WILLS
- Comprehensive Estate Planning in St. Louis, MO
Planning for the future is an essential step in protecting your family, assets, and legacy. At Lake Munro Attorneys at Law, our experienced estate planning attorneys are here to help you create a secure plan that reflects your wishes and protects your loved ones. Whether you are drafting a will, establishing a trust, or navigating the complexities of estate administration, we provide personalized legal solutions to meet your needs.
Wills & Trusts: The Cornerstones of Your Estate Plan
Having a comprehensive estate plan in place ensures that your assets are distributed according to your wishes, and that your family is provided for in the event of your passing. A well-crafted will or trust can save your loved ones from unnecessary stress, reduce taxes, and help avoid lengthy probate proceedings.
Answers to questions you may have
A will is a legal document that outlines how you wish to distribute your assets and property after your death. It also allows you to appoint an executor, who will be responsible for carrying out your instructions. Additionally, a will can specify guardianship arrangements for minor children.
Our attorneys will work closely with you to draft a will that reflects your unique circumstances, ensuring your loved ones are cared for and your estate is managed according to your preferences.
A trust is a legal arrangement that holds and manages assets on behalf of beneficiaries. Trusts can be used to bypass probate, reduce estate taxes, and provide for loved ones in a structured manner. There are several types of trusts, each offering different advantages depending on your goals.
Common types of trusts include:
- Revocable Living Trusts
These allow you to maintain control of your assets during your lifetime, while ensuring a smooth transition of those assets to your beneficiaries after your passing. - Irrevocable Trusts
These remove assets from your taxable estate, offering potential tax benefits and protection from creditors. - Special Needs Trusts
These are designed to provide financial support for loved ones with disabilities without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits.
Why You Need a Will or Trust
Without a valid will or trust, your estate may be distributed according to Missouri’s intestate laws, which may not reflect your intentions. A will ensures your wishes are followed, while a trust offers additional benefits such as privacy and avoiding probate court. Our experienced attorneys can help you determine the best approach for your estate plan and draft the necessary documents to safeguard your future.
The Benefits of Estate Planning with Lake Munro Attorneys at Law
- Personalized Guidance
We take the time to understand your goals, assets, and family dynamics to create an estate plan tailored to your needs. - Protection for Your Loved Ones
A well-structured will or trust protects your loved ones from potential disputes and ensures your assets are passed on efficiently. - Avoiding Probate
With the right estate planning tools, you can minimize or avoid the lengthy probate process, saving time and reducing legal expenses for your family. - Tax Efficiency
Proper estate planning can help reduce estate and inheritance taxes, ensuring more of your wealth goes to your beneficiaries.
Planning for Incapacity
In addition to wills and trusts, we can assist with setting up powers of attorney and medical care directives to ensure your financial and healthcare decisions are handled by trusted individuals in the event you become incapacitated.
