Lee's Summit Estate Planning Attorneys

The Worstell Law Firm assists clients in estate planning and legal financial planning matters. We offer a wide range of services for both simple and complex estate plans in both Missouri and Kansas, MO. We believe that no matter the size of estate, every individual should have an estate plan, particularly for individuals with children.

Is It Better To Have A Will Or A Trust?

A trust passes outside of probate, so a court does not require to manage the process, which can save money and time. Unlike a will, which ends up being part of the general public record. a trust can remain private. For example, a will enables you to call a guardian for children and define funeral arrangements, while a trust does not.

Call our estate planning lawyers in Lee’s Summit today at (816) 338-7877 or contact us online to schedule a consultation.

What Is The Purpose of Estate Planning?

Proper estate planning protects your legacy, your assets, and your family from the stress and financial impact of probate.

In Missouri, estate plans outline exactly how your estate – money, assets, house, personal property, etc. – should be handled after you pass away. Without a proper estate plan in place, the probate process is much more complex since your surviving family members will have to work out what to do with your estate, which can often lead to heated arguments and even litigation.

What Should Be Included in an Estate Plan?

Generally, estate plans can include the following:

• Wills
• Trusts
• Powers of attorney
• Healthcare Directives
• Beneficiary designations
• Guardianship designations

These aspects of estate planning outline who benefits from your estate when you’re gone, when and how your estate should be distributed, who has the legal authority to administrate it, and more.

Contact Our Lee's Summit Estate Planning Lawyer Today

Estate planning in MO is a very complex and nuanced legal process. Handled correctly, it can make probate easier for your elder loved ones after you are gone (or help them avoid probate entirely); handled incorrectly, and your estate may not be managed according to your wishes. Hiring a Lee’s Summit estate planning lawyer can give you peace of mind knowing that your estate is in order and your last wishes will be honored!