After a death, families are often left with unfamiliar responsibilities: locating assets, understanding the will, dealing with financial institutions, and determining whether a probate case is necessary. Beal & Whitener LLP helps families and personal representatives move from uncertainty to an organized plan.
James E. Beal represents clients in Missouri decedent estate administration, from the initial assessment through the final distribution and closing of the estate. From our Clayton office, we serve St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles County, Jefferson County, and surrounding communities.
Discuss a probate administration or call (314) 227-1014. You can contact us before all documents and account information have been gathered.
Start with the Right Administration Process
Not every asset passes through probate, and not every estate needs the same procedure. We review how assets are owned, any beneficiary designations, the estate documents, and the family's circumstances before recommending the appropriate next steps. Where a simplified procedure is available, we evaluate whether it fits the estate.
Guidance for Personal Representatives and Executors
Serving as personal representative involves legal duties as well as practical work. Our assistance may include:
- Reviewing the will and identifying heirs and beneficiaries.
- Preparing the filings needed to open an estate and seek appointment.
- Identifying, collecting, and protecting estate property.
- Preparing inventories and advising on required notices and records.
- Evaluating creditor claims and estate expenses.
- Addressing the sale or transfer of real estate and personal property.
- Coordinating with accountants on tax-related administration questions.
- Preparing accountings, proposed distributions, and closing documents.
When There Is No Will or the Family Disagrees
We assist with estates involving missing documents, uncertain ownership, family disagreements, or concerns about the handling of property. When administration develops into trust or estate litigation, we can evaluate claims involving estate assets, the validity of a will, or a fiduciary's conduct and pursue an appropriate resolution.
Probate and Trust Administration Can Overlap
A family may need help with both an estate and trust administration. We review the relationship between the documents and the assets so that the administration addresses the full situation. Having a trust does not by itself answer whether every asset was properly coordinated with the plan.
Practical Advice from an Experienced Probate Lawyer
James has practiced law since 2006 and represents families, personal representatives, heirs, and other interested parties in probate matters. We define whom we represent, explain the anticipated work, and discuss fees at the beginning of the engagement.
Discuss an Estate Administration
Call (314) 227-1014 or contact our office. Bring the will, death certificate, recent account statements, deeds, and a list of family members if available. You can contact us before you have assembled everything.
Questions About Starting Probate
Do I need every document before contacting you?
No. Bring the will, death certificate, deeds, account statements, and a list of family members if available. We can help identify what additional information is needed.
Does every estate need the same probate process?
No. The appropriate process depends on ownership, beneficiary designations, documents, and the circumstances of the estate. We assess whether probate or a simplified procedure is appropriate.