St. Louis Wills Attorney

Protect Your Loved Ones By Establishing A Will

Although it is unpleasant to ponder, we must all face the reality that we will someday pass from this world. We owe it to our loved ones to create a plan that clearly lays out our final wishes while we are living. A will is the formal mechanism that allows us to officially declare how to distribute your assets and who should receive them.

Our team at the St. Louis law firm of TdD Attorneys at Law understands the stress and anxiety that can be brought on by planning the division of your estate and establishing a will. Allow our St. Louis Wills Attorneys to put your mind at ease and help you craft a plan to carry out your final wishes.

Why Choose TdD Attorneys at Law?

• With over 30 years of experience in estate planning law, our attorneys understand the requirements necessary to create a valid will in Missouri. 
• Wills are unique to each individual, and no two are alike. Our firm will take the time to get to know you, your needs, and your assets to create a comprehensive plan for the future.
• We offer our estate planning services at a reasonable cost. Our firm will work closely with you to determine an arrangement that works best for your situation.

Why Is Creating a Will Important in St. Louis?

A last will and testament is one of the most important documents you will ever create. In this document, you specify where you want your property to go after you die, making sure the right beneficiaries receive the right assets. 

If you die without a will in Missouri, the court will assume control of your estate and distribute your property according to the state’s intestacy laws. By creating a will, you override the state of Missouri’s plan and ensure that your final wishes are protected. 

Requirements for a Legal Will in Missouri

To create a legal will in Missouri, you must be at least 18 years old and of sound mind. If you are a minor, you need to be married, emancipated, or on active military duty. The document must be in writing and signed by you and by two witnesses.

Any competent person could act as a witness to a will. Generally, these witnesses should not stand to inherit anything from the will. If an interested party acts as a witness, he or she will not receive a gift unless there are at least two disinterested parties who witness the will. 

Which Format Meets My Unique Needs?

A will works best in conjunction with a trust in order to avoid probate court after your death. A trust, unlike a will, allows the individual or individuals you designate to have much more control over the distribution of your assets. The presence or absence of a trust will ultimately determine the type of will required. There are two primary types of wills:

• Pour-over will: Transfers or “pours” your assets at the time of your death to a trust.
• Simple will: In the absence of a trust, this document will control the full distribution of your assets.

Regardless of the type of will your unique situation may require, rest assured that our team can advise and assist you. Allow us to offer legal counsel to help inform your decisions. Regardless of your planning requirements, our dedicated team will personally stand by you through each step in the process to protect your interests.

How a St. Louis Wills Attorney Can Help You

Today, creating your will is easier than ever thanks to do-it-yourself tools and online resources. However, when creating a plan for your final wishes, you want to make sure that it is comprehensive, legally sound, and in the best interests of you and your loved ones. Hiring an attorney is the best way to make sure that your assets are properly protected.

An Estate Planning Attorney in St. Louis can handle these complex matters on your behalf. A lawyer can guide you through the necessary steps and help you create a will that meets your objectives and unique needs.

There are several benefits to hiring a will attorney, such as the following:

• Avoiding Errors: Often, wills are created in a hurry and without enough consideration, leading to costly mistakes. Your attorney can help you avoid these common errors and create a will that addresses the intricacies of your unique situation.
• Understanding Legal Jargon: Wills are full of technical language that can seem confusing at first. Your lawyer will have significant experience and knowledge in creating these documents. Using this expertise, your attorney will work closely with you to build a strong and valid will.
• Making Will Updates: As life circumstances change, you want to make sure that your will changes with it. Your lawyer can help you review and update your will on a regular basis so that the document remains relevant. 
• Helping with Asset Distribution: When creating a will, you want to ensure that your assets are distributed to the right people. Sometimes, it’s not enough to name a beneficiary for each property. Your attorney can help you establish trusts and other mechanisms to distribute your assets, helping reduce the risk of a will contest. 

Call a St. Louis Wills Attorney Now

There is no excuse to delay another minute. Call TdD Attorneys at Law in St. Louis today and let us tailor an estate plan to suit your unique needs. Schedule a consultation and learn how we can help protect your assets for your loved ones. Let our team get to know you and assess how we can best assist in your estate planning. Call (314) 276-1318 or contact us online.

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