What is probate?
Probate refers to the court process of authenticating and administrating a will. During probate, any outstanding debts are paid and the remaining assets are dispersed among the beneficiaries. A personal representative (typically named in the will) oversees the process and ensures each step is properly executed. In cases where there is no will, Missouri courts will step in and distribute the assets in a manner that they deem equitable. This process is usually complicated and time-consuming, and family members may find themselves embroiled in bitter disputes. Reach out to our firm today to learn more about how you can create an estate plan that helps your family avoid the laborious probate process.
Why do people wish to avoid probate?
The probate process in Missouri can be lengthy and contentious, so many individuals turn to an estate planning attorney who can help them find ways of avoiding probate. There are several options for transferring your assets before you pass away, including forming living trusts, using beneficiary deeds, establishing joint ownership of property with the right of survivorship, and more. If you are interested in creating a solid estate plan that reduces the likelihood of your family ending up in probate court, discuss your options with seasoned estate planning attorney Creath S. Thorne today.
What documents should I include in my estate plan?
When it comes to estate planning, there are many different options for you to explore. Generally, a solid estate plan includes four main elements: creating a will, establishing trusts, designating powers of attorney, and completing advance health care directives. Putting these pieces in place ensures that the dignity and wishes of you and your family will be respected upon your death. Contact our knowledgeable estate planning attorney today to learn more about our customized estate planning services that are tailored to suit your specific wealth preservation goals.
Why should I consider establishing a trust?
There are many reasons why establishing a trust (or several) is beneficial to you and your family. Most importantly, a trust provides you with a large amount of flexibility and a smoother transition of your wealth to your beneficiaries once you pass away. Other benefits include: reduction in expensive probate fees; avoiding probate proceedings; the automatic transition of business and property management; greater control over property distribution; unification of assets; facilitation of equitable distribution among beneficiaries, and more. Schedule your free consultation with a skilled estate planning attorney today to learn more about why trusts are beneficial.
I’m having a serious dispute with my business partner. What should I do?
Divisions and bitter arguments among business partners can jeopardize the success of their company. If you are struggling with how to resolve a major dispute with your business partner, you should think seriously about reaching out to a seasoned business law attorney who can help you understand your options. Together, you and your attorney can assess the situation and determine the most productive course of action. Whether you handle your dispute through mediation or in civil litigation, dedicate attorney Creath S. Throne, P.C. will protect your rights and interests every step of the way, helping you achieve a successful outcome. Call today to get started.
Does my business dispute need to be handled in court?
Although some business disputes end up in civil court, there are other options for successfully resolving your business law matter. If you reach out to a reliable business law attorney before the dispute grows too complex or acrimonious, you may be able to settle your dispute through mediation or arbitration. Both of these options are more cost-effective than litigation, and they remove much of the uncertainty that comes with taking your case to trial. For more information on ways you can successfully resolve your business law matter, reach out to Creath S. Thorne, P.C. today.
I’ve been injured in an accident. Can I file a personal injury claim?
Generally, if you had to seek medical treatment for your injury, then it is advisable that you meed with a personal injury attorney to discuss your options for pursuing compensation. There are many aspects to developing a strong personal injury claim, and an experienced lawyer will help you build a successful case to maximize your financial return
How long after the incident should I pursue a personal injury claim?
Like other states, Missouri specifies a statute of limitations for personal injury legal actions. If too much time has elapsed between the time you were injured and the time you decide to file a lawsuit, you will not be able to pursue your claim and thus forfeiting your ability to receive compensation. Depending on the specifics of your case, the time limitations vary. Most types of personal injury claims have time limits ranging from two to five years, but there are many factors that determine the precise statute of limitations of each claim. It is important to contact a skilled personal injury attorney right after your accident in order to give yourself the best possible chance of building a strong claim.
I’m considering pursuing a divorce. What should I know?
Sometimes, the dissolution of your failing marriage is the best way to move forward with your life. If you are considering a divorce, it is important to realize that Missouri is a no-fault divorce state, which means that you will not need to specify to the court the reasons that your marriage failed. Instead, if you simply testify that your marriage is “irretrievably broken” and beyond saving, the court will grant your dissolution of marriage, which legally terminates your marriage. If you are in the process of exploring your divorce options, reach out to Creath S. Thorne, P.C. today for high-quality and compassionate legal assistance during this challenging time.
My spouse and I are going through a divorce. What will happen to our kids?
During a divorce proceeding in Missouri, the court will try to award joint custody so that the children continue to enjoy fulfilling relationships with each parent. Of course, if there are reasons that a parent may be unable to provide a stable environment for the child, or poses a threat in some way, the court will design a custody arrangement that puts the safety and well-being of the child first. Custody determinations can be complex, so it is helpful to work with a knowledgeable family law attorney who can help you understand your options and implement a clear legal strategy that will help you achieve your goals.
