St. Louis Wills Attorneys Helping Individuals and Families Throughout the Area

St. Louis is home to a wide range of households, from young professionals and growing families to long-time residents with deep roots in the community. No matter your stage of life, a will provides a clear way to put important decisions in writing and avoid leaving those choices to Missouri law.

A will allows you to decide how property should be handled and who should be responsible for carrying out those instructions. Without one, the state applies default rules that may not reflect personal relationships or priorities. Stange Law Firm, PC works with individuals across St. Louis, including those who visit our Clayton office, to help ensure their wishes are clearly documented.

How a Will Functions Under Missouri Law

A last will and testament is a legal document that explains how property should be distributed after death and identifies the person responsible for carrying out those directions. Missouri law requires a will to meet specific signing and witnessing requirements to be considered valid. If those steps are not followed, the document may be challenged or set aside.

After death, a will is typically submitted to the court so its instructions can be followed. When a will is clearly written and properly executed, the process often proceeds with fewer delays and misunderstandings for loved ones.

Practical Decisions a St. Louis Will Can Address

Every will is different, but many people use a will to clarify issues such as:

• Who should receive specific personal belongings or property
• How remaining assets should be divided
• Who should be responsible for carrying out final instructions
• Who should care for minor children if both parents pass away

Putting these decisions in writing helps reduce uncertainty and provides guidance during an emotional time.

Executors, Guardians, and Responsibility After Death

A will names an executor, sometimes referred to as a personal representative. This individual is responsible for managing tasks such as locating property, paying outstanding obligations, and carrying out distributions according to the will. Choosing someone who is dependable and organized can make the process easier for everyone involved.

For parents of minor children, a will also allows you to name a guardian. While the court makes the final determination, a written designation provides important guidance and can help prevent disagreements among family members.

Living Wills and Medical Decision Instructions

Some individuals also prepare a living will. A living will focuses on medical care preferences if you are unable to communicate decisions yourself. This document applies during periods of incapacity and provides direction to family members and healthcare providers.

While a living will addresses medical treatment, a last will and testament governs matters that take effect after death. Addressing both topics allows individuals to make decisions thoughtfully and in advance.

Why Having a Will Matters in St. Louis

Without a valid will, Missouri’s intestate succession laws control how property is distributed. These laws follow a fixed formula and do not consider personal intent. This can lead to unexpected outcomes, particularly for:

• Unmarried partners
• Blended families with stepchildren
• Individuals who wish to leave property to friends or extended relatives

Creating a will is the most reliable way to avoid these results and ensure that your wishes are known.

Is a Will Still Useful If Your Estate Is Simple

A will is not limited to individuals with extensive assets. Even modest property, personal belongings, and family responsibilities can benefit from written direction. A will helps loved ones understand what steps need to be taken and who is responsible for handling them.

Clear instructions often reduce disputes, streamline court involvement, and provide peace of mind long before the will is ever needed.

Contact a St. Louis Wills Lawyer to Schedule an Initial Consultation

Stange Law Firm, PC works with individuals throughout St. Louis to prepare wills that comply with Missouri law and provide clear guidance. Thoughtful preparation can help avoid unnecessary confusion and reduce the likelihood of disputes later.

To schedule an initial consultation with Stange Law Firm, PC, call 855-805-0595 or contact us online.

St. Louis (Clayton), Missouri Office (314-963-4700) | 120 S. Central Avenue, Suite 450, Clayton, Missouri 63105