Administration of Estates, Trusts, and Guardianships

Has a loved one passed away? Did he or she have a will that needs to be probated? Did a family member die without a will? Are you left trying to determine what he or she wanted?  Curland Law advises fiduciaries charged with the administration of estates and trusts. The estates we administer include decedents’ estates as well as guardianship estates for minors and disabled adults.

We’ll Help You Navigate Through Opening the Estate Through the Closing

Our firm has helped many clients obtain answers to questions such as these. We understand that probate can be an overwhelming process and that families who come to us may not fully grasp the legal process involved in settling an estate. We can help you navigate through the complicated steps, from opening the estate through the closing.

The first thing we consider in determining if probate is needed is whether the deceased had a will to probate. Under Missouri probate laws, the will should be filed with the county where the deceased lived within 1 year of his or her death. To ensure the orderly distribution of assets and debts of an estate, we will review the will and determine the issues that need to be addressed. Sometimes these issues can be addressed without the need of probate. Other times, such as when a person dies without a will, the state’s intestate succession laws will govern the distribution of his or her property and probate is required.

We will also work with beneficiaries to distribute assets and with creditors to settle debts. In addition to handling probate matters, our firm is experienced in dealing with estate litigation in cases where family disputes arise, and the proper transfer of real estate by clearing title to real property. Please see below for further information on these issues.

Probate, Trust, and Guardianship Litigation

Curland Law vigorously represents all parties to decedent’s estate litigation, trust litigation and contested guardianship’s. In addition to will and trust contests, Curland Law handles disputed accountings, recovery of assets, claims, heirship disputes, and scores of other potential estate/guardianship litigation.

Estate Planning Services

Curland Law offers a broad range of estate planning services, including wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other planning. However, there is more to estate planning than the aforementioned services. We ensure that each client’s long-range plans are addressed with their unique needs in mind, whether simple or complex. We offer careful attention to detail and broad legal experience.

Need help with any Probate Wills, Trusts, Conservatorship or Guardianship Issue?  Call us for a free phone consultation.