The estate planning process exists to help people in Missouri and elsewhere protect their assets and provide for their loved ones. It also enables an individual to issue instructions regarding end-of-life care or grant authority to another person to make decisions on...
Estate Planning
What are the benefits of a special needs trust?
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Nov 8, 2023 | Estate Planning
You might be one of many Missouri parents who take care of a child that lives with a disability. Whether your son or daughter has a physical impediment, such as paralysis or another issue where mobility is only possible with a wheelchair, or a condition such as Down...
Three common errors an executor could make
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Oct 6, 2023 | Estate Planning
The executor of an estate must perform many critical responsibilities during probate. When an executor makes mistakes, probate in Missouri could become more complicated. Certain errors may recur more frequently, so estate planners need to select an executor who is...
The most common issues faced by executors
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Aug 15, 2023 | Estate Planning
Being named the executor of an estate in Missouri is a privilege. You get the honor of being the one whom the founder considers to be the most reliable and trustworthy. However, you can also be exposed to a great deal of hassle. Here are some issues that you may face...
The challenging process of advanced care planning
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Jul 28, 2023 | Estate Planning
As parents grow older, their adult children may have to make some difficult choices and equally difficult discussions about elderly care for their moms and dads. Advanced care planning is a legally complex and emotionally-charged step to ensure safety and security....
Selecting the right trustee for your estate
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | May 9, 2023 | Estate Planning
Choosing a trustee to manage your estate is a crucial decision with long-lasting consequences for your family and loved ones. The right person will have the responsibility of carrying out your wishes and managing the assets in the best interests of the beneficiaries,...
How trusts can help you avoid probate court in Missouri
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Mar 24, 2023 | Estate Planning
Many estate plans are set up to avoid Missouri probate court. Probate court can complicate things for your beneficiaries and lengthen an already painful process. One of the better estate planning tools to help avoid probate court is a revocable trust. Trusts of all...
What types of assets can you place in a living trust?
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Feb 3, 2023 | Estate Planning
Trusts are powerful estate planning tools that you can use in tandem with a will. Trusts differ from wills in that your chosen trustee assumes the responsibility of distributing assets placed within the trust to your beneficiaries, rather than leaving the process to...
Common misconceptions about wills
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Jan 17, 2023 | Estate Planning
A will is a legal document that outlines how a person's assets should be distributed after their death. While it is a common and useful estate planning tool in Missouri, there are many misconceptions about wills that can lead to misunderstandings and confusion. Here...
Understanding the different types of fiduciaries
On Behalf of Lewis Law Office, P.C. | Dec 23, 2022 | Estate Planning
Helping aging parents determine how to plan for the future of their estate might be challenging. Understanding the significant roles that people may play throughout the process can offer confidence and limit confusion. Estate planning often involves designating people...