When To Hire A Probate Attorney

Finder Law Serves Clients Across Jefferson City, Columbia, and Central Missouri

Kara McNabb • March 25, 2025

When Should You Hire a Probate Attorney in Missouri?

Dealing with the death of a loved one is never easy. In addition to the emotional toll, you may find yourself navigating the complex legal process of probate. Probate is the legal procedure through which a deceased person’s estate is administered, and it can involve a range of legal challenges that require expert knowledge. While some may choose to handle probate on their own, hiring a probate attorney can save you time, stress, and potential complications. But how do you know when you should hire an attorney? Here’s a breakdown of when it makes sense to seek professional help.

1. When the Estate Involves Complex Assets

If the deceased person’s estate includes complex assets like real estate in multiple states, business interests, or significant investments, navigating probate can be difficult without legal expertise. A probate attorney will understand how to handle these types of assets and can help you ensure that everything is properly valued, filed, and distributed according to the will and Missouri law.



For instance, if the estate involves real property in Missouri and another state, a probate attorney can help you navigate the legal nuances of probate across jurisdictions. Without expert guidance, you could easily overlook key steps, causing delays or legal challenges down the line.

2. When There’s No Will (Intestate Succession)

If your loved one passed away without a will (intestate), the probate process in Missouri can become significantly more complicated. Without clear instructions on how to distribute the estate, the court will decide based on Missouri’s intestacy laws, which may not reflect what the deceased person would have wanted. A probate attorney can guide you through the intestate succession process, helping to ensure that heirs receive what they’re entitled to according to state law.

3. When There’s Disputes Among Heirs or Beneficiaries

Family conflicts are unfortunately common during the probate process, especially when multiple parties have different views on how the estate should be handled. Disputes over a will’s validity, inheritance shares, or the distribution of assets can make an already difficult situation even more stressful. A probate attorney can help mediate and resolve these disputes and ensure the probate process continues smoothly without further legal entanglements. If litigation becomes necessary, a probate attorney will also represent your interests in court.

4. When the Estate Includes a Trust

Some people may create a trust as part of their estate plan, which can often bypass the formal probate process. However, trusts come with their own set of rules and requirements. If the estate includes a trust, a probate attorney is crucial to help you understand the terms of the trust, handle the proper distribution of assets, and ensure the trust is administered according to the deceased’s wishes. A probate attorney can also help if there are any issues regarding the trust’s validity or distribution.

5. When You Don’t Have the Time or Knowledge to Handle Probate

Probate can be time-consuming and confusing. Even if the estate is relatively straightforward, managing the paperwork, meeting deadlines, and ensuring all legal requirements are met can be overwhelming. If you’re already juggling work, family responsibilities, or other personal matters, a probate attorney can help you navigate the process and ensure things are handled properly.

6. When There Are Debts or Creditor Claims

If the deceased person’s estate has outstanding debts, it’s essential to address these claims during the probate process. Creditors have a legal right to make claims against the estate, and Missouri law sets guidelines for how these debts should be handled. A probate attorney can help you determine which debts need to be paid, how to prioritize payments, and whether any creditors are making improper claims. Failing to deal with debts properly could result in personal liability for the executor or administrator of the estate.

7. When You Need Help With Tax Issues

Probate involves more than just distributing assets. The estate may be subject to state and federal taxes, including estate taxes, inheritance taxes, and income taxes. A probate attorney can help you navigate these tax requirements and ensure that the estate complies with Missouri’s tax laws. They can also assist with filing the necessary tax returns on behalf of the estate, ensuring that taxes are paid in a timely manner to avoid penalties.

8. When You’re an Executor or Personal Representative

If you’ve been named the executor or personal representative of the estate, you may be wondering how to fulfill your duties while also adhering to Missouri’s probate laws. The responsibilities of an executor include managing the deceased person’s assets, paying debts, filing taxes, and distributing assets to beneficiaries. A probate attorney can guide you through these duties, ensuring you comply with all legal requirements and avoid personal liability.

9. When You’re Unsure About the Probate Process

If you’re unsure whether you need an attorney or don’t know where to start, consulting with a probate attorney in Missouri can provide clarity. They can review the situation, explain your options, and help you make an informed decision about how to proceed with probate. The sooner you consult an attorney, the more smoothly the process will likely go.

Conclusion

While not every probate case requires an attorney, many estates involve situations where hiring a probate lawyer can be incredibly beneficial. Whether you’re dealing with complex assets, disputes among beneficiaries, or navigating the probate process for the first time, a Missouri probate attorney can provide valuable expertise, ensure compliance with state laws, and reduce the risk of complications. If you find yourself in any of the situations mentioned above, it’s time to consider bringing in professional legal assistance to help guide you through the probate process. Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC has over 10 years of experience in probate law & estate planning & can help guide you through this process.


