Let's Get You a Will
We are a Judgement-Free Zone
Let's mark this important task off your to-do list by scheduling a free 45 minute estate planning consultation.
Do you feel embarrassed because you don't have a will? That's okay; you're not alone. More than 50% of Americans do not have a Will. But it's essential to have one, so your family is safe and protected for the future. I can make the process simple and affordable for you, so you can finally check it off your to-do list.
Here is how we handle Estate Planning:
1. Schedule an Initial Consultation: We'll discuss your unique situation and goals so my team can provide a no-obligation game-plan for your family's needs while demystifying any legal confusion.
2. Receive Document Drafts: After an initial information-gathering period, we will draft up your documents and we'll walk through them together to answer questions and revise as necessary.
3. Sign Off & Breathe Easy: Once documents are finalized, we'll schedule a time for you to sign everything and I'll return your organized estate plan to you and answer additional questions. CONGRATS! You protected your family.
Click to schedule your free 45-minute consultation. Although sometimes it's uncomfortable to discuss end of life issues, it will be way more uncomfortable for your family and friends to know not your wishes or what to do when you die or are disabled.
Official Facts about Wills in Missouri
Do I need a notary to make a will official? No but it is best practice to have your will notarized.
Do I need a witness to make a will official? Yes, you will need two witnesses for your will.
What happens to my stuff if I don't make a will? 1) If married with no children, spouse inherits. 2)If married with children, spouse gets the first $20,000, then spouse and children split 50/50. 3) If children and no spouse, equitable distribution. If none of the above, the order is parents, then siblings, then distant relatives, then back to the state.
How do I make it easy for my family when I die? I don't want them to deal with lawyers.
There are a few ways to avoid probate in Missouri.
- One way is to create a living trust and transfer ownership of your assets to the trust. This way, your assets will be managed by the trust instead of going through probate court.
- Another way to avoid probate is to designate beneficiaries for your assets, such as bank accounts or life insurance policies. This allows your assets to be transferred directly to the designated beneficiaries upon your death, without the need for probate court.
- You can also transfer ownership of some assets, such as real estate, to another person or entity. This can help avoid probate for those specific assets. Doing this could also affect state benefits such as paying for a nursing home.
- It's always a good idea to consult with an attorney who is familiar with estate planning laws in Missouri to determine the best course of action for your situation.
What questions should I ask an Estate Planning Attorney?
When meeting with an estate planning attorney, there are several important questions that you should ask to make sure that you have a thorough understanding of the process and the various options available to you. Here are some questions that you may want to ask:
- What is the difference between a will and a trust?
- How do living trusts and revocable trusts differ?
- What is the probate process and how can I avoid it?
- Can you help me create a plan to minimize taxes on my estate?
- How can I protect my assets from creditors or potential lawsuits?
- What is a power of attorney and do I need one?
- Can you help me plan for long-term care and end-of-life decisions?
- What is a healthcare directive and do I need one?
It's also important to ask about the attorney's experience and qualifications in the area of estate planning, as well as their fees and payment policies. This will help you choose the right attorney for your needs and ensure that you have a smooth and successful estate planning experience.
Free Forty-Five Minute Estate Planning Conference
I offer a 45 minute strategy session where my team listens to your story and begins the process of giving you the best estate plan possible for you.
At the session, we will also discuss pricing. I use flat-fee pricing to keep things simple and affordable. There are two estate plans - a will package and a trust package. During our initial consultation, I will make a recommendation, but ultimately you will decide which is right for you and your family.
Finally, I will give you a timeline of the process. We want this to get marked off your to-do list but we also want it to be perfect.
Do I need a lawyer to do this?
There are several reasons why you should use a lawyer for estate planning. Estate planning attorneys know the complex laws and regulations about wills, trusts, and other estate planning matters. They can help make sure your assets are distributed the way you want and that your loved ones are taken care of if something happens to you.
An estate planning attorney can also help you avoid common mistakes that can lead to problems down the road. For example, they can help you properly execute your will or trust so it is legally enforceable. They can also help you navigate the probate process and minimize taxes and other expenses.