirs or beneficiaries, and appointing guardians or conservators when necessary. Probate judges also oversee the validity of wills and ensure that all legal procedures are followed during the probate process. They play a crucial role in protecting the rights of beneficiaries and creditors while maintaining the integrity of the probate system.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a probate judge, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Probate Judge, you need a Juris Doctor (JD) degree, bar admission, and extensive knowledge of probate law, estate administration, and court procedures. Familiarity with case management software, legal research databases, and electronic filing systems is typically required. Strong analytical reasoning, impartiality, and clear communication are crucial soft skills for making fair decisions and guiding courtroom proceedings. These competencies ensure that probate matters are resolved efficiently, ethically, and in accordance with the law.

What are some common challenges faced by probate judges in managing complex estates?

Probate Judges often encounter challenges when overseeing complex estates, such as resolving disputes among heirs, interpreting unclear or outdated wills, and ensuring all assets are properly identified and distributed according to the law. Managing large or contested estates can require extensive hearings, careful review of legal documents, and coordination with attorneys, accountants, and family members. Staying organized and impartial, as well as communicating clearly with all parties, is essential for effectively navigating these complexities.

What is the difference between Probate Judge vs Clerk of Court?

AspectProbate JudgeClerk of Court
Required CredentialsLegal education, bar admission, judicial appointment or electionLegal or administrative background, often elected or appointed
Work EnvironmentCourtroom, judicial chambers, courtroom proceedingsClerical office, court administration, record keeping
Employer/Industry UsageState or county courts, judicial systemCourts, government agencies, legal institutions

While both Probate Judges and Clerks of Court work within the judicial system, Probate Judges preside over estate and guardianship cases, making legal decisions. Clerks of Court handle administrative tasks like maintaining court records and managing filings. Both roles require familiarity with legal procedures, but Probate Judges have judicial authority, whereas Clerks of Court focus on court administration.

Does a probate judge need a law degree?

Yes, probate judges typically need a law degree and must be licensed attorneys. They often have experience in law and may need to pass judicial exams or meet specific state requirements to serve as a probate judge.

How do probate judges get their jobs?

Probate judges are typically elected by voters in their jurisdiction during local elections. Some jurisdictions may appoint judges through a merit-based selection process or a combination of appointment and election, often requiring candidates to meet specific legal qualifications and experience standards.

How to become a probate judge?

To become a probate judge, candidates typically need to be licensed attorneys with several years of legal experience. They must often run in judicial elections or be appointed, and may need to meet specific state requirements such as residency or age criteria. Strong knowledge of estate law and judicial procedures are essential for the role.
Infographic showing various Probate Judge job openings in Michigan as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $58,736 per year, or $28.2 per hour.

Probate Litigation Attorney

Royal Oak, MI • On-site

Ecruit
Recruiting and Staffing Services • 1 - 10 employees

$100K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 2 days ago


Job description

Probate Litigation Attorney | Royal Oak, Michigan 

Do Work That Matters. 


Do you want to build your litigation career doing work that has a meaningful impact on individuals and families? 

Do you thrive in a collaborative environment where attorneys work together, share ideas, and develop winning strategies? Are you looking for a growing law firm with a clear long-term vision, strong momentum, and an award-winning workplace culture?

If you are an energetic, driven litigator who enjoys solving complex problems, advocating for clients, and taking ownership of your cases, The Probate Pro may be the place for you. 

The Probate Pro, a division of the Darren Findling Law Firm, PLC, is a growing probate, estate planning, elder law, and probate litigation firm with offices in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. We are seeking a Litigation Attorney to join our team in Royal Oak, Michigan. 


This is an opportunity to handle substantive litigation matters, appear regularly in court, develop case strategy, and manage cases from initial client contact through resolution—all while working alongside an experienced and collaborative team of attorneys. 


