Estate Planning
and Elder Law Membership Program

Welcome to our Membership Program, where your peace of mind and legal needs are our top priority. At Paths Law Firm, we understand the importance of proactive legal planning and the significance it holds in safeguarding your future and that of your loved ones.

Our Membership Program offers a comprehensive suite of benefits designed to provide you with support and guidance in navigating the complexities of estate planning and elder law.

  • Priority Access for Phone Calls and Email Support

    Our Priority Access ensures that as a valued member of our program, your phone calls and emails are placed at the forefront of our support queue. Here are the benefits you can expect:

    • Immediate Response:Your inquiries via phone or email will be addressed with the utmost urgency. We aim to respond to our priority members within 2 hours during business hours.
    • Dedicated Support Line:Access to a dedicated phone line that reduces wait times and connects you directly to our specialized support team.
    • Enhanced Email Support:Your emails will be flagged for immediate attention by our customer support team, ensuring timely and detailed responses.

  • Unlimited Staff Time

    We recognize that some cases require extensive support. Our membership offers:

    • No Hourly Caps:You can utilize our staff’s expertise without worrying about hourly limitations or additional costs.
    • Diverse Expertise:Access to a team with a wide range of skills to support you in various aspects of your needs.
    • Continuous Support:Staff will be available to assist with ongoing matters, providing consistent and reliable service.

  • 4 Hours of Attorney Time Per Year

    Legal support is crucial, and with our program, you’re entitled to:

    • Expert Legal Consultation:Up to 4 hours of time with our experienced attorneys over the year, which can be used for advice, document review, or representation discussions.
    • Versatility:The time can be used in one sitting or spread out over multiple sessions,
      depending on your needs.
    • Carry-over Option:Unused hours may be eligible for carry-over to the following year, ensuring you get the full value of your membership.

  • Priority Scheduling for New Matters

    When new issues arise, immediate attention can be critical:

    • Expedited Appointments:As a member, your new matters are given priority in scheduling, significantly reducing the wait time for consultations and meetings.
    • Flexibility:We offer flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy schedule, including early morning, and weekend appointments.
    • Proactive Planning:Our staff will work proactively with you to anticipate future needs and schedule accordingly, ensuring you have timely access to the services you require.

This membership program is designed to provide you with a superior level of service and
support, ensuring that your needs are met promptly and effectively. We are committed to
offering you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have priority access and support when you need it most.

  • Unlimited Changes to Named Fiduciaries

    You will have the flexibility to make unlimited changes to the named fiduciaries in your estate plan. Whether you need to update your executor, trustee, or guardian, our program allows you to make these changes without incurring additional fees. This feature ensures that your estate plan remains aligned with your current wishes and circumstances.

  • Digital Copies of Documents via DocuBank

    Gain access to the convenience of digital copies of your important estate planning documents through DocuBank. As a member, you can securely store and access your will, power of attorney, healthcare directives, and other essential documents online. This ensures that your documents are readily available when needed, offering peace of mind and accessibility during critical moments.

  • Unlimited Asset Transfer Assistance

    Our membership program provides you with unlimited assistance for transferring your assets into your trust or other estate planning entities. Whether you’re acquiring new assets, restructuring your holdings, or simply need guidance on the transfer process, our team is here to support you every step of the way. This feature helps streamline the management and protection of your assets according to your estate plan.

  • Home Refinance Deed Transfers

    We provide a seamless process for removing your residence or other real property from your trust for refinance purposes and subsequently deeding the property back into your trust once the refinance is complete.

  • Selling or buying a home

    As a member, when you decide to sell property owned by your trust or buy real property, we streamline the entire process. Our team coordinates with the title company, ensuring the title company has the documents required for a smooth sale of trust property and the titling of your new property into your Trust.

  • Annual Review of Your Estate Plan

    Enjoy the peace of mind that comes with an annual review of your estate plan as part of our membership program. One of our attorneys will assess your plan, discuss any life changes or legal updates that may impact it, and make recommendations for adjustments as needed. This annual review helps ensure that your estate plan remains current and aligned with your wishes over time.

In our membership program, we offer comprehensive support for individuals and families navigating nursing home placement and Medicaid assistance, ensuring peace of mind and financial relief.

