Probate is the process by which a decedent's property, known as the "estate," is passed to the individuals or entities named in their will or in accordance with law if the decedent did not have a Will. The entire process, under jurisdiction of the probate court, takes from six months to two years depending on the complexity of the estate.

Probate is the court process used to determine the validity of a will and oversee the payment of creditors and distribution of estate assets. Even if there is no valid will at the time of death, the estate will still go through the probate procedure. Since probate is regulated by state laws, there are specific procedures proscribed by each state for carrying out the process.

Most people do not have the experience to execute a Will or administer an estate properly. Our attorneys can assist the Executor of a Will or trustee with the initial proceedings to petition to probate an estate. We will help ensure the proper proceedings and notifications take place to legally dissolve a loved one's estate according to his/her wishes.

St. Louis probate attorney Chris Cox understands that distributing an estate while grieving the loss of a loved one can be over overwhelming.  We strive to make this a simple and painless process.

Mr. Cox has significant legal experience helping people plan their estates and guiding people through the probate process with efficiency and ease. Contact our estate planning and probate law firm to schedule a meeting to learn how we can help you during this time.