As an elder law attorney in Jefferson City, Missouri, I have seen the heartbreaking aftermath of financial and emotional abuse that far too often comes from the people seniors trust most: family members, close friends, and caregivers. While it may be difficult to imagine your own child, niece, or long-time neighbor doing harm, elder exploitation…
Gracefully aging in Missouri comes with many blessings such as discounted coffee, grandkids you can spoil and return, and finally having time to read the fine print. But with these joys also come important legal decisions that, if left unattended, can create more headaches than a Missouri summer without air conditioning. What issues can you…
This article is written with some of the toughest people in mind – those who have gone through divorce and come out on the other side. Those of you who have experienced a divorce now know life after divorce can feel like starting over. Children are hurt, couples are hurt, in-laws and parents are hurt,…
As an elder law and estate planning attorney here in Missouri, I have sat across our conference table from too many grieving families left picking up the pieces because a loved one never got around to making an estate plan. Just this month, we prevailed in a 9-hour trial wherein we successfully obtained many assets…
Performing surgery is serious business and most would never consider doing it on their own body. Creating a valid and enforceable Last Will and Testament, (hereinafter, “will”), is also serious business and should only be done by experienced attorneys. The creation of a valid will is crucial to ensure your wishes are honored after your…
As we grow older, many of us rely on loved ones or close friends to assist with our daily needs. Whether it is running errands, preparing meals, or providing personal care, this help can make the difference between staying in our homes or needing to move into a care facility. While these arrangements often begin…
At the time of authoring this article, winter continues to pound our community, bringing snow, ice, and cold temperatures. During these miserably cold months, seniors face not only personal safety concerns but also potential legal liabilities. Many people do not realize that property owners, including homeowners, can be held responsible for injuries that occur on…
Serving as a personal representative (also known as an executor) of an estate in Missouri is a position of significant trust. The personal representative is responsible for managing the estate’s assets, paying debts, and distributing property according to the decedent’s will or state law if no will exists. When a personal representative fails to fulfill…
As a Missouri attorney and a member of our local community here in Jefferson City, I take great pride in my commitment to serving clients with integrity and professionalism. I believe it is essential for everyone, particularly senior adults who often seek legal guidance on sensitive matters, to understand the ethical obligations attorneys must follow…
As we grow older, the prospect of moving into a residential care facility can feel both daunting and liberating. For some, it is an opportunity to embrace a new chapter of life with additional support and a sense of community. For others, it may involve tough decisions and emotional adjustments. One thing is clear: open…