  • Annual Medicaid Renewals at No Charge

    • Our membership program includes the facilitation of annual Medicaid renewals at no additional cost to our members.
    • We streamline the renewal process, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is completed accurately and submitted on time.
    • By handling the Medicaid renewals, we alleviate the administrative burden and stress associated with this vital process, allowing our members to focus on their loved ones’ care.
    •  
  • Nursing Home Liaison After Placement

    • As part of our program, we serve as your dedicated nursing home liaison after placement, offering support with bills, charges, and complaints at no extra cost.
    • Our experienced team acts as a communication bridge between our members and the nursing home, addressing any concerns or issues that may arise
    • By providing this service at no charge, we aim to ensure that our members receive the support they need without the added financial strain.
    •  
  • Nursing Home Move or Placement Assistance at a Discounted Rate

    • Our membership program offers nursing home move or placement assistance at a discounted rate for our members.
    • Whether it’s relocating to a new facility or initially placing a loved one in a nursing home, our team is dedicated to providing guidance and assistance throughout the process.
    • This discounted service aims to minimize the financial impact of such transitions, making quality care and support more accessible to our members.


By offering these comprehensive benefits, our membership program is designed to support individuals and families facing the challenges of nursing home placement and Medicaid assistance, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need without unnecessary financial strain.

  • Quarterly Member Mornings 

    Member mornings will be a time where you can come in and connect with other members, connect with the attorneys, and get updated on important legal news or changes that you may need to be aware of. This is about connection and keeping you in the loop.

  • Discounted Fee for Additional Documents

    As a member, you will benefit from discounted fees for additional documents. Whether you need an Asset Protection Trust, Special or Supplemental Needs Trust or other estate planning documents, our program offers you exclusive cost savings on these additional services. This allows you to efficiently manage your legal documentation needs while staying within your budget.

     

  • Initial Meeting with Successor Trustee

    As a valued member, your successor trustee has access to comprehensive support for crucial transitions in your estate planning process. The initial meeting with the successor trustee marks a pivotal moment in ensuring the seamless continuity and execution of your estate plan. One of our attorneys will guide your designated trustee through the intricacies of trust management, legal responsibilities, and administrative tasks. This personalized session encompasses obtaining a new Employer Identification Number (EIN) and drafting a new Trust Certification

     

  • Free Notary Services

    Enjoy the convenience of free notary services as part of your membership.  Whether you require notarization for legal documents, affidavits, or any other paperwork, our program offers you complimentary access to professional notary services. This benefit adds significant value to your membership, saving you time and money on essential notarization needs.

     

  • Newsletter and email blast

    As a member, you will receive a comprehensive newsletter and email blast to keep you updated on pertinent updates and changes to laws, regulations, and more. Stay informed about the latest developments that could impact you, your business or industry, delivered directly to your inbox.

     

  • Legal matters not handled by Paths Law Firm

    We offer a warm referral hand-off to trusted attorneys or firms for matters beyond our scope. Your needs are always our priority, ensuring you receive expert care and guidance every step of the way.
  • Being a Trustee

    • Understanding the roles, responsibilities, and legal obligations associated with being a trustee.
    • Discussing the management and distribution of trust assets for the benefit of the beneficiaries.

  • Acting as Power of Attorney

    • Exploring the authority and duties of an individual appointed as a power of attorney.
    • Addressing the legal and financial decision-making powers granted to a power of attorney.

  • Healthcare Power of Attorney, Advanced Directive and DNR

    • Examining the significance and implications of healthcare power of attorney, advanced directives, and do-not-resuscitate (DNR) orders.
    • Navigating the complexities of healthcare decision-making and end-of-life care planning.

  • Basics of MO HealthNet Vendor Benefits

    • Providing an overview of the MO HealthNet vendor benefits program.
    • Educating clients on the eligibility criteria, coverage, and application process for accessing vendor benefits.

  • VA Benefits

    • Shedding light on the various benefits available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
    • Assisting clients in understanding and maximizing their entitlements, such as healthcare, disability compensation, and pension benefits.

  • Working with Placement Professionals

    • Exploring the role of placement professionals in assisting with senior living and care options.
    • Discussing best practices for collaborating with placement professionals to ensure suitable arrangements for seniors

  • Keeping Corporate Records, Starting a Non-profit, and Other Topics

    • Delving into the importance of maintaining accurate corporate records for legal and compliance purposes
    • Offering guidance on the process of initiating a non-profit organization, including incorporation and tax-exempt status.
    • Addressing other relevant topics based on client feedback and emerging trends in the field.

