Estate Tax Planning

Safeguard Your Legacy

Our team works with you to safeguard your legacy.

Our seasoned estate planning attorneys serve the thriving communities of Kansas and Missouri, especially the unique challenges that come with estate tax planning for individuals in safeguarding their legacy. At Paths Law Firm, we provide tailored solutions to preserve and protect your wealth for tax minimization and future generations.

man signing a legal document

Why Choose Paths Law Firm?

Navigating the intricacies of estate planning requires more than legal knowledge—it demands a deep understanding of the nuances specific to the Kansas City Metro area. As your experienced elder law attorney, Paths Law Firm brings a wealth of expertise to ensure your assets are strategically preserved.

For high-net-worth individuals, the stakes are higher, and the need for precision in estate planning is paramount. Paths specializes in crafting comprehensive strategies that address the complexities of substantial estates, offering you peace of mind knowing your legacy is in capable hands.

Situated in the heart of the Kansas City Metro area, Paths Law Firm combines local insight with a global perspective on estate planning. Whether your assets span across state lines or international borders, our tailored solutions are designed to meet the unique challenges of your high-net-worth situation.

Our Commitment To You:

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your estate plan is meticulously crafted to reflect your values, protect your assets, and ensure a seamless transition for your heirs.

As your trusted elder law partner, we employ proven strategies to safeguard your wealth, minimize tax implications, and maximize the impact of your legacy.

Your financial matters are personal. Our confidential consultations provide you with the opportunity to discuss your unique situation, goals, and concerns openly.

Estate planning for high-net-worth individuals demands a level of expertise that goes beyond traditional legal services. At Paths Law Firm, we are committed to delivering unparalleled guidance and results. Let us be your trusted partner in securing a legacy for you and your loved ones.

Preserve Your Legacy With Expert Guidance

Navigating the complexities of estate planning for high-net-worth individuals demands a nuanced approach. Our attorneys include well-experienced elder law attorneys who have seen and walked through the entire process, from beginning to the end.  The attorneys are dedicated to crafting customized solutions tailored to your unique circumstances. We concentrate on creating comprehensive estate plans that not only protect your wealth but also ensure a seamless transfer to the next generation.

Client Background:

The Bowen family, a high-net-worth couple, approached Paths Law Firm seeking comprehensive elder law and estate planning services. With a vast estate and complex financial portfolio, the Bowens recognized the critical need for meticulous planning to safeguard their assets and ensure a seamless transfer of wealth to future generations.The Bowen family, a high-net-worth couple, approached Paths Law Firm seeking comprehensive elder law and estate planning services. With a vast estate and complex financial portfolio, the Bowens recognized the critical need for meticulous planning to safeguard their assets and ensure a seamless transfer of wealth to future generations.

 

The Challenge:
  1. Asset Complexity: The Bowens had diverse investments, real estate holdings, and business interests, requiring a multi-faceted approach to asset protection.

  2. Multigenerational Wealth Transfer: The clients desired a tailored strategy that would facilitate the smooth transition of wealth to their heirs while minimizing tax implications.

  3. Healthcare Decision Planning: Considering the unpredictability of health-related challenges, the Bowens sought a robust plan to address potential incapacity, ensuring their medical and financial wishes were upheld.

 

Key steps taken to help the Bowens make sense of the situation, find clarity about their options, make an educated, informed decision regarding their next step. Paths Law Firm, a leader in elder law and estate planning, undertook a comprehensive analysis of the Bowen family’s financial landscape. Our seasoned team customized a plan that incorporated the following elements:

 

  1. Revocable Living Trust: Developed a meticulously drafted revocable living trust to manage and protect the Bowens’ assets during their lifetime and seamlessly transfer them upon incapacity or death.

  2. Advanced Healthcare Directives: Implemented advanced healthcare directives, outlining the Bowens’ medical preferences and appointing trusted individuals to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if necessary.

  3. Tax Mitigation Strategies: Employed strategic tax planning, such as a QTIP trust to minimize estate taxes and maximize the wealth available for the Bowens’ beneficiaries.

  4. Succession Planning: Devised a comprehensive succession plan for the family business, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership and preserving its legacy for future generations.

 

Results:
  1. Protected Assets: The Bowens now have a fortified wall of legal protection around their assets, shielding them from potential creditors and legal disputes.

  2. Tax Savings: Through proactive tax planning, the Bowens have significantly reduced their estate tax liability, allowing for more substantial wealth transfer.

  3. Peace of Mind: With advanced healthcare directives in place, the Bowens can rest assured that their medical and financial decisions align with their wishes, even in unforeseen circumstances.

  4. Legacy Preservation: The succession plan for the family business ensures a seamless transition, preserving the Bowens’ legacy for generations to come.

 

Paths Law Firm’s dedication to The Browns’ case culminated in a comprehensive and tailored solution that surpassed all expectations. The Browns now have peace of mind, knowing that their personal assets, family’s future, and their new business venture are all protected. Their estate planning and business planning seamlessly complement each other, making their transition into the business world worry-free.

 

Conclusion:

Paths Law Firm takes pride in delivering tailored solutions that address the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals. The Bowen case exemplifies our commitment to excellence in elder law and estate planning, showcasing the peace of mind that comes with proactive and comprehensive legal strategies. When it comes to securing your legacy, trust Paths Law Firm to guide you through the complexities of elder law and estate planning. Contact us today for a consultation tailored to your unique circumstances. Your legacy deserves the expertise of Paths Law Firm.

Our Commitment To You:

Seamless Transitions, Lasting Legacies

At Paths Law Firm, we believe that safeguarding your legacy involves more than just wealth preservation. It’s about creating a lasting impact for generations to come. Our commitment to excellence ensures that your estate plan aligns with your values, aspirations, and the well-being of your heirs.

We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Your estate plan is meticulously crafted to reflect your values, protect your assets, and ensure a seamless transition for your heirs.

As your trusted elder law partner, we employ proven strategies to safeguard your wealth, minimize tax implications, and maximize the impact of your legacy.

Your financial matters are personal. Our confidential consultations provide you with the opportunity to discuss your unique situation, goals, and concerns openly.

Estate planning for high-net-worth individuals demands a level of expertise that goes beyond traditional legal services. At Paths Law Firm, we are committed to delivering unparalleled guidance and results. Let us be your trusted partner in securing a legacy for you and your loved ones.

Common Case Studies

Client Background:

The Bowen family, a high-net-worth couple, approached Paths Law Firm seeking comprehensive elder law and estate planning services. With a vast estate and complex financial portfolio, the Bowens recognized the critical need for meticulous planning to safeguard their assets and ensure a seamless transfer of wealth to future generations.The Bowen family, a high-net-worth couple, approached Paths Law Firm seeking comprehensive elder law and estate planning services. With a vast estate and complex financial portfolio, the Bowens recognized the critical need for meticulous planning to safeguard their assets and ensure a seamless transfer of wealth to future generations.

 

The Challenge:
  1. Asset Complexity: The Bowens had diverse investments, real estate holdings, and business interests, requiring a multi-faceted approach to asset protection.

  2. Multigenerational Wealth Transfer: The clients desired a tailored strategy that would facilitate the smooth transition of wealth to their heirs while minimizing tax implications.

  3. Healthcare Decision Planning: Considering the unpredictability of health-related challenges, the Bowens sought a robust plan to address potential incapacity, ensuring their medical and financial wishes were upheld.

 

Key steps taken to help the Bowens make sense of the situation, find clarity about their options, make an educated, informed decision regarding their next step. Paths Law Firm, a leader in elder law and estate planning, undertook a comprehensive analysis of the Bowen family’s financial landscape. Our seasoned team customized a plan that incorporated the following elements:

 

  1. Revocable Living Trust: Developed a meticulously drafted revocable living trust to manage and protect the Bowens’ assets during their lifetime and seamlessly transfer them upon incapacity or death.

  2. Advanced Healthcare Directives: Implemented advanced healthcare directives, outlining the Bowens’ medical preferences and appointing trusted individuals to make healthcare decisions on their behalf if necessary.

  3. Tax Mitigation Strategies: Employed strategic tax planning, such as a QTIP trust to minimize estate taxes and maximize the wealth available for the Bowens’ beneficiaries.

