Probate Attorneys In Jefferson County, Missouri
It is a very hard time when a loved one passes away. On top of your grief, you may suddenly have to deal with complex legal issues. You might have been named executor and feel lost about what to do next. You may fear that probate will be a long and expensive legal burden on your family.
At Roberts Wooten & Zimmer LLC, our job is to take the confusion and stress out of this process. We have more than 100 years of combined legal experience, and we can guide your family through the probate court system in Jefferson County. Whether you have a simple estate or a complex one, we can help.
Probate In Missouri: What You Need To Know
Probate is the legal and court-supervised process of validating a will and administering a deceased person’s estate. In Jefferson County, the process involves:
- Filing a petition
- Validating the will and appointing a personal representative
- Notifying creditors and beneficiaries
- Distributing and closing the estate
If you are the executor, you will collect all assets and notify creditors and heirs. You will also be responsible for paying debts and taxes and managing the estate until it is ready for distribution.
You may be able avoid a difficult probate process through proper estate planning. Tools like a living trust and Transfer-on-Death (TOD) deeds can transfer assets directly to your loved ones without going through the court.
Common Questions About Probate In Jefferson County
It is normal to have questions that cause a lot of stress during this difficult time. Below, we have the answers to these important questions about probate in the state.
What happens if someone dies without a will in Missouri?
If someone dies without a will, their property will be subject to the state’s intestate succession process. Usually, if the closest family members inherit the property. For example, it will go to their spouse, children or parents, following a set order.
Can probate be contested in Missouri?
An heir or a beneficiary can contest a will that goes through the probate process.
Call Today, And Let Us Take The Legal Burden Off Your Shoulders In This Difficult Time
At Roberts Wooten & Zimmer LLC, our trusted Missouri probate attorneys in Jefferson County will help honor your wishes and protect your family. Call us today at 636-481-4088 or fill out this form to set up an appointment.
