Our Mission

Eyes on Probate exists to expose corruption in the probate court system, empower families affected by guardianship and trust abuse, and fight for laws that protect—not exploit—the elderly and people with disabilities.

We believe no one should lose their rights, their home, or their dignity simply because they grew old, became ill, or had a disability. Through advocacy, education, and community monitoring, we hold probate courts accountable and help families navigate a system that too often works against them.

Our Vision

A probate system that honors human dignity, protects the vulnerable, prioritizes family, and is transparent, ethical, and accountable to the public it serves.

We envision a world where no one is stripped of their autonomy without due process. Where laws are enforced fairly, and those who abuse power—whether they’re judges, guardians, or trustees—are held responsible.

Our Story

My name is Melissa Edwards, MSW, MBA, JM, JD, and I founded Eyes on Probate after my family was devastated by the very system that was supposed to protect us.

My sister was placed under an abusive guardianship despite her ability to care for herself with family support. What followed was over a decade of trauma: emotional harm, defamation, financial exploitation, loss of rights, and ultimately, the death of our mother—who died heartbroken and silenced by the court. Our trust in the legal system was shattered, while those who caused harm—judges, public guardians, and attorneys—profited and remained protected.

From my experience, many of the individuals in this system appear to derive power and satisfaction from harming those who can’t fight back—people with disabilities, elders, and those who advocate for them. This isn’t just our story. It’s happening across the country.

What This Fight Is Really About

Probate abuse isn’t just a legal problem. It’s a human rights crisis. It’s a civil rights issue. It’s happening in states like Michigan, Florida, California, New York, and others—and it can happen to anyone. Live long enough, and you risk being placed under court control—even if you’re competent and have supportive family.

This system punishes people for aging or having disabilities. It strips them of independence and life savings under the guise of “help,” often isolating them and misusing court power to enrich others.

Who I Am

I’ve been my sister’s caregiver for over 20 years. I hold a:

• Master of Social Work (MSW)
  
  

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  
  

• Master of American Legal Studies (JM)
  
  

• Juris Doctor (JD)
  
  

I’m currently preparing for the Michigan Bar Exam and plan to open a law firm focused on:

• Elder Law
  
  

• Probate & Trust Litigation
  
  

• Disability Rights
  
  

• Civil Rights
  
  

• Consumer Protection
  
  

• Legal Malpractice
  
  

Each of these areas is critical to addressing the corruption and abuse we’ve seen in the probate system—and ensuring that future families don’t have to go through what mine did.

The Change We’re Fighting For

From forced guardianships to sealed courtrooms and unchecked exploitation, the system is broken—but change is possible.

Visit our Legislative Reform page to learn about the new laws, amendments, and enforcement measures we’re pushing for. Together, we can build a fairer, more just probate system.