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 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…
As we age, it’s natural to start thinking about how best to manage and transfer our assets to loved ones. Whether it’s your home, bank accounts, or other investments, ensuring that these assets are handled according to your wishes is an essential part of estate planning. Unfortunately, one common mistake can jeopardize your financial security…
Estate planning is a vital process that ensures an individual’s assets and wishes are properly managed, distributed, and protected after death. However, creating a comprehensive estate plan requires navigating a maze of complex legal, financial, and personal issues that, if not properly addressed, can lead to unintended consequences, costly mistakes, or even legal disputes. Attorneys…
Probate administration in the State of Missouri is a legal process that occurs after someone passes away, involving the validation and execution of their Last Will & Testament, or, in cases where no will exists, the distribution of their assets according to state law. Yes, you read that correctly, a will does not avoid probate,…
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…
