David S. Schleiffarth

David S. Schleiffarth

The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC
  • Estate Planning
  • Missouri
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Biography

The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC is an estate planning law firm located in Webster Groves, MO. We are passionate about protecting the people and things you care about! Estate planning helps you care for loved ones, make financial & health care decisions, manage the distribution of your property, and minimize unnecessary taxes & expenses. Let us make your goals our goals! Call, text, or email today!

Education
Saint Louis University School of Law
J.D. (2018) | Law
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Honors: Dean's Scholarship
Saint Louis University School of Law Logo
Brigham Young University-Idaho
B.S. (2010) | Sociology
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Honors: Academic Excellence Scholarship
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Professional Experience
Attorney, Managing Member
The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC
- Current
The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC is an estate planning law firm located in Webster Groves, MO. We are passionate about protecting the people and things you care about! Estate planning helps you care for loved ones, make financial & health care decisions, manage the distribution of your property, and minimize unnecessary taxes & expenses. Let us make your goals our goals! Call, text, or email today!
Publications
Articles & Publications
Qualified Spousal Trusts in Missouri
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How do I update my existing estate plan?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What happens if I don't have a Successor Trustee?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How does signing a deed work?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What happens to a Joint Trust when one spouse dies?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Why should I move my house into a Trust?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
The Most Common Reasons for Creating a Trust
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What is the best way to transfer real estate to a Trust?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Should I select the same individual as my power of attorney and successor trustee?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What happens to my Trust if I am incapacitated?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Can a Revocable Trust be amended?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What jobs do I pick when I create my estate plan?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What are the differences between a Will-based estate plan and a Trust-based estate plan?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Estate Planning for Parents with Young Children
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Can (and should) I select the same person as both Personal Representative and Successor Trustee?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How do I move personal property into my Trust?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What is a Certification of Trust? What is it used for?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What is the Gift Tax?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
A-B Trusts
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Disclaimer Trusts: Increased Flexibility in Tax Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Should I transfer my LLC ownership to my Trust?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
When should I consider a Trust Restatement?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Pet Trusts: Estate Planning for Pet Owners
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How do I name a Guardian for my children if I were to die unexpectedly?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Blended Family Estate Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Can my parents create a Will or Trust if they are seriously ill? When is it too late?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Estate Planning for Cryptocurrency
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Navigating the Intersection of Beneficiary Deeds, TODs, and Your Will
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Pour-Over Wills Are Crucial to Trust-Based Estate Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How Does a Trust Work?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What is the Difference Between a Will, a Living Will, and a Living Trust?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Irrevocable Medicaid Asset Protection Trusts in Missouri
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How Do I Revoke a Will in Missouri?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
A Look at Testamentary Trusts
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Types of Transfer Deeds in Missouri
LawOfficeDSS Blog
The Advantages of Trust-based Estate Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Prenuptial Agreements as an Estate Planning Tool
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Advance Health Care Directives: The Importance of Making Hard Decisions
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Can a Trust Be an IRA Beneficiary?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Estate Planning: Where Do I Begin?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Selecting a Personal Representative
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Talking to Your Parents About Estate Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Estate Planning During the COVID-19 Crisis
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Does a Will Protect My Property From Probate?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
When Should I Think About Getting an Estate Plan?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
How Do You "Fund" a Trust, After It Is Created?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Special Needs Trusts in Missouri
LawOfficeDSS Blog
What is an Estate Plan? What's Included?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
An Overview of Beneficiary Deeds
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Do I Need an Attorney, or Can I Use an Online Service for Estate Planning?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Who Should I Appoint as my Attorney-in-Fact in my Health Care Power of Attorney?
LawOfficeDSS Blog
“Durable” vs. “Springing” Power of Attorney
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Wills vs. Trusts
LawOfficeDSS Blog
A Walkthrough of Estate Planning
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Property Subject to Probate in Missouri
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Speaking Engagements
Frequently Asked Questions in Estate Planning
A Webinar and Q&A session. Answering questions clients frequently have about the estate planning process.
The Benefits of Estate Planning, Webinar
The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC
An overview of key estate planning documents and their benefits to clients.
Certifications
Licensed Attorney
Missouri State Bar
Awards
Dean's Scholarship
Saint Louis University School of Law
Professional Associations
Estate Planning Council of St. Louis
Member
- Current
Activities: The EPCSTL is a carefully selected group of qualified specialists in their own fields who have the necessary knowledge and experience to accomplish the broad goal of estate planning for the best interest of the client and his or her beneficiaries.
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Webster Groves-Shrewsbury-Rock Hill Chamber of Commerce
Member
- Current
Activities: The premier business organization in the Webster Groves-Shrewsbury-Rock Hill area. Serves, promotes, and helps advance the business interests and the communities of Webster Groves, Shrewsbury, and Rock Hill.
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City of Crestwood Economic Development Commission
Commissioner
- Current
Activities: The Economic Development Commission is set up to provide advice, build consensus, and make recommendations to the Mayor, Board of Aldermen, and City staff on matters relating to the economic goals and strategies of the City of Crestwood.
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The Missouri Bar
Member
- Current
Activities: The Missouri Bar was created in 1944 by order of the Supreme Court of Missouri. Its mission is to improve the legal profession, the administration of justice and the law on behalf of the public.
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Missouri Bar, Estate Planning Law Committee
Member
- Current
Activities: Provides a forum for education, shared expertise, and professional development for practitioners in estate planning and probate administration law.
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Bar Association of Metropolitan St. Louis - Trusts Committee
Member
- Current
Activities: Provides a forum for lawyers who practice in the area to share knowledge, experience and ideas. Sponsors regular continuing education opportunities for members and non-members.
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Jurisdictions Admitted to Practice
Missouri
The Missouri Bar
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Fees
  • Credit Cards Accepted
    All major credit cards.
Practice Area
Estate Planning
Health Care Directives, Trusts, Wills
Languages
  • English: Spoken, Written
Legal Answers
Q. Do beneficiary designations take priority over a Will?
A: Yes--a beneficiary designation takes priority over a Will. A beneficiary designation is a form of "non-probative transfer," which takes place separately from any testamentary documents.
Q. My grandfather recently passed away in Missouri, my mom is still apart of his will even though she died 7 years ago.
A: This depends entirely on the language of the Will.

