Probate Attorney in Independence, Missouri
Independence, Missouri has a legal process known as "probate." This is when a court decides whether or not a will is valid, and, accordingly, whether or not to effectuate its provisions.
During probate, the court in Independence, Missouri will determine the validity of the will, identify and inventory the decedent's assets, account for the decedent's debts and back taxes, and distribute the decedent's property, among other things.
Most wills name a specific person as the executor of the estate, but sometimes they don't, or the named executor is dead, out of the court's jurisdiction, or otherwise unfit to serve in this capacity. In these cases, a Independence, Missouri probate court has to appoint one.
The main duty of the executor is to serve as the living incarnation of the estate. Their job is to initiate probate proceedings, and see them to completion. If an executor has to be appointed by the court, it will usually be the person who stands to inherit the most from the will, as he or she has an incentive to make every effort to avoid delay.
Duties of the Executor in Independence, Missouri
The executor has many duties concerning the will. First of all, they have to actually initiate the probate proceedings with the court, and this procedure has to be completed before the will takes effect.
They also are required to provide notice to the people with a direct interest in the estate that the decedent has died, usually by filing a death certificate.
Executors are also required to make available an accounting of the testator's debts and assets, so their affairs can be wound up, along with a list of everyone who is named in the will, or otherwise stands to inherit.
Furthermore, the executor is required to take a leading role in proving the validity of the will. The executor obviously has an incentive to see the process through, since they cannot inherit until probate is complete.
Find a Independence Lawyer that Specializes in Your Area of Need:
How Can A Independence, Missouri Lawyer Help?
Because this can be (though isn't always) a fairly complex process, it's a good idea to get a good probate lawyer in Independence, Missouri, especially if you find yourself being the executor of an estate, and aren't sure how to proceed.
There are 30 Wills, Trusts and Estates cases posted in Independence
Cases Posted to LegalMatch listed by ZIP Code:Probate Attorneys in the Largest MO Cities
Life in Independence
Independence, Missouri was home to former President Harry S. Truman. Not surprisingly, the city has lots to offer to show the life and times of the loved president. In Independence, a visitor can ride the "Truman Trolley", tour his old street, visit the soda fountain on Main street where Truman had his first job, see where he went to school, and other presidential points of interest.
Independence is the fourth largest city in the entire state of Missouri and home to over 100,000 residents -- also making it the 20th largest city in the United States. Independence was founded in 1827 and also serves as the headquarters for the Latter Day Saints Movement and played a major role in the development of this religion. There are also many great public and private schools located in Independence, making the city a great place to raise children.
Independence has a lot of Civil War History that provides its residents and visitors with plenty historial sites to admire. Museums, sporting events, and cultural sites make Independence a great place to visit and live. Independence is also home to many talented lawyers. Independence lawyers are skilled in a range of legal specialities and able to help their clients with any legal issue they may find themselves confronted with.
