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Business owners have unique estate planning issues; transfer of ownership of closely held businesses should be part of a full and complete estate planning process. Protecting Your Legacy: Why and How to Transfer Business Ownership to a TrustBusiness owners invest countless hours, resources, and energy into building their companies. For many, the ultimate goal is to […]

Living trusts today are the standard vehicle for building an estate plan and transferring assets to loved ones at death, as assets held by a living trust always avoid the probate process. Securing Your Legacy: The Importance of a Living Trust in MissouriFor many people, ensuring their loved ones are financially protected after their passing is […]

Intangible assets are an often overlooked part of a families assets and property; attention to intangible assets (intellectual property, etc.) should be addressed as part of the estate planning process. Tangible vs. Intangible Assets: Why the Difference Matters in Estate PlanningEstate planning is a vital step in securing your legacy and ensuring your wishes are honored. […]

Holographic, or handwritten, wills are still valid in most states; however, rejection of holographic wills is very common, and it is best to consult with an attorney and fully comply with all statutory legal testamentary requirements. Why Holographic Wills Are Best Left in the PastAt first glance, the simplicity of a holographic will may seem appealing. […]

Funding your trust, i.e. putting your assets into the name of your trust, is a necessary but often overlooked part of the estate planning process. Creating a Trust Isn’t the Final Step—You Still Need to Fund ItYou did everything right—or so you thought. After months of meetings and decisions, you finally signed your trust documents […]

Financial powers of attorney allow a nominated individual to manage your financial affairs during any temporary or permanent incapacity.  While many estate planning documents exclusively define duties and responsibilities after a person passes, financial powers of attorney define roles during the person’s life. Understanding the Financial Power of Attorney: A Key Component of Estate PlanningCreating a […]