Probate Lawyer St. Peters, MO – Legacy Law Center
Guiding Families Through Missouri’s Probate Process with Skill and Compassion
Whether you’re preparing to go through probate, managing a family dispute, or seeking to avoid probate altogether, an experienced probate lawyer can make the process smoother, faster, and less stressful. At Legacy Law Center, we’ve built a trusted reputation in St. Peters and surrounding Missouri communities by helping families navigate every stage of probate and estate administration.
When You Should Consider Hiring a Probate Lawyer
While you aren’t legally required to hire an attorney for probate, it can be especially valuable when:
- The estate includes high-value assets, multiple properties, or business interests
- There are family disputes or contested wills
- No will exists, making the process more complex
- The estate owes significant taxes or debts
- Property is located in multiple states or countries
We’ll guide you through Missouri’s specific probate rules and help you avoid costly mistakes.
The Probate Process in Missouri – Step by Step
While every estate is unique, most Missouri probate cases follow these general stages:
1. Filing the Petition
The executor (or an appointed representative if no will exists) files the will with the probate court in the county where the decedent lived. A hearing is scheduled, and notice is sent to beneficiaries and published in the local legal notices.
2. Appointment of Executor
Once the court approves, the executor is officially appointed and begins managing the estate.
3. Notification & Inventory
Creditors are notified and given a deadline to file claims. The executor gathers and inventories all assets—real estate, accounts, personal property, and business interests—sometimes with appraisals for valuation.
4. Payment of Debts & Expenses
Funeral costs, taxes, creditor claims, and other approved expenses are paid from the estate. The executor may need to sell assets to cover these obligations.
5. Distribution to Beneficiaries
Once debts are settled and any disputes resolved, the court authorizes the executor to distribute remaining assets according to the will (or Missouri law if no will exists).
Challenging a Will in Missouri
A will can be challenged during probate, but there are strict deadlines:
- Before the probate hearing: File an objection to the probate petition.
- After the hearing: In Missouri, you generally have up to 120 days from the date the will is admitted to probate to file a challenge.
Common legal grounds to contest a will include:
- Improper execution – Missing required signatures or witnesses.
- Lack of capacity – The decedent was not mentally competent when signing.
- Undue influence – The decedent was coerced or manipulated into certain provisions.
- Fraud – The decedent was deceived into signing the will or including certain terms.
Will contests can be complex and emotionally charged. Our attorneys can assess the validity of a claim and represent your interests in court.
Understanding Probate Bonds
In many Missouri probate cases, the court requires the executor (or personal representative) to post a probate bond—a type of insurance guaranteeing they will follow the law and the will’s terms.
- Cost: Usually starts at about 0.5% of the total bond amount (non-refundable)
- Types: Executor Bond, Administrator Bond, Personal Representative Bond, Trustee Bond, Conservatorship Bond
- Purpose: Protects beneficiaries and creditors if the executor mishandles the estate
Some wills waive the bond requirement. We can help determine if a bond applies in your case and assist with the bonding process.
Avoiding Probate in Missouri
While probate is sometimes unavoidable, you can take steps to simplify or bypass it:
- Create a revocable living trust – Transfers assets directly to beneficiaries without probate
- Hold property in joint tenancy with right of survivorship – Automatically transfers ownership to the surviving co-owner
- Name beneficiaries – On bank accounts, retirement plans, insurance policies, and certain real estate deeds
- Gift property during your lifetime – Reduces the estate’s value and assets subject to probate
We can help you design an estate plan that minimizes probate’s costs and delays.
Probate FAQs
How long does probate take?
Simple estates may close within a year. Complex estates, contested wills, or multi-state property can extend the process.
How much does probate cost in Missouri?
Probate fees are based on the estate’s value—starting at 5% for the first $5,000, with reduced percentages for higher amounts.
Which court handles probate?
Generally, the probate court in the county where the decedent last lived. Out-of-state property must be probated in that state.
Am I personally responsible for the decedent’s debts?
Executors and spouses are typically not liable unless they co-signed or jointly incurred the debt.
Is it necessary to hire a probate lawyer?
Not legally—but having one can save time, reduce errors, and prevent disputes.
Why Choose Legacy Law Center for Probate in St. Peters, MO?
- Local knowledge – We understand Missouri probate laws and local court procedures
- Full-service guidance – From filing to asset distribution and will contests
- Proven experience – Trusted by families throughout St. Peters and beyond
Speak with a St. Peters Probate Lawyer Today
Probate doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Since 2012, Legacy Law Center has helped Missouri families protect their loved ones’ wishes and settle estates with clarity and care.
Call Now: (636) 486-2669
Offices: 4215 Old Hwy 94 S, St Charles, MO 63304 (by appointment)
Or request a confidential consultation using our secure online form.
