Guides
Missouri probate articles
- How Do You Make a Valid Will In Missouri?
2021-01-27
To make a valid will under Missouri law, the will must be: In writing; Signed by the testator or by another person at the testator’s direction and in the testator’s presence; Signed and attested by two competent witnesses The require…
- Is it Worth it to Claim Unclaimed Property?
2020-07-11
It is common for many people to have unclaimed property held by the State. Unclaimed property can result from dormant back accounts, unclaimed dividends, and life insurance policies. Many times after someone dies, family members will check …
- Missouri Supreme Court: No Excusable Neglect For Surviving Spouse Who Disregarded Probate Court’s Orders To Obtain Appointment As Personal Representative
2021-03-18
In Holmes v. Holmes , a March 2021 opinion from the Missouri Supreme Court, the Court reviewed a probate court’s ruling finding no excusable neglect and barring a surviving spouse’s petition to file an amended petition to pursue a wrongful …
- Surviving Spouse Rights Missouri
2019-09-27
Surviving spouses have important rights (also called widow's rights) under Missouri law, including: Intestate Share Elective Share Exempt Property Surviving Spouse Rights in Missouri If There Is No Valid Will When a decedent dies without a …
- Who Are Next Of Kin In Missouri?
2020-08-10
The term “next of kin” under Missouri law generally means those that would inherit from a decedent if the decedent died intestate (without a will). Unless a contrary intent is shown, “next of kin” is used synonymously with heirs at law, par…
- Who Can Serve as Personal Representative Of a Missouri Estate?
2022-01-06
In order to serve as the personal representative of a Missouri probate estate, the person must be: At least 18 years old; and, Of sound mind. See Mo. Rev. Stat. § 473.117 . Who Cannot Serve As a Personal Representative In Missouri? The foll…