Frequently, the children would be next in line (each receiving an equal share), but without reading the Will there is no way for me to know.
Q. I have financial POA over my grandfather, can I add myself as a beneficiary on his deed?
A: Typically, if a POA grants a power then it is legal to exercise that power, assuming doing so doe not conflict with any limitations or restrictions given in the document. Another important caveat is that said power is being exercised in good faith and in keeping with the principal's interests. Further, the POA would need to be "durable" (still effective despite the principal's incapacity) to be effective at this point.

Ultimately, it is impossible to give a hard answer without reviewing the POA and knowing all of the surrounding facts.

It would be in your best interest to consult personally with an estate planning attorney before acting.

*This statement is the opinion of its author and is intended for educational purposes only. It is not legal advice, nor does it constitute an attorney-client relationship. ... Read More
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Websites & Blogs
Website
The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC
Blog
LawOfficeDSS Blog
Videos
Meet St. Louis estate planning attorney David Schleiffarth. Introduction

Meet St. Louis estate planning attorney David Schleiffarth.

An Attorney-in-Fact is the individual you appoint as your agent in a Power of Attorney document. You give this individual a great deal of responsibility and authority. Accordingly, you should... Who should I choose as my Attorney-in-Fact?

An Attorney-in-Fact is the individual you appoint as your agent in a Power of Attorney document. You give this individual a great deal of responsibility and authority. Accordingly, you should...

An Attorney-in-Fact is the individual appointed as one's agent in a Power of Attorney document (either general/financial or for health care decisions). The powers given to one's Attorney-in-Fact can be... What does an Attorney-in-Fact do?

An Attorney-in-Fact is the individual appointed as one's agent in a Power of Attorney document (either general/financial or for health care decisions). The powers given to one's Attorney-in-Fact can be...

A General Power of Attorney (sometimes referred to as a Financial Power of Attorney) allows you to appoint a proxy to act on your behalf, under specified circumstances. The powers... What is a General Power of Attorney?

A General Power of Attorney (sometimes referred to as a Financial Power of Attorney) allows you to appoint a proxy to act on your behalf, under specified circumstances. The powers...

Both time and life events can necessitate reevaluating your estate plan. This overview provides some general guidance. How often should I update my estate plan?

Both time and life events can necessitate reevaluating your estate plan. This overview provides some general guidance.