As a member, you’ll have access to a range of services, all at a reduced rate or no charge, for an entire year.

Service
Members
None Members
Document Changes (Fiduciary/Trustee)
No charge
$450–$1,875
Additional Estate Planning Documents
Discounted fee
Full price
Initial TTEE Meeting After Death
No charge
$450
Obtain EIN & Trust Certificate After Death
No charge
$450
Deeds for Refinance
No charge
$775-$1,000
Asset Transfer Assistance
No charge
Hourly, $185–$355/hr
Annual Estate Plan Review
No charge
$450
Consultation on New Matter
No charge
$450 per matter
Phone Calls/Emails with Staff
No charge
$90–$185/hr
Phone Calls/Emails/Meetings with Attorneys
No charge*
$325–$355/hr
Nursing Home Placement
Free Consultation
$2,500
Nursing Home Liaison
Discounted rate
$60/Hourly
Annual Medicaid Renewals
No charge
$450

Services

Members
Non-Members
No charge
$450-$1,875
Discounted fee
Full price
No charge
$450
No charge
$450
No charge
$775-$1,000
No charge
Hourly, $185–$355/hr
No charge
$450
No charge
$450 per matter
No charge
$90–$185/hr
No charge*
$325–$355/hr
Free Consultation
$2,500
Discounted rate
$60/Hourly
No charge
$450

* Up to 4 hours of attorney time

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Paralegal

Jennifer Scott

jennifer scott

Jennifer serves as an Estate Planning Paralegal, providing comprehensive support to the firm’s attorneys and clients. She assists in the preparation of wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and other estate planning documents, ensuring accuracy, clarity, and alignment with each client’s objectives.

Before transitioning into estate planning, Jennifer gained extensive experience as a Family Law Paralegal, this background enables her to navigate sensitive client circumstances with professionalism, discretion, and a strong understanding of family dynamics.

Jennifer is recognized for her attention to detail, strong organizational skills, and commitment to delivering a thoughtful and reassuring client experience. She approaches each matter with integrity and a focus on ensuring clients feel informed and supported throughout the process.

Outside of the office, Jennifer enjoys practicing yoga, watching sunsets, and spending time in nature—activities that provide balance and inspiration in her personal life.

Assistant to Russell Fracassa

Peyton Osborne

Peyton Osborne

Peyton serves as the Assistant to Russell Fracassa, bringing dedication, reliability, and compassion to her role at Paths Law Firm.

With prior experience supporting small businesses in administrative and operational capacities, she has developed strong organizational skills and a sharp attention to detail that help ensure both attorneys and clients are well supported.

She is currently studying at the University of Missouri–Kansas City as an Honors Student, demonstrating a strong commitment to excellence in both her academic and professional pursuits. Peyton’s work ethic and drive are reflected in the care she brings to each task and interaction.

Outside of the office, Peyton enjoys spending time with her family, reading, and exploring new places.

Probate Paralegal

Shaye Kotze

Shaye Kotze

Shaye entered the field of civil law in 2022 and has quickly developed a strong foundation in client service and legal support.

Her academic background includes an Associate of Science degree in Healthcare Services and Informatics Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, with an emphasis in Health and Human Services, Social Sciences, and Humanities.

This unique blend of legal experience and healthcare-focused education allows Shaye to approach her work with both analytical precision and genuine empathy — especially when supporting families navigating complex and sensitive situations.

Outside of the office, Shaye enjoys spending time with her husband and their one-year-old daughter. Whether she’s baking sourdough, working on arts and crafts, or enjoying time outdoors, she values creating meaningful moments with her family.

Receptionist

Malia Blosser

Malia Blosser

Malia serves as the first point of contact for many of our clients, helping create a welcoming and supportive experience from the very first phone call. As our receptionist, she assists with scheduling, communication, and ensuring that each interaction reflects the care and professionalism our firm values.

She understands that many families who contact our office may be navigating stressful or uncertain situations, and she strives to make every conversation feel comfortable and reassuring.

Outside of work, Malia enjoys spending time with her husband and their two children. She loves reading, watching movies, and baking with her kids — creating meaningful memories both at home and at work.

Of Counsel

Janeece L. Dent-Bennett

Janeece L. Dent-Bennