A will is a legal document that states how your property is to be distributed upon your death. It is also the only document where you can set forth your preference as to who you want to be appointed as guardian of your minor children after your death. A will does not avoid the necessity of probate. If you die without a will, your property will be distributed pursuant to a predetermined scheme set forth in a Missouri state statute.
The advantages of having a will include the following:
- You decide how and when your property is to be distributed
- You can name a guardian of your minor children
- You can name a personal representative, the person responsible for carrying out the directives in your will.
A will can be amended or revoked by you at any time. We recommend reviewing your will on a regular basis, and in particular, upon the occurrence of any life change (e.g., divorce, marriage, additional children, increase in your estate value, change in beneficiaries, etc.) If any changes need to be made, the necessary documents can easily be drafted by our office.
The Law Office of Christopher P. Cox, L.L.C., listens to your wishes, offers suggestions, and drafts personalized documents that meet your specific needs. There is no substitute for skilled legal advice in this area. Please feel free to contact our office to schedule an initial consultation.
Contact Us
For help with any of your estate planning needs, contact the Law Office of Christopher P. Cox, L.L.C. We accept credit cards, are located one block from the St. Louis County Courthouse, and charge reasonable fees. To contact us, call 314.450.8039 or 866.882.2556.
