Blog

Published on April 26, 2023

What Is a Grantor Retained Annuity Trust, or GRAT, in Missouri?

As a premier estate planning law firm, we’ve helped countless clients in St. Louis and beyond explore strategies for keeping more of their hard-earned wealth. When you’re ready to find the best techniques for structuring your finances, contact us to schedule a consultation. If you’re a confident investor, you know what it’s like to have […]

Published on December 20, 2022

What is a Durable Power of Attorney?

As you prepare to plan your estate, one of the top elements include assigning your Durable Power of Attorney. However, understanding the responsibilities of your Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA) is essential if you hope to protect yourself. With help from an experienced Missouri estate planning attorney at David S. Schleiffarth, LLC, you can get […]

Published on December 20, 2022

The Difference Between a Will And a Living Will

As you work through your estate plans, crafting your will and living will could prove to be more confusing than you thought. After all, it is not unusual for Missourians to use living will and will interchangeably.  However, there are stark differences between wills and living wills that you should be aware of as you […]

Published on December 20, 2022

What is a Trust Protector? 

As you are forming your Trusts and planning the details of your estate, one of the most important details you may be considering is implementing a Trust Protector. However, if your Trust already has a Trustee, do you really need a Trust Protector?  Understanding the role and responsibilities of a trust protector is essential before […]

Published on December 20, 2022

Estate Planning Mistakes to Avoid

Estate Planning can be a complicated process. One of the biggest mistakes people make is attempting to go at it alone. If you are hoping to avoid many of the errors made by others hoping to protect themselves and their families, having an experienced Missouri Estate Planning attorney working for you could be in your […]

Published on December 20, 2022

How to Choose a Trustee

Selecting your trustee is one of the most important responsibilities you will have as you set up a trust. However, while you may be inclined to select a family member to act as the trustee, it is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages, the responsibilities of your trustees, and how trustees work before you […]

Published on December 13, 2022

Qualified Spousal Trusts in Missouri

In Missouri, a married couple’s trust (meeting specific criteria) can provide unique asset protection characteristics. What Is A “Qualified Spousal Trust” (QST)? In Missouri, a Qualified Spousal Trust (QST) allows property owned by a married couple’s trust to be treated as “Tenancy by the Entireties.” What Is “Tenancy By The Entireties?” In Missouri, “Tenants-by-the-Entireties” (TBE) […]

Published on December 6, 2022

How do I update my existing estate plan?

Estate plans should be reviewed roughly every five years and updated as circumstances warrant. Consult an Estate Planning Attorney.

Published on November 16, 2022

What happens if I don’t have a Successor Trustee?

If a Trust does not have any living Successor Trustees, very likely a professional fiduciary would be appointed by the court. However, having your Trust (and beneficiaries) deal with the cost and hassles of the court is not ideal. Here are some helpful considerations. When preparing a Trust, it is wise to have a sufficiently […]