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One of the most important estate planning issues for couples with young children is the of naming a suitable guardian for the children in the event of an unexpected tragedy.  Name of a guardian for children is contained in a properly drafted last will and testament. “Who would raise our children if something happened to […]

The prospect of retirement brings many thoughts and emotions to mind.  It is a good time to address estate planning issues as well as planning your post-retirement life and world. Who You Should Talk to Before Retiring—and What to Ask Deciding when to retire is one of life’s most significant milestones. While it can be […]

Understanding Missouri Probate and the Validation of a Will Probating a Last Will and Testament is the legal process by which a court confirms the validity of a Will. In Missouri, trust and estate laws are designed to safeguard the integrity of a Will and ensure that a decedent’s final wishes are honored and executed […]

Few events are as stressful or disorienting as the unexpected death of a friend or family member.  Preparing ahead as well as knowing the steps to take at the time of such an event can ease panic and helplessness at such a time. Sadly, the passing of a loved one can occur at any time, […]

Discussing estate planning and preparing for post-death matters can be difficult.  But making the conversation personal and practical in a way that emphasizes dignity and respect can make a vital conversation possible. Don’t Wait Too Long: Helping a Loved One Start Their Estate Plan It’s an all-too-common scenario: a person owns a home, investment accounts, […]

The probate process is the judicial administration of a decedent’s assets after an individual’s death.  Most families take steps to avoid the probate process, typically through the employment of a living trust.  It should be noted, however, that probate, while a bit cumbersome, is not the end of the world. Navigating Probate: What to Expect—and […]