Webb City, Neosho, and Joplin Probate Court Attorneys
Many people are apprehensive about the probate process, fearing that it will be expensive, time-consuming and prone to litigation. However, for most families, probate is not a major undertaking. Many assets can be transferred to intended beneficiaries without involvement of the probate court.
At Checkett & Pauly, P.C., our lawyers offer a free initial consultation to explain the Missouri probate process and answer your questions. We represent personal administrators and executors in Webb City, Joplin, Neosho, and other communities throughout southwest Missouri.
Probating the estate of a parent of a loved one is a sensitive time in a person's life. Our probate attorneys are often able to provide same-day appointments to give you the guidance you need.
When Is Probate Needed in Missouri?
Probate is necessary to transfer assets from the name of the decedent to the name of the intended beneficiary under a will — or if there is no will, under Missouri's laws of intestate succession. However, probate is not necessary for the following types of assets:
- Assets held in a trust
- Assets held in transfer on death (TOD) or pay on death (POD) accounts
- Assets transferred by beneficiary designation such as stock accounts, 401(k) accounts, IRA and life insurance policies.
Our lawyers can let you know which, if any, of your loved one's assets need to go through the probate process. Our lawyers can also help you take an inventory of the assets, handle creditor claims, pay applicable taxes and distribute the net assets to beneficiaries.
Free Attorney Consultation
To discuss your legal needs with our Carthage probate attorneys, call 866-451-8303 or fill out the contact form on this website.
