Bio
James E. Beal helps individuals, families, and fiduciaries plan for the future, administer estates and trusts, protect vulnerable loved ones, and resolve disputes. He has practiced law since 2006.
His practice focuses on estate planning, probate administration, trust administration, guardianship and conservatorship, and trust, estate, and fiduciary litigation. Licensed in Missouri and Illinois, James provides estate-planning services to clients in both states, including families with property and connections on both sides of the river.
His estate-planning work includes wills, powers of attorney, revocable living trusts, selected irrevocable trusts, and coordination of property ownership and beneficiary designations. His administration practice includes advising personal representatives and trustees about their responsibilities, accountings, distributions, and the practical work required after a death or incapacity.
James has tried cases before both judges and juries and has represented clients on appeal before the Missouri Court of Appeals. His experience includes contested probate and fiduciary matters, guardianship, conservatorship, mental health proceedings, and broader civil litigation.
A qualified Missouri civil and family mediator, he works to resolve matters through negotiation or mediation when that serves the client's interests, while preparing for contested proceedings when necessary. Throughout his career, he has maintained a commitment to pro bono service in housing, family law, and probate matters.
Education
- J.D., Washington University in St. Louis School of Law, 2006
- B.A., Loyola University Chicago, 2003
Licenses & Organizations
- Licensed in Missouri, 2006
- Licensed in Illinois, 2007
- Qualified Civil and Family Mediator, State of Missouri
- Member, The Missouri Bar
- Member, Illinois State Bar Association
Core Practice Areas
- Estate Planning
- Probate Administration
- Trust Administration
- Guardianship & Conservatorship
- Trust, Estate & Fiduciary Litigation
Illinois estate planning | Other Practice Areas
Contact James
Call (314) 227-1014 or contact our office to discuss your matter.