Call our office today to schedule a consultation.

This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For specific guidance, please contact our office directly.

Options for Missouri Business Owners to Collect Unpaid Debts

By Alyssa Finder • February 18, 2026
Running a business in Missouri often involves extending credit to customers, clients, or other businesses. While most customers pay their bills on time, unpaid debts can create significant cash flow issues and affect the overall health of your business. Fortunately, Missouri law provides several avenues for business owners to pursue collection of unpaid debts.  Understanding your options and the proper legal procedures can help you recover the money you are owed efficiently and effectively.

Cooper County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 13, 2026
A two-vehicle crash occurred on Wednesday evening on I-70 in Cooper County. At 5:48 pm, a Sedalia man driving a 2012 Nissan Frontier went off the roadway on Westbound I-70 in Cooper County to avoid the driver of a 2021 Westenstar 4700. The Nissan then went off the right side of the roadway and overturned. The driver of the 2021 Westenstar 4700 was taken to University Hospital by ambulance with minor injuries. Highway crashes are often especially dangerous because of higher speeds, heavier traffic, and limited reaction time, which can turn even a brief mistake into a serious collision. Victims frequently suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal and neck injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and time away from work. If you or a loved one has been hurt in a highway crash, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your legal options and pursue the compensation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Montgomery County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 13, 2026
A staff member suffered minor injuries when a Montgomery County school bus was hit by a car Wednesday morning. The Montgomery County R-2 bus was hit at about 7:30 a.m. on Highway 19 near Route WW just north of New Florence, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report. A Hyundai Elantra driven by a 35-year-old Wellsville woman hit the bus after crossing the center line, the patrol reported. The Hyundai driver was taken by ambulance to Lake St. Louis Hospital with moderate injuries. The injured school employee, 63, of High Hill, was taken to the Hermann Area District Hospital with minor injuries. The one student on the bus was not hurt, said Superintendent Brian White. When a vehicle crosses the center line on a highway, the resulting crash is often violent due to high speeds and the risk of a head-on impact. These collisions frequently cause traumatic brain injuries, neck and spinal injuries, broken bones, internal organ damage, and severe soft-tissue injuries that can have lasting effects. In the most serious cases, victims are left facing long-term medical care, lost income, and permanent disabilities. If you or a loved one has been injured in a center-line crash, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your legal options and protect your right to full compensation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

Navigating Custody Disagreements After a Modification in Missouri

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
Custody arrangements in Missouri are designed to be flexible to reflect the best interests of the child. Even after a court has modified a parenting plan, disagreements between parents can still arise. Issues such as extracurricular activity costs, changes in school or school districts, and other daily parenting decisions can create tension and confusion.  Understanding how to navigate custody disagreements after a modification can help parents protect their rights and maintain stability for their children.

Cole County Pedestrian Injury

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
A vehicle hit a pedestrian on a Cole County road Friday morning, closing it for an hour. Sgt. Kyle Green with the Missouri State Highway Patrol said troopers were investigating the pedestrian crash on Route Y near Helias Road just after 9 a.m. Green said the pedestrian was hurt, but he did not know the severity of those injuries. An ABC 17 News photographer on scene saw law enforcement and Cole County EMS. A photographer said first responders opened the road back up just after 10 a.m. A Missouri State Highway Patrol crash report says a 39-year-old Gravois Mills man was seriously injured in the crash and was brought to University Hospital by ambulance. The report says a 21-year-old Jefferson City man drove a 2008 Chevrolet Impala and failed to yield to a stationary vehicles stopped in the roadway. The man drove the Chevrolet across the center of the roadway and hit the pedestrian, the report says. An MSHP spokesman told ABC 17 News that the pedestrian was hit after they stepped off a trash truck. The Chevrolet had extensive damage and the driver had no reported injuries. When a pedestrian is struck by a vehicle, the results are often catastrophic. Without the protection of a car’s frame, even a low-speed impact can cause devastating injuries such as fractures, internal trauma, or permanent disability. Medical costs, lost income, and long-term recovery can quickly become overwhelming. If you or someone you love has been hit by a car, you don’t have to face the aftermath alone— contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC for skilled personal injury representation and compassionate guidance every step of the way. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KMIZ.

