Michigan § 556.115 - Methods by which powers may be exercised by donees.

Full text of Michigan Michigan Compiled Laws § 556.115 — Methods by which powers may be exercised by donees., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 556.115. Methods by which powers may be exercised by donees.

Sec. 5.

(1) A power may be exercised by any donee capable of transferring the interest in property to which the power relates.

(2) A power may be exercised only by a written instrument that would be sufficient to pass the interest intended to be appointed if the donee were the owner of the interest. Unless otherwise contemplated in the creating instrument, a power may be exercised only by a written instrument that complies with the requirements, if any, of the creating instrument as to the manner, time, and conditions of the exercise of the power, except that a power exercisable only by deed is also exercisable by a written will executed as required by law.

(3) If the donor has authorized the power to be exercised by an instrument not sufficient in law to pass the appointive interest, the power is not void, but may be exercised by an instrument conforming to subsection (2).

(4) If consent of the donor or of any other person is required for the exercise of a power, the consent must be expressed in the instrument exercising the power or in a separate written instrument, signed in either case by the person whose consent is required. If any person whose consent is required dies or becomes legally incapable of consenting, the power may be exercised by the donee without the consent of that person unless the creating instrument, construed with regard to surrounding circumstances, manifests a contrary intent.

(5) When a power is vested in 2 or more persons, all must unite in its exercise; but if 1 or more of the donees dies, becomes incapable of exercising the power, or releases the power, the power may be exercised by the others, unless the creating instrument, construed with regard to surrounding circumstances, manifests a contrary intent.

(6) When a power is vested in 2 or more trustees, the trustees' coordination in the exercise of the power is governed by sections 7703 and 7815(3) of the MTC, MCL 700.7703 and 700.7815, unless the trust instrument manifests a contrary intent.

Source: official Michigan text · Last verified 2026-08-27

Frequently Asked Questions About Michigan § 556.115

What does Michigan Compiled Laws § 556.115 cover?

Section 556.115 ("Methods by which powers may be exercised by donees.") is part of the Michigan Compiled Laws, the codified statutory law of Michigan. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Michigan § 556.115?

A common citation format is "Michigan Compiled Laws § 556.115" (Michigan). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Michigan law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Michigan official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Michigan attorney.

How does Michigan § 556.115 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Michigan can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Michigan.