Protecting trust assets from risky spending and aggressive creditors takes more than good intentions. A well-drafted spendthrift clause can shield a beneficiary’s interest until funds are actually placed in their hands. At the Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC, we help families in the greater St. Louis area build living trusts that match real-life […]
Published on April 7, 2026
Life changes fast, and your estate plan should keep up. A revocable trust gives you control today and guides asset management and distribution later, without the need for probate. At the Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC, we help families across the greater St. Louis area keep their plans current and practical. This article […]
Published on March 5, 2026
Retirement planning shapes how well your savings carry you through the years when work slows down. Many people fund 401(k)s or IRAs, yet small missteps can shave off years of comfort later on. At the Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC, in St. Louis, we focus on practical plans that protect families and their […]
Published on January 7, 2026
Standard wealth transfer often acts like a “leaky bucket,” losing value to estate taxes at every generation. A Generation-Skipping Trust (GST) prevents this by moving assets to beneficiaries at least 37.5 years younger, typically grandchildren, while often still providing income to your children. With the 2025 lifetime exemption at $13.99 million, this strategy is essential […]
Published on December 17, 2025
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 20, 2022
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
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 13, 2022
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 […]
Published on November 16, 2022
Take a look at two crucial Estate Planning documents. Learn more about the differences between wills and trusts and which might be more appropriate for your goals.
Published on October 27, 2022