O'Donnell Law Center : Lake of the Ozarks

The probate process is put in place to address a deceased person’s final debts and distribute their remaining estate. Going into probate can seem overwhelming for many but it doesn’t have to be as stressful as you might think. With an experienced estate planning attorney near the Lake of the Ozarks on your side, you can feel better prepared for the obstacles that lie ahead. Learn some tips that can make preparing for probate a bit easier. Be Transparent with Family The death of a loved one is an emotionally challenging time for those who have been left behind and adding the stresses of handling their estate to the mix can leave high tensions for the family. While you are still able to make an impact, it’s best to be open and up front with your family about your wishes and expectations. We understand each family has their own unique dynamics and the decisions are ultimately up to you, but we find it can be easier if key family members know in advance what’s happening with the es...

A family member’s assets going to probate can sound like an intimidating – sometimes scary – process. While it’s not the ideal situation, our Lake of the Ozarks law firm is here to help ease your family through this time. Probate is where your assets will go to be decided who will get what, if the affairs of the deceased have not been decided ahead of time. Not everyone has the opportunity to get their affairs in perfect order before they pass, so sometimes going to probate court is unavoidable.  Probate court can be necessary when there is no will, there is a will and non-probate transfers were insufficient to pass title to your property immediately upon your death, there is a dispute over who your property should go to, or a loved one is in need of a court appointed guardian or conservator. Sometimes a death in the family followed by questions about how the property is going to be distributed triggers intense emotions and disagreements among family members that are akin t...