Blog

Published on July 1, 2020

Estate Planning: Where Do I Begin?

You may be interested in estate planning, but don’t know how to get started. If that sounds like you, this article may offer some valuable insights. Where do I begin? This is a question I get asked quite often, in the context of estate planning. 1. Sit down with an estate planning attorney. Most attorneys […]

Published on June 22, 2020

Selecting a Personal Representative

The nomination of a Personal Representative is an important part of one’s Last Will and Testament. Here are some factors to consider. Choosing a Personal Representative and your back-up, or successor Personal Representatives can be an overwhelming experience. Frequently, clients ask for advice when it comes time to make this decision. Here are some considerations […]

Published on May 4, 2020

Talking to Your Parents About Estate Planning

Do your parents have an estate plan? If not, you should have a conversation about the benefits of estate planning and the pitfalls of procrastination. Estate planning is an essential topic for adult children to discuss with their parents. Here are some key points to consider: 1. If your parent is in the hospital, they […]

Published on April 7, 2020

Estate Planning During the COVID-19 Crisis

Through video conferencing technology, we can now offer clients the ability to sign from the comfort and safety of their own homes, free of any in-person contact. COVID-19: Remote Estate Planning Legally enforceable, estate planning documents can now be signed entirely from the comfort of your own home. Why does this matter? Most estate planning […]

Published on February 11, 2020

Does a Will Protect My Property From Probate?

Unfortunately, Wills are not a legal instrument capable of protecting your property from probate administration. Learn more about instruments that can. Does a Will Protect My Property From Probate? The short answer: No. Most people don’t realize that giving property to a beneficiary through a Will exposes it to probate. Probate occurs anytime property that […]

Published on January 22, 2020

When Should I Think About Getting an Estate Plan?

Clients often wonder at what age (or in what financial situation) should they think about getting a Will or Trust. Frequently, clients ask: 1. What is a standard time to get an estate plan (what age)? 2. Do estate plans only benefit the wealthy? Most people, regardless of age or financial means, benefit significantly from […]

Published on November 26, 2019

How Do I “Fund” My Trust?

Funding a Trust is like putting apples in a basket. Once you have signed your Trust document, it will need to be funded with assets to be legally effective. The creation and subsequent funding of a Trust is something I like to compare to picking apples. Just think of your Trust as a basket and […]

Published on October 2, 2019

Special Needs Trusts in Missouri

Learn how to maximize benefits for loved ones with special needs. Special Needs Trusts maximize benefits and resources for beneficiaries with special needs. The Trust’s language preserves the beneficiary’s eligibility for benefits provided by outside organizations, such as state or federal needs-based programs (e.g., Supplemental Security Income & MO HealthNet). Any income/assets from the Trust […]

Published on October 1, 2019

What Is an Estate Plan? What’s Included?

Estate Planning provides legal tools to better control the circumstances of life and prepare for the future. Learn more about the types of legal documents that are included. What is an estate plan? An estate plan is a coordinated set of legal documents that allow you to manage your life and property as you see […]