According to the World Health Organization, people worldwide are living longer. As a result of plentiful food supplies, improving healthcare options, and modern technological conveniences, most people can expect to live into their sixties and beyond. Every country in the world is experiencing a growth of older people. In 2020, the number of people aged…
As a wise consumer, you will soon be meeting with an attorney to discuss an estate plan and when you do it is likely you will discuss the use of a trust. A living trust is a legal arrangement you establish during your lifetime to protect assets and direct distribution after your death. It is…
“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…
“We in America do not have government by the majority. We have government by the majority who participate.” Thomas Jefferson Hopefully we all agree that older Americans are important to our society, but some say the role older Americans play in both government and society must increase if we are to remain a wonderful beacon…
This article continues our examination of the guardianship and conservatorship process in Missouri. We pick up the process after the adjudication hearing is held… If the Petitioner proves by a preponderance of the evidence that the Respondent is incapacitated or disabled, or both, the court will seek to determine the degree of supervision necessary for…
A guardianship proceeding is a legal process of determining a person’s capacity and the ability he or she has to make decisions regarding his or her health, safety and welfare. The person at issue is generally referred to as the Respondent until a final determination is made. Once he or she is determined to be…
This is the first of a three-part series discussing important legal topics relating to vehicle accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, approximately 900 Missourians die in vehicle crashes each year so it is a topic worth exploring and I hope you find it informative. Of course, a much higher number of Missourians…
Is it a criminal act in Missouri to leave an animal unattended in a hot or cold car? Is it a criminal act in Missouri to break into a vehicle to save an animal from a hot or cold car? Who among us may break into a vehicle to save an animal without fear of…
Controversial as it may be, the question should be asked…is it wise for Missouri Seniors to own pets? According to a 2011 Harris Poll, 62% of Americans own a pet. Estimates published by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) indicate there are a staggering 70-80 million dogs and 74-96 million cats owned in the United…
“A man should not leave this earth with unfinished business. He should live each day as if it was a pre-flight check. He should ask each morning, am I prepared for lift-off?” Diane Frolov and Andrew Scheider, Northern Exposure, All is Vanity, 1991. According to the legal resource FindLaw.com, approximately 55% of American do not…
