What Does an Executor Do in Kansas or Missouri?

An organized desk with neutral folders, a notebook, and a pen, softly lit by natural daylight

When someone passes away and leaves a will, one of the most important steps is choosing an executor also known as a personal representative. This individual is legally responsible for ensuring that the instructions in the will are properly carried out, debts are paid, and the estate is distributed according to the law. In both […]

Can a Power of Attorney Override a Will?

power of attorney and last will and testament paper document

Let’s Clear the Confusion: Can a Power of Attorney Override a Will? The short answer? Nope, a Power of Attorney (POA) cannot override a will. But and it’s a big but actions taken under a POA before death can absolutely affect what’s left behind in the estate, which might indirectly change how the will plays […]

Do I Need an Estate Planning Attorney in Kansas or Missouri?

Estate planning attorney meeting with a couple to discuss wills and long-term planning in Kansas and Missouri.

Do I Need an Estate Planning Attorney in Kansas or Missouri? Many people begin their estate planning journey with a simple question: Do I really need an estate planning attorney, or can I handle this myself? With the rise of online legal templates and DIY estate planning platforms, it’s tempting to think estate planning is […]

What Documents Are Included in an Estate Plan?

A professional individual signs estate planning legal documents at a desk in an office setting.

When people hear the term estate plan, they often assume it refers to a single document, such as a will. In reality, a comprehensive estate plan is a coordinated set of legal documents designed to protect you, your family, and your assets both during your lifetime and after death. The documents included in an estate […]

Can a Handwritten Will be Valid in Kansas or Missouri?

  Understanding Holographic Wills and Their Limitations When a loved one passes away, one of the first questions family members often ask is whether the deceased left a valid will. In some cases, they may discover a handwritten document outlining the person’s final wishes. But does a handwritten will—also known as a “holographic will”—hold up […]

When Should You Update Your Estate Plan in Missouri and Kansas?

Recognizing the Life Events That Trigger a Review Creating an estate plan is a significant step in protecting your family, preserving your wealth, and ensuring your wishes are honored. However, estate planning is not a one-time task. As life changes, your estate plan should change as well. In Kansas and Missouri, reviewing and updating your […]

Estate Planning Conversations at Thanksgiving

A warm family gathering around a festive Thanksgiving dinner table with candles and smiles.

Using Family Gatherings to Further Solidify Your Estate Plan Thanksgiving is traditionally a time for gratitude, family, and togetherness. With loved ones gathered around the table, often from far and wide, it can also be a valuable opportunity to discuss important matters that too often get postponed. One of those topics is estate planning. While […]

Why Business Owners in Kansas and Missouri Need an Estate Plan

  What Happens to Your Business if You Die? Owning a business comes with a unique set of responsibilities, risks, and rewards. For entrepreneurs and business owners in Kansas and Missouri, building a successful enterprise often represents years, if not decades, of hard work and dedication. But without a proper estate plan in place, that […]

The Importance of Filing a Will for Safekeeping in Kansas and Missouri After Death

  Why Filing a Will After Death Matters in Kansas and Missouri When a loved one passes away, there are many responsibilities that fall to surviving family members – one of the most important being locating and filing the decedent’s Last Will and Testament. In Kansas and Missouri, failing to timely file a will after […]

Gun Trusts in Kansas and Missouri – What You Need to Know

  Gun Trusts: What They Are and How They Protect Firearm Owners A Gun Trust is a special type of legal entity designed to hold ownership of firearms—particularly those regulated under the National Firearms Act (NFA), such as suppressors, short-barreled rifles (SBRs), and fully automatic weapons. These trusts are commonly used to help firearms owners […]