Dave Schleiffarth discusses important criteria to consider when selecting your successor trustee for a revocable living trust. Who should I appoint as my Successor Trustee?

Dave Schleiffarth discusses important criteria to consider when selecting your successor trustee for a revocable living trust.

Dave Schleiffarth discusses the details of leaving gifts for beneficiaries in one's Last Will and Testament. Can I leave gifts in my Will?

Dave Schleiffarth discusses the details of leaving gifts for beneficiaries in one's Last Will and Testament.

Attorney Dave Schleiffarth discusses guardianship nomination in estate planning. Do I name a guardian for my children in my Will?

Attorney Dave Schleiffarth discusses guardianship nomination in estate planning.

A key decision in one's Last Will and Testament is the selection of a Personal Representative. Here is some important criteria to consider. Who should I nominate as my Personal Representative?

A key decision in one's Last Will and Testament is the selection of a Personal Representative. Here is some important criteria to consider.

A Personal Representative (called an executor in some states) oversees your estate and carries out the instructions of your Last Will and Testament. What is a Personal Representative?

A Personal Representative (called an executor in some states) oversees your estate and carries out the instructions of your Last Will and Testament.

A Will names your personal representative, nominates guardians for minor children, and determines where or to whom your property & assets are to be distributed. What kind of issues are addressed in a Will?

A Will names your personal representative, nominates guardians for minor children, and determines where or to whom your property & assets are to be distributed.

A Will is still an essential part of an estate plan even if you have a Trust. If you have a Trust, your Will is called a "Pour-over" Will. A Pour-over Will is structured a little differently from a traditional simple Will and works in complementary fashion with your Trust. If I have a Trust do I still need a Will?

A Will is still an essential part of an estate plan even if you have a Trust. If you have a Trust, your Will is called a "Pour-over" Will. A Pour-over Will is structured a little differently from a traditional simple Will and works in complementary fashion with your Trust.

Flexibility and control are part of what makes a Revocable Living Trust such an effective estate planning tool. This video provides an overview of the wide ranging options available when having a Trust prepared. What do Trust instructions look like?

Flexibility and control are part of what makes a Revocable Living Trust such an effective estate planning tool. This video provides an overview of the wide ranging options available when having a Trust prepared.

One of the most common misconceptions about Trusts is that they primarily benefit the wealthy. This could not be further from the truth. Trusts have substantial benefits for individuals and families at most all income levels. Are Trusts only for the wealthy?

One of the most common misconceptions about Trusts is that they primarily benefit the wealthy. This could not be further from the truth. Trusts have substantial benefits for individuals and families at most all income levels.

Compared to other planning instruments, such as a simple will, a Revocable Living Trust frequently offers many unique advantages. What are the benefits of a Revocable Living Trust?

Compared to other planning instruments, such as a simple will, a Revocable Living Trust frequently offers many unique advantages.

Dave Schleiffarth provides a brief summary of Trusts and how they function in estate planning. What is a Trust?

Dave Schleiffarth provides a brief summary of Trusts and how they function in estate planning.

Dave Schleiffarth outlines estate planning methods for avoiding Probate. How do I avoid Probate?

Dave Schleiffarth outlines estate planning methods for avoiding Probate.

Does a Will protect my property from Probate? Dave Schleiffarth addresses the common misconception that a Will can protect your property and assets from the Probate process. Does a Will protect my property from Probate?

Does a Will protect my property from Probate? Dave Schleiffarth addresses the common misconception that a Will can protect your property and assets from the Probate process.

Dave Schleiffarth discusses the negative consequences of probate and the importance of building an estate plan to avoid it. Why do I want to avoid Probate?

Dave Schleiffarth discusses the negative consequences of probate and the importance of building an estate plan to avoid it.

An explanation of Missouri intestate succession laws. What happens if I die without a Will?

An explanation of Missouri intestate succession laws.

Estate Planning Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses the probate process in Missouri. What is Probate?

Estate Planning Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses the probate process in Missouri.

A brief, visualized overview of a Last Will and Testament (under Missouri law). Wills

A brief, visualized overview of a Last Will and Testament (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Estate Planning and the benefits it offers. What is Estate Planning?

A brief, visualized overview of Estate Planning and the benefits it offers.