  4. Succession Planning: Devised a comprehensive succession plan for the family business, ensuring a smooth transition of leadership and preserving its legacy for future generations.

 

Results:
  1. Protected Assets: The Bowens now have a fortified wall of legal protection around their assets, shielding them from potential creditors and legal disputes.

  2. Tax Savings: Through proactive tax planning, the Bowens have significantly reduced their estate tax liability, allowing for more substantial wealth transfer.

  3. Peace of Mind: With advanced healthcare directives in place, the Bowens can rest assured that their medical and financial decisions align with their wishes, even in unforeseen circumstances.

  4. Legacy Preservation: The succession plan for the family business ensures a seamless transition, preserving the Bowens’ legacy for generations to come.

 

Paths Law Firm’s dedication to The Browns’ case culminated in a comprehensive and tailored solution that surpassed all expectations. The Browns now have peace of mind, knowing that their personal assets, family’s future, and their new business venture are all protected. Their estate planning and business planning seamlessly complement each other, making their transition into the business world worry-free.

 

Conclusion:

Paths Law Firm takes pride in delivering tailored solutions that address the unique needs of high-net-worth individuals. The Bowen case exemplifies our commitment to excellence in elder law and estate planning, showcasing the peace of mind that comes with proactive and comprehensive legal strategies. When it comes to securing your legacy, trust Paths Law Firm to guide you through the complexities of elder law and estate planning. Contact us today for a consultation tailored to your unique circumstances. Your legacy deserves the expertise of Paths Law Firm.

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Educational Seminar at Paths Law Firm

Paths Law Firm provides a Free Educational Elder Law Seminar every month to help you plan for your future.

Client Care Advisor

Amy L. Gonzales

Amy L. Gonzales

Client Care Advisor

Amy L. Gonzales

Amy is our Client Care Advisor and brings over 20 years of combined experience in healthcare and senior living. She has a passion for helping seniors and their families navigate the often-difficult next steps. Her role at Paths Law Firm includes assistance with placement services, for those needing senior living options, as well as client satisfaction and supporting the marketing efforts. She never tires of hearing the life stories of our clients and brings experience and compassion to wherever they are in their journey.
 
Amy attended the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri. She was the Director of Sales for a home IV therapy and home care company, an Executive Director for an independent living community, and spent a season as a licensed realtor for both Missouri and Kansas. She has also worked for several years in assisted living and memory care. She co-authored a book called The MyDucks Personal Organizer, which is a tool to help individuals manage their medical, legal, personal, and legacy information. She spent several years as a speaker throughout Kansas City helping to educate and motivate people to get their “ducks in a row”!
 
She is blessed to be married to her husband, Ed, and they have a blended family with 5 grown children. Much of their time is now spent caring for their golden retrievers, enjoying time with family, and traveling whenever possible.

Legal Assistant

Mia G. Santora

Mia G. Santora

Legal Assistant

Mia G. Santora

Mia plays a key role as our dedicated Legal Assistant, collaborating closely with our paralegals on estate planning document preparation. She also supports our attorneys to ensure top-notch service for all our clients. In addition to her legal responsibilities, Mia supports our marketing team with client relations and is the Paths Membership Program coordinator. With a strong background in Project Management, Mia has gained valuable experience from diverse professionals across the country, having lived in Florida and California before joining our team. She graduated with honors from the University of Missouri-Kansas City, earning a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in communications.
 
Mia is always eager to learn the intricacies of elder law and brings a positive attitude to her work. Outside of the office, she enjoys enriching her mind through reading and spending quality time with her two dogs.
 

Community Relations

Jeane M. Fracassa

Jeane M. Fracassa

Community Relations

Jeane M. Fracassa

Jeane Fracassa – a dedicated and accomplished professional who retired with an impressive 38-year service record from the Kansas City Missouri Police Department. Throughout her illustrious career, Jeane served as a Civian Supervisor in the Communications Unit, where she played a pivotal role in ensuring efficient and effective communication within the department.