Montgomery County Single Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • February 11, 2026
Two men were seriously injured Wednesday afternoon in a pickup truck crash on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County. A 60-year-old Owensville man was severely injured Wednesday afternoon in a single- vehicle accident on Missouri Route 19 in Montgomery County. According to a Missouri State Highway Patrol (MSHP) crash report, the incident happened around 4:09 p.m. when a southbound 2015 Toyota Tundra pickup truck ran off the roadway near Loutre Bend Road, careened down an embankment, and crashed into multiple trees. A passenger, identified as a 60-year-old Owensville man, was ejected and severely injured. He was transported to University Hospital for treatment. The 28-year-old St. Clair man driving was brought to Mercy Hospital. Car crashes can cause devastating injuries. A momentary distraction can lead to serious consequences such as broken bones, spinal damage, or traumatic brain injuries—often leaving victims with lasting pain and financial strain. If you or a loved one has been injured, contact Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your rights and explore your options for recovery. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and The Legal Advocate.

Understanding Contempt of Court in Missouri: What It Means and Consequences

By Alyssa Finder • February 4, 2026
Being held in contempt of court in Missouri is a serious legal matter that can have significant consequences. Contempt occurs when an individual disobeys a court order, disrupts court proceedings, or otherwise fails to comply with the authority of the court. Understanding the types of contempt, reasons someone may be held in contempt, and the potential consequences is essential for anyone involved in legal proceedings.

Breach of Contract Cases in Missouri: What You Need to Know

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
Contracts are a fundamental part of everyday life and business in Missouri. From employment agreements and real estate transactions to service contracts and business partnerships, contracts help define each party’s rights and obligations. When one party fails to live up to their end of the bargain, a breach of contract may occur —often leading to financial loss, disputes, and potential litigation. If you believe a contract has been breached, understanding Missouri contract law and your legal options is an important first step.

Morgan County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 28, 2026
A rear-end accident along MO-52 left two men injured on Wednesday afternoon near Quarry Ln, prompting a response from area emergency services. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the crash occurred at approximately 3:30 p.m. when a 2023 Ford Transit van, driven westbound by a 33-year-old man from Eldon, struck the rear of a 2001 Dodge Dakota that was stopped in the westbound lane. The impact caused significant damage to both vehicles, with the Dakota sustaining total damage. Both came to rest on the roadway facing westbound. The driver of the Dodge, a 72-year-old man from Versailles, was not wearing a seatbelt and sustained moderate injuries. He was transported by Mid-Mo Ambulance to Lake Regional Hospital for further treatment. The Ford driver initially refused care but was later listed with moderate injuries and taken to the same facility. Garbers Towing removed both vehicles from the scene as troopers with Troop F completed their investigation. The cause of the crash remains under review. Rear-end crashes may seem minor at first, but they often cause serious and lasting injuries. Victims commonly suffer whiplash, neck and back injuries, herniated discs, concussions, spinal injuries, and soft-tissue damage that can worsen over time. The sudden force of being struck from behind can also lead to chronic pain, limited mobility, and missed time from work, even when vehicle damage appears minimal. If you or a loved one was injured in a rear-end collision, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to discuss your options and get experienced personal injury representation. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol.

Audrain County Car Crash

By Alyssa Finder • January 27, 2026
Missouri State Highway Patrol troopers are investigating a crash that left one person dead involving two tractor trailers and one SUV, according to MSHP Troop F Sgt. Kyle Green. The crash happened between Centralia and Mexico on Missouri 22, near Audrain Road 215, according to an MSHP post. As of 9 a.m. Wednesday, the Missouri Department of Transportation planned to keep the highway closed for at least four more hours, according to Little Dixie Fire Protection District Chief Jason Henry. Emergency crews were first dispatched on reports of a semitruck on fire a few hours earlier that morning, Henry said. They were then paged again, but this time on reports of a second semitruck being rolled over and an SUV involved in the crash, according to the fire chief. Henry told KOMU 8 it appeared the SUV driver was ejected from the vehicle, adding the scene remains active. KOMU 8 was on the scene and saw one of the trucks involved was an Ameren vehicle. When a car is hit by a semi-truck, the sheer size and weight of the truck often lead to catastrophic injuries. Victims may suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, crushed or broken bones, internal organ injuries, severe burns, and permanent disabilities, even in crashes that happen at relatively low speeds. These collisions frequently result in long recovery periods, overwhelming medical bills, and time away from work, while trucking companies and insurers move quickly to protect themselves. If you or someone you love has been injured in a crash involving a semi, call Daniel Finder at Finder Law, LLC to protect your rights and pursue the personal injury compensation you deserve. All facts of the incident are based on preliminary reporting done by The Missouri State Highway Patrol and KOMU.