Probate – Do I need a Lawyer?

The short answer is Yes.  There are two reasons why - the legal one, and the practical one: Legally, in Missouri, and most other states, you must be a licensed attorney in order to represent anyone except yourself.  In a probate proceeding you are representing the "estate", even if there is only one child or heir ...

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Roth Conversions in 2010

You have likely heard and read a lot about Roth IRA Conversions in 2010. The reason is that this year offera a significant opportunity for anyone with funds in a “Traditional” IRA. Traditional IRA’s allow for deductible contributions, but require taxable distributions commencing when the account holder turns 70 ½. Roth IRA’s are not deductible ...

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Wills, Trusts, and Estate Planning for New and Young Parents

New and young parents often have several things in common. They often have a home with relatively little equity, and very little else. Hopefully they have a decent job or jobs, and decent prospects for advancement. When they think about estate planning they often just worry about naming a guardian for their children - which ...

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Using Incentives in Estate Planning

We often talk about using provisions in Wills and Trusts to protect money and other assets that are left to children and other family members. Another function of proper planning is to create incentives for family members left behind. These can be as varied as your imagination allows. You may wish to reward a child ...

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Real Estate Titles — Keep them up to date

  Major life events, such a divorces, deaths, and marriages are always hectic, and they always leave lots of details to be handled.  One detail that should not be overlooked is dealing with titles to real estate.  After such an event it is important to review with an attorney the most current deeds to all real ...

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