Even in retirement, Jeane’s commitment to community service remains unwavering. Currently, she serves in various capacities within Community Relations at Paths Law Firm. Actively engaged in the Lee’s Summit and Overland Park communities, she proudly represents the law firm.

In all aspects of her life, Jeane Fracassa exemplifies the values of community, compassion, and family. Her commitment to making a difference and her love for exploration make her a remarkable individual, whose presence brightens the lives of those she encounters. Whether at work, with family, or during her travels, Jeane’s genuine care for others and her zest for life make her a truly remarkable and inspiring person.

Administrative Assistant

Laura E. Messer

Laura E. Messer

Administrative Assistant

Laura E. Messer

Laura is the Law Firm’s marketing assistant, supporting all marketing tasks, including managing calendars, researching upcoming events, updating marketing software and spreadsheets, and partnering with organizations to maintain relationships that benefit Paths Law Firm’s clients.  Laura is also the law firm’s professional photographer as she provides the professional photographs for the headshots, organizations, events, and networking.

Laura has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer.  She is also Adobe and Microsoft Certified.  She graduated from Columbia College, Columbia, Missouri with her Bachelor of Arts degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Behavioral Psychology (minors in Social Work and Criminal Justice), and her Photographic Craftsman degree from Professional Photographers of America. She is certified as a Qualified Mental Health Professional, Certified Gentle Teacher, Medicaid Billing Certified, Crisis Intervention Counselor, and a Missouri Notary.

Laura has been married more than 26 years and has a daughter and a son. She has four brothers, a niece, and a nephew. Her four spoiled pets that love her attention. A lot of Laura’s off time is spent taking photos and she is an internationally published photographer. Laura owns a studio on the historic Independence Square. 

Administrative Assistant

Holly D. Bramble

Holly D. Bramble

Administrative Assistant

Holly D. Bramble

Holly is our newest member of the administrative team. She is hardworking, has proven organizational skills and excellent communication skills. Holly has transitioned to the Estate Planning field from healthcare administration where she gained valuable knowledge that has contributed to her success here at Paths.

Holly enjoys spending time with loved ones, cheering for the Chiefs, and relaxing on the beach.

Administrative Assistant

Tressa L. Purdy

Tressa L. Purdy

Administrative Assistant

Tressa L. Purdy

Tressa has the important role of being a client’s initial point of contact as the law firm’s receptionist for all locations.  She also welcomes, assists, and cares for clients at the Lee’s Summit office. Additionally, she provides support in an administrative capacity for the attorneys, staff, and clients.  When you meet Tressa, the first quality many note is her readiness to be of assistance.

 

Tressa is a graduate of Park Hill High School with extensive administrative experience and executive level management. Tressa brings a stability and comfort to the law firm experience having worked in a variety of industries and having lived in six different major metropolitan cities.

 

Tressa has a daughter, two sons, and one grandchild.  In her free time, she enjoys her family and friends, loves being outdoors, gardening, bike riding and bird watching. Indoor hobbies include scrapbooking, painting cookies, and cheering on Chiefs football. She is a Kansas City native but enjoys traveling but is always happy to be back in her hometown.  

Attorney

Kathleen E. Overton

Kathleen E. Overton, Attorney

Attorney

Kathleen E. Overton

Kathleen Overton is an attorney and owner at Paths Law Firm. She has more than 17 years of experience advocating for those with special needs and navigating the state and federal agencies formed to help the disabled and elderly. At Paths Law Firm, Kathleen’s practice focuses on helping the elderly qualify for nursing home Medicaid, creating estate plans to protect beneficiaries, as well as a lot of time planning and forming businesses. Kathleen also enjoys helping clients form non-profit organizations and obtain 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.

 

After attending law school at the University of Oklahoma, Kathleen began representing clients before the Social Security Administration. Eventually her practice switched to federal court appeals and Kathleen spent years representing clients before the Eastern and Western District of Missouri, the District of Kansas, and the Eighth Circuit Court of Appeals. Kathleen has since focused her practice on estate planning and elder law after watching clients struggle to find ways to financially care for loved ones with special needs or aging parents.

 

Kathleen lives in the Northland with her husband and four children. She spends her free time attending soccer matches and ballet performances with her children and starting endless home improvement projects with her husband. 