What You’ll Do 

As a member of our Litigation Department, you will take an active role in all phases of probate litigation, including: 

  • Manage a caseload of contested probate and related litigation matters from intake through resolution. 
  • Develop case strategy and collaborate with other members of the Litigation Department on complex legal and factual issues. 
  • Draft pleadings, motions, briefs, discovery requests and responses, settlement documents, and other litigation materials. 
  • Conduct legal research and prepare persuasive written arguments. 
  • Represent clients at hearings, conferences, mediations, evidentiary proceedings, and other court appearances throughout Metro Detroit and, when necessary, elsewhere in Michigan. 
  • Communicate directly with clients and provide practical, understandable legal guidance during what can often be difficult family circumstances. 
  • Set realistic expectations and maintain timely, responsive client communication. 
  • Work collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, and support staff to move cases efficiently toward resolution. 
  • Take ownership of deadlines, case preparation, and follow-through. 


What We’re Looking For 

The ideal candidate will have: 

  • Active license to practice law in the State of Michigan and be in good standing. 
  • Approximately 2–4+ years of litigation experience, preferably involving probate, trusts and estates, fiduciary disputes, real estate, or another related area of civil litigation. 
  • Meaningful experience handling litigation matters and appearing in court. 
  • Strong legal research, analysis, and persuasive writing skills. 
  • Excellent oral advocacy and interpersonal communication skills. 
  • Ability to independently manage cases, competing deadlines, and client expectations. 
  • Strong attention to detail and exceptional organizational skills. 
  • Sound judgment and the ability to identify and prioritize urgent or high-impact issues. 
  • A collaborative mindset and willingness to seek and provide input on litigation strategy. 
  • Ability to adapt to change while maintaining a constructive, solutions-oriented approach. 
  • Ability and willingness to travel for court appearances throughout Michigan when necessary. 
  • Commitment to The Probate Pro’s core values. 


Additional Experience We Value 

While not required, we are particularly interested in candidates who have: 

  • Probate, trust, estate, guardianship, conservatorship, or fiduciary litigation experience. 
  • Experience with real estate disputes, including quiet-title actions. 
  • Deposition, mediation, evidentiary hearing, or trial experience. 
  • An existing book of business or established professional referral relationships. 


Why Join The Probate Pro? 

We believe great attorneys do their best work when they are challenged professionally, supported by their team, and recognized for the value they bring. 

Our attorneys have the opportunity to handle meaningful matters, develop professionally, collaborate with experienced colleagues, and build long-term careers within a growing firm. 


Our benefits and perks include: 

  • Competitive compensation. 
  • Medical insurance with employer contribution. 
  • Dental and vision coverage. 
  • Health Savings Account options. 
  • 401(k) plan. 
  • Paid holidays. 
  • Paid time off. 
  • Payment of Michigan Bar dues and certain professional association memberships. 
  • Continuing legal education and professional development opportunities. 
  • Collaborative attorney and staff environment. 
  • Frequent firm lunches, celebrations, social events, and other opportunities to connect as a team. 
  • A growing organization with a defined long-term vision and opportunities for attorneys who want to grow with us. 


About The Probate Pro 

The Probate Pro is a division of the Darren Findling Law Firm, PLC, a growing law firm headquartered in Royal Oak, Michigan, with offices in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida. 

Our team includes approximately 25 attorneys and more than 50 employees who are committed to helping individuals and families navigate probate, estate planning, elder law, and related legal matters. 

We work hard, enjoy working together, and believe culture matters. 

One of our core values is “Tell It Like It Is.” We believe in straightforward communication—with our clients and with one another. We honor our commitments, approach difficult problems creatively, and work together to achieve great results. 


If you are looking for a litigation position where you can take ownership of your cases, get into the courtroom, continue developing as an advocate, and become an important part of a growing firm, we would like to meet you. 

Apply today to join The Probate Pro’s Litigation Team. Remote Candidates welcome to apply!


The Darren Findling Law Firm, PLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants and employees without regard to any characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.