Do you have minor children?
Then the answer is most likely yes.
A will is the only legally effective way to communicate guardianship upon death.
If something happens to both parents, who will take care of the children? Most parents have discussed the question, but have they made it legal? Having a conversation with a desired guardian or other friend doesn’t then guarantee that your children will go to that person. A will is the ONLY way to state your wishes for guardianship. If you do not state your wishes there, the court will make that decision without your input, and will most likely choose an older sibling.
Although in Missouri, a will always goes through a probate process, a will written with the professional advice of an attorney can ease the transfer of assets and can make probate faster and less expensive. It can also assign a person to be responsible for assets until probate is complete.
If you live in St. Louis City or County, St. Charles County or Warren County, Burkhardt Law offers a free estate planning consultation to help determine your exact needs. Complete our free consultation request now and ask for a free estate planning consultation.