A brief, visualized overview of Revocable Living Trusts (under Missouri law). Trusts Pt. 2

A brief, visualized overview of Revocable Living Trusts (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Trusts (under Missouri law). Trusts Pt. 1

A brief, visualized overview of Trusts (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Special Needs Trusts (under Missouri law). Special Needs Trusts

A brief, visualized overview of Special Needs Trusts (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Health Care Power of Attorney (under Missouri law). Health Care Power of Attorney

A brief, visualized overview of Health Care Power of Attorney (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Financial Power of Attorney (under Missouri law). Financial Power of Attorney

A brief, visualized overview of Financial Power of Attorney (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Beneficiary Deeds (under Missouri law). Beneficiary Deeds

A brief, visualized overview of Beneficiary Deeds (under Missouri law).

A brief, visualized overview of Advance Health Care Directives (under Missouri law). Advance Health Care Directive

A brief, visualized overview of Advance Health Care Directives (under Missouri law).

What is a Health Care Power of Attorney? What is an Advance Health Care Directive? Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses these important health care documents and how they work together as part of an effective estate plan. Health Care POA & Advance Health Care Directive

What is a Health Care Power of Attorney? What is an Advance Health Care Directive? Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses these important health care documents and how they work together as part of an effective estate plan.

Attorney David Schleiffarth explains the purpose and importance of having a General Power of Attorney as part of an estate plan. General Power of Attorney

Attorney David Schleiffarth explains the purpose and importance of having a General Power of Attorney as part of an estate plan.

Do I need a Will or a Trust? Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses the features of these powerful estate planning instruments. Wills vs Trusts

Do I need a Will or a Trust? Attorney David Schleiffarth discusses the features of these powerful estate planning instruments.

Power of Attorney documents allow for a great deal of personal preference and customization. Clients may be comfortable giving their spouse (or other primary Attorney-in-Fact) a certain level of power... Can I give my back up Attorney-in-Fact different power than my primary?

Power of Attorney documents allow for a great deal of personal preference and customization. Clients may be comfortable giving their spouse (or other primary Attorney-in-Fact) a certain level of power...

A health care attorney-in-fact, is the person you appoint to make health care decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated. Furthermore, if you are incapacitated and your Advance Health... What does a "Health Care Attorney-in-Fact" do?

A health care attorney-in-fact, is the person you appoint to make health care decisions on your behalf, should you become incapacitated. Furthermore, if you are incapacitated and your Advance Health...

A "durable" power of attorney remains effective regardless of the principal's mental capacity. By contrast, if a power of attorney did not contain a provision making it "durable"--any legal authority... What is a Durable Power of Attorney?

A "durable" power of attorney remains effective regardless of the principal's mental capacity. By contrast, if a power of attorney did not contain a provision making it "durable"--any legal authority...

A Health Care Power of Attorney is a legal document which assigns an individual to act as your proxy, should you be unable to make your own medical decisions. Additionally,... What is a Health Care Power of Attorney?

A Health Care Power of Attorney is a legal document which assigns an individual to act as your proxy, should you be unable to make your own medical decisions. Additionally,...

A "springing" power of attorney grants your appointed agent the authority to act on your behalf--ONLY if/when you are deemed mentally incapacitated. So to speak, the power "springs" into effect... What is a Springing Power of Attorney?

A "springing" power of attorney grants your appointed agent the authority to act on your behalf--ONLY if/when you are deemed mentally incapacitated. So to speak, the power "springs" into effect...

An Advance Health Care Directive informs your family and health care providers, the circumstances under which you would like to cease artificial life support. This document often works together with... What is an Advance Health Care Directive?

An Advance Health Care Directive informs your family and health care providers, the circumstances under which you would like to cease artificial life support. This document often works together with...

Your Health Care Attorney-in-Fact has great responsibility, as the individual responsible for your medical decisions (if you are incapacitated). It is important to choose someone who understands your health care... Who should I choose as my Health Care Attorney in Fact?

Your Health Care Attorney-in-Fact has great responsibility, as the individual responsible for your medical decisions (if you are incapacitated). It is important to choose someone who understands your health care...

Contact & Map
The Law Office of David S. Schleiffarth, LLC
Clayton
225 S Meramec Ave, Suite #325
Clayton, MO 63105
Telephone: (314) 448-0527
Monday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Tuesday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Wednesday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Thursday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Friday: 9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday: Closed (Today)
Sunday: Closed