ATTORNEY PROFILE

A will is a legal document that sets forth your wishes regarding the distribution of your property and the care of any minor children. To maximize the likelihood that your wishes are carried out, you want a will that is set forth in writing and signed by you and your witnesses. If your will does not meet these standards, your instructions may not be carried out.

A trust is a fiduciary arrangement that allows a third party, or trustee, to hold assets on behalf of a beneficiary or beneficiaries. Trusts can be arranged in many ways and can specify exactly how and when the assets pass to the beneficiaries.

Believe it or not, you have an estate. In fact, nearly everyone does. Your estate is comprised of everything you own, your car, home, other real estate, checking and savings accounts, investments, life insurance, furniture, personal possessions. We can help you with a detailed plan to divide your assets in the event of your death.

Family law is a relatively broad legal practice area that covers marriage, divorce, child custody, adoption, and other matters. For instance, a victim of domestic violence may seek a protective order and perhaps a modification of child custody.

Probate is the legal process that occurs after a person also known as a decedent, dies with or without a valid will. If the decedent dies with a valid will, then the property is distributed according to the will. If a person dies without a will, then Missouri's probate law dictates how the decedent's assets are distributed.

Traffic violations are criminal acts that violate the rules of driving. Most violations are considered minor infractions. They usually will not have serious consequences. However, some violations, such as driving while under the influence, can be considered major criminal offenses. In addition, minor violations can have serious consequences if there are several infractions over a short period. These violations can lead to fines, license suspension and even jail time.