Lawyers have also played a dominant role in American politics. “The government of democracy is favorable to the political power of lawyers,” Alexis de Tocqueville wrote more than a century ago. Of the 56 signers of the Declaration of Independence, 25 were lawyers. In the mid-19th century, approximately 80 percent of the U.S. Congress were…
Finding a good probate attorney is an important task if you are dealing with the legal process of managing and distributing a deceased person’s estate. A probate attorney can help ensure that the process is handled smoothly, efficiently, and in accordance with state laws. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you find a suitable…
The handling and disposal of human remains in Missouri are governed by a combination of state laws and regulations, which aim to ensure public health, respect for the deceased, and the rights of families. This article provides an overview of the legal framework surrounding the disposal of human remains in Missouri, including burial, cremation, and…
In Missouri, if you die without a Last Will & Testament (will), your assets will be distributed according to state “intestacy” laws. In summary, those laws give your property to your closest relatives, beginning with your spouse and children. If you lack a spouse and children, your grandchildren or your parents will be next in…
If you read my monthly articles regularly, you know the cornerstone of any estate plan is a Last Will and Testament, (hereinafter, “Will”). But a Will has many limitations and should never stand alone as a plan for your future. The following are a few of the limitations for Wills: A Will does not completely…
Intestate succession refers to the legal process of distributing a deceased person’s assets when they have not left behind a valid will. Each state in the U.S. has its own set of laws that dictate how intestate succession works. In Missouri, these laws are found in the Missouri Revised Statutes, specifically in Chapter 474. Here…
In the realm of estate planning, a Last Will & Testament often stands as a testament to one’s final wishes. Yet, the process is not always straightforward, particularly when disputes arise over the validity of a will. In Missouri, as in many other states, contesting a will involves navigating a complex legal landscape. Understanding the…
Estate planning is often considered a topic reserved for married couples or those with children. However, it is even more important for unmarried individuals to have a well-thought-out estate plan in place. Without one, the state will dictate how your assets are distributed, which may not align with your wishes. More importantly, people who are…
Recently, I became District Governor Elect of Missouri’s 26-M7 District. An honor I do not take lightly. Since then on many occasions, I have been asked what the Lions Club can do to grow membership and survive the service club avalanche of losses nationwide. The following are my thoughts. The Lions Club, renowned for its…
When it comes to making as estate plan, financial security for loved ones is obviously a top priority. One often overlooked yet incredibly useful tool for this purpose is the Payable on Death (POD) account, available at many banks and financial institutions. POD accounts offer a straightforward and efficient way to transfer assets to beneficiaries…
