Estate planning built around your goals, your values, your family

Planning That Reflects Real Life

Estate planning is about more than legal paperwork. It’s about making decisions now that save your family time, money, and confusion later. At James & James Law, PC, we help Missouri families build thoughtful, legally sound plans that hold up when it counts.

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What We Help You Create

Depending on your needs, your estate plan may include:

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Last will and testament

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Living trusts

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Powers of attorney

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Advance directives (health care wishes)

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Guardianship arrangements for children or adults

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Property transfer documents

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Business or asset succession planning

We walk through your goals, explain the options in plain terms, and make sure your documents comply with Missouri law.

Local Experience You Can Trust

We work with families across St. Louis City, St. Louis County, St. Charles and surrounding communities—often alongside financial advisors or elder care professionals—to align legal, medical, and financial goals.

Start Where You Are

Whether you're planning for young children or updating an older will, our team will meet you where you are. No lectures. No pressure. Just clear next steps.

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Estate Planning in Missouri

  • When should I update my plan?

    After major life changes—marriage, divorce, birth, death, relocation, or large asset changes.  We also recommend clients review their plans every five years even if no major life changes have occurred.

  • Do I need both a will and a trust?

    Not always. Trusts can help avoid probate and add control, but wills are essential. We’ll help you decide what’s appropriate.

  • Can I name guardians in my estate plan?

    Yes. You can name guardians for minor children and request future care arrangements for vulnerable adults.

  • Will this protect my home from probate?

    With the right planning, yes. We use deeds, trusts, and transfer tools to keep your home out of court.

  • Can grandparents seek visitation?

    Yes, under certain conditions. Missouri allows grandparents to request visitation if it’s in the child’s best interest.