Blog

Jan. 17, 2024

Discussing estate planning can evoke strong emotions. It's tough to think about what happens after we're gone, but making these decisions now can save your loved ones unnecessary stress and complications later on.

Dec. 12, 2023

As a probate attorney, I know that dealing with the loss of a loved one can be an emotionally challenging time. It's a period filled with grief and many questions about the future.

Nov. 30, 2023

When a loved one of yours passes away, their estate—assets that they have accumulated in their name—becomes subject to distribution to heirs and others either through a will or trust, or in absence of one of those legal instruments, through the law of intestate succession.

Oct. 17, 2023

As they age, many parents realize the need to make a comprehensive estate plan to provide for their loved ones and children after they pass. Most people start this process by drawing up a simple will, but setting up a trust is another good option under certain circumstances.

Sept. 14, 2023

Losing a loved one is never easy, especially when you start receiving bills for their debt. The idea of paying someone else’s debts can be overwhelming and confusing. But, are heirs responsible for the debts of the deceased? The short answer is, it depends.

Aug. 15, 2023

Making an estate plan is always an important step to take when preparing for the future. If you or someone you love is suffering from dementia, there is a new set of factors to take into consideration.

July 10, 2023

Second marriages are a beautiful thing, but they can also come with specific challenges. If you're entering a second marriage, there are many things to consider, including your estate planning.

June 28, 2023

It is never pleasant to think about death. However, creating a will is a continuous process, not a last-minute thought, which is why the sooner you do it, the better. Many people think they can just create a handwritten will “when the right time comes” and that it will be enough. The problem is that handwritten wills do not always hold up in court. In fact, many states do not recognize handwritten wills as valid altogether.

May 10, 2023

Estate administration matters, such as handling creditor claims, can require significant time and attention from executors and trustees. Estate executors and trustees in Missouri may find it challenging to navigate the legal waters in estate administration situations.

April 10, 2023

When a person passes away, their assets—commonly called their estate—must go through a legal process known as probate. If the person has penned a last will and testament, that document will have named someone to oversee the probate process. That person will be named the executor of the estate when the will and death certificate are presented to the circuit court in the county in which the person died.