202402.14
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Navigating Probate Disputes: Understanding the Complexities and Resolving Conflicts

Yes, probate is necessary unless prior to death the decedent established an estate plan that caused him or her to avoid owning property that must be administered through probate. Once an estate is opened or created in the county where the decedent last resided, probate disputes often arise during the administration of a deceased person’s…

202401.31
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Unmarried people should know the importance of a thorough estate plan

Preparing for the end of your life is one of those things you know you should do, but have you done it? According to a recent survey by Caring.com, a senior living referral service, only 4 in 10 American adults have a Last Will and Testament or a living trust. Maybe you are one of…

202312.03
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Important Payable on Death and Transfer on Death Beneficiary Insights for Missouri Seniors

By now you should be considering the establishment of an estate plan. Yes you…even you need an estate plan. While the term “estate” may sound ostentatious and unnecessary to many, the truth is every Missouri senior adult can benefit from an estate plan regardless of their wealth. An estate plan simply communicates the grantor’s wishes…

202211.23
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Preparing a loved one for a nursing home

The challenge of placing a loved one in a nursing home or residential care facility is a topic none of us look forward to facing.  Often, those moments are made all the more difficult when we recognize that our loved one requires a higher level of round-the-clock care that we are not able or qualified…

202210.25
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Update your estate plan following divorce

Following any dissolution of marriage, a wise person updates their estate plan.  This step is particularly important if there are children or assets involved.  Approximately one-half of marriages in the United States end in divorce, and for most people involved, it is one of the worst experiences of their lives.  As a result, many participants…

202208.04
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“Per stirpes” or “per capita” – you better know the difference

As you begin the process of establishing an estate plan, there are many important decisions you and your attorney will make. Arguably, one of the most important decisions involves identifying who will receive your estate assets and in what manner you want assets to pass when you die. Whether you create a revocable living trust,…

202206.30
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Tips for Seniors Choosing Contractors

Legal disputes with contractors occur often and in some instances these disputes can involve your most expensive asset…your home.  Liens and encumbrances involving contractors can be avoided if you choose contractors wisely.  The choice of a reputable contractor is especially important for those on limited budgets, pensions and those receiving state and federal subsidies. The…

202204.13
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Senior adult abuse prevention 101

This article is written with senior adults, their family members, and their loved ones in mind because the signs of elder abuse are difficult to detect by the senior adult and even more difficult to detect by their loved ones and family members who have limited access or infrequent contact with the senior adult.  A…

202011.30
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Who decides what happens to your human remains?

“Our new Constitution is now established, and has an appearance that promises permanency; but in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Benjamin Franklin, in a letter to Jean-Baptiste Le Roy, 1789. Benjamin Franklin was correct. Death is inevitable for all of us. As a result, each Missourian should…

202008.21
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Estate planning failures of the rich and famous

The establishment of a solid estate planning package is essential, even for the rich and famous. Although adored by fans and showered with swag at ceremonies like the Oscars, celebrities as a whole seem no different than the average American when it comes to making estate planning mistakes. Just like many people who lack celebrity…