Understanding Probate Law in Kansas City, MO

When a loved one passes away in Missouri or Kansas, his or her estate may go through a court-managed process called "probate" or "estate administration" in which the assets of the deceased are managed and distributed. If your loved one owned his or her assets through a well-drafted and properly funded living trust, it is likely that no court-managed administration is necessary, although the successor trustee needs to administer the distribution of the deceased's assets. The length of time needed to complete the probate of an estate depends on the size and complexity of the estate and the local rules and schedule of the probate court.

Quinn & Quinn Law, P.C. experienced probate attorneys can draft the necessary legal documents that will keep your estate out of probate or, if probate is necessary, help you navigate the process to ensure that a loved one's estate is properly distributed.

The Probate Process

The process for managing every probate estate is unique, but most involve the following steps:

A petition is filed with the proper Missouri or Kansas probate court.
Notice is given to heirs under the will or, if no will exists, to statutory heirs.
A petition is filed to appoint executor (in the case of a will) or administrator for the estate.
The executor or administration perform an inventory and appraisal of the estate assets.
Payment of estate debt is made to rightful creditors.
Estate assets are sold.
Estate taxes are paid, if applicable.
The final distribution of assets is made to heirs.