Senior Paralegal

Terry L. Whitmash

Medicaid Paralegal

Tena K. Dooley

Terry brings a wealth of knowledge and versatility to her work having more than 35 years of experience as a paralegal, primarily in family law. She holds an Associate’s Degree and a Paralegal Certificate from Johnson County Community College. Her experience and education makes her an invaluable asset to our team.
 
Beyond her professional achievements, Terry is happily married and the proud parent of six children, as well as a devoted grandmother to nine wonderful grandchildren. In her personal time, she’s passionate about fitness, enjoying the challenges of boot camp workouts and the tranquility of hiking in the great outdoors. At home, she’s kept company by her husband and her lovable Boston Terrier, Jersey, who brings endless fun and energy to her life.

PARALEGAL & ACCOUNTANT

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney R. Morris

PARALEGAL & ACCOUNTANT

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney is the law firm’s internal accountant and one of their experienced paralegals having been with Paths Law Firm since 2017. She is a primary point of contact for estate planning and business planning.

Sydney graduated with honors from the University of Missouri Kansas City in 2022 with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Accounting. She is a Bloch Launchpad, Phi Theta Kappa, and National Honor Society alumni.

In her free time, Sydney enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, baking and going on long walks. 

SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Christy L. Phillips

Christy L. Phillips

SENIOR ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT

Christy L. Phillips

Christy has three years of experience in elder law working for seniors and their families. She is currently the Senior Administrative Assistant and organizes the day to day functions of the office and makes sure everything runs smoothly. When asked why she loved what she does, Christy said at Paths Law Firm, she gets the opportunity to help clients in more ways than one. Her favorite parts of the job are getting to know the clients and helping them get their questions answered. 

Christy’s experience in the finance industry has been extremely beneficial to her role as the Senior Administrative Assistant. Christy has a special place in her heart for the elderly and attributes this to the relationship she had with her grandparents. 

Christy was raised in Ogden, Utah and moved to Independence, MO, when she was ten years old. She has been with her high school sweetheart for 25 years and they have two beautiful children together. Her daughter works in the medical industry, and her son currently attends High School and plays Baseball. When Christy is not working, she enjoys crafting and spending time with her family and friends.

Christy’s experience in the finance industry has been extremely beneficial to her role as Benefits Coordinator. There have been many influences that went into her decision to select the field of Elder Law. Christy has a special place in her heart for the elderly and attributes this to her relationship with her grandparents.

When asked why she loves what she does, Christy said that at Paths Elder law, she gets the opportunity to help clients in more ways than one. Her favorite part of her job is getting clients approved for Medicaid or VA benefits as it is a huge relief for them and their loved ones.

Christy was raised in Ogden, Utah, and moved to Independence, MO, when she was ten years old. She has two children that keep her busy and fill her life with joy! Christy’s daughter cheers for Avila University, and her son plays competitive baseball for the Bucks and races BMX locally for the Motorcycle Closeout Team.

When Christy is not working, she enjoys crafting and making homemade gifts for her loved ones and raising her kids to be healthy, happy, and positive humans.

 

Practice Areas

  • Medicaid Benefits
  • VA Benefits

 

Professionalc Memberships and Affiliations

  • Missouri Notary

FINANCIAL MANAGER

René A. Fracassa

René A. Fracassa

FINANCIAL MANAGER

René A. Fracassa

René is the Financial Manager at Paths Law Firm overseeing all aspects of revenue, expenses, and financial planning. She is also responsible for general office management, including assisting in many of the administrative matters that periodically arise. 

René earned her Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri and soon thereafter worked her way through management at The American Restaurant where she worked almost 17 years before relocating to the country of China.

In her spare time, René is currently quite active managing multiple generations of her family, including parents and grandkids.  René has had great impact on the lives of many women teaching discipling and teaching and abundance of Bible Studies. Her former career in management and event planning trained her well to juggle all the activity.

