When family property, trusts, and inheritance collide, disputes can escalate quickly—and mistakes by trial courts can dramatically alter outcomes. In Norris v. Lamm, the Missouri Court of Appeals sent an important message: courts must follow strict procedural rules before dismissing claims, espec...
When a loved one passes away, families often assume that if a valid will exists, it will eventually control how the estate is distributed. Unfortunately, Missouri law does not work that way. A recent Missouri Court of Appeals decision serves as a clear warning: even a properly signed will can bec...
Guardianship and conservatorship proceedings are often emotionally charged, especially when family members disagree about what is best for an aging parent. A recent decision from the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, highlights how strictly Missouri courts apply procedural rules in th...
When a loved one can no longer safely manage their personal care or finances, families often find themselves facing difficult and unfamiliar legal terrain. In Missouri, the legal tools designed to protect vulnerable individuals are guardianships and conservatorships. While these proceedings are common in probate court, they are highly technical and require strict compliance with statutory requirements. Understanding the basics can help families prepare and avoid costly delays.
When families disagree about the care and finances of an aging loved one, emotions can run high—and legal missteps can have lasting consequences. A recent Missouri Court of Appeals decision highlights how strictly courts enforce procedural rules in guardianship and conservatorship cases, and why timing and consistency matter when challenging probate court rulings.