What to Do When a Parent Dies Without a Will
Key Takeaways Immediate steps include ordering death certificates, securing the property, petitioning for an administrator, and consulting an attorney. Order several certified copies of the death certificate before contacting banks, insurers, or government agencies. Secure the home, vehicle, and other valuable property while the family sorts out the rest of the estate. A surviving...
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When a Husband Dies What Is The Wife Entitled To
Key Takeaways Missouri law guarantees a surviving spouse a share of the estate, even against a will. Dying without a will does not leave a wife unprotected under Missouri's distribution rules. Probate assets, jointly owned property, and beneficiary accounts each pass differently after death. A spouse left out of a will can still claim...
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Types of Trusts for Minors
Key Takeaways Families often use trusts to control how and when a minor receives an inheritance. A trustee can manage assets responsibly until a child reaches adulthood. Common options include revocable, testamentary, discretionary, educational, and incentive trusts. Distributions can be staggered by age or milestone instead of given as one lump sum. Missouri law...
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