MARKETING MANAGER

Hilary R. Tichota

Hilary Tichota

MARKETING MANAGER

Hilary R. Tichota

Hilary plays a vital role in managing the Marketing Department at Paths Law Firm.  She is excellent at bringing new ideas and sharing valuable resources with the law firm and our community. Hilary has been with the law firm since the beginning, working in nearly every role which is invaluable in her marketing endeavors as she brings a unique set of skills into the Marketing Department.

Hilary is nearly complete in her Bachelor’s of Arts Degree in Marketing at Park University.  She has earned the honor of being listed in National Honors Society, Phi Theta Kappa, and the Dean’s List. Hilary is always looking for new and innovative ways to share the law firm’s message.

SR. PARALEGAL & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Jennifer A. Bronson

Jennifer Bronson

SR. PARALEGAL & OPERATIONS MANAGER

Jennifer A. Bronson

Jennifer is the Sr. Paralegal and Operations Manager at Paths Law Firm.  She oversees the firm’s probate department as well developing, implementing, and managing all the firm’s administrative processes having been with the law firm almost from the beginning.  She enjoys client contact as well as behind-the-scenes operations.

 

Jennifer began her legal career in 1990 as a legal secretary.  She has worked in small and medium sized firms, as well as court operations.  She has her Paralegal Certificate from Boston University, Law Office Management Certificate from University of Central Missouri, and she is a Master Financial Coach. 

 

Jennifer has two daughters, twin sons, and twin grandsons.  She spends as much time as she can with them.  She enjoys reading, listening to podcasts, and tending her yard. 

ATTORNEY

Russell A. Fracassa (Rusty)

Attorney Russell A. Fracassa

ATTORNEY

Russell A. Fracassa (Rusty)

When asked what he wants to do, his reply was “I just want to sit at the kitchen table and work directly with people.” Rusty enjoys working with clients providing experienced advocacy and supporting them through their unfamiliar and overwhelming situations. Due to all the challenges faced by seniors, it is essential to work with an experienced elder law attorney who has expertise in the law, issues, and concerns affecting seniors and their families.

Rusty brings more than 30 years legal experience and expertise working for seniors and their families as an elder law attorney in Kansas City and surrounding. Prior to law school, Rusty was an accountant and his first couple years practicing law was as a tax attorney. This provides invaluable experience in his current practice of law. Rusty’s focus is helping protect seniors’ assets from taxes and long-term care costs, benefit qualification, and navigating more complex family scenarios in their estate planning.

Rusty has personally experienced the loss every parent fears, caring for a spouse suffering with cancer and the treatment, and working with aging parents through all stages of their lives.  He intimately understands the challenges faced by individuals and their caretakers when capacity or health declines, how to prepare for it, and the legal matters while in the midst of it.  He may not be able to eliminate his client’s grief, but he strives to provide clients with peace of mind.

In 2010, Rusty’s faith and love led him and part of his family to China as Christian missionaries. He and his wife, went permanently, but ended up dedicating 3 years to that ministry. They returned to Missouri to help with grandchildren after a family tragedy and later began anew with Paths Elder Law. The goal is providing compassionate care through legal advocacy.

Rusty has multiple degrees and advanced study spanning his Bachelor’s of Arts in Business Administration – Accounting at Rockhurst College (now Rockhurst University), Masters of Arts in Accounting and in Intercultural Studies, as well as his Juris Doctorate from the University of Missouri at Kansas City School of Law.

When Rusty is not practicing law, he enjoys spending time with his family, grandchildren, and excessive eating at local restaurants.

Practice Areas

  • Wills and Trusts
  • Estate Planning
  • Asset Protection
  • Medicaid Benefits
  • VA Benefits
  • Probate
  • Guardianship and Conservatorships
  • Education

 

BSBA and Master’s in Accounting, Master’s in Inter-Cultural Studies, and Doctorate in Juris Prudence

  • Rockhurst University
  • Liberty University
  • University of Missouri – Kansas City


Admissions to Practice

  • Missouri


Professional Memberships and Affiliations

  • State Bar of Missouri
  • National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (long-time Member)
  • Elder Counsel (Charter and Ongoing Member)
  • Missouri Association of Trial Attorneys (Past Member)
  • Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association
  • Missouri State Bar Committees – Elder Law, Estate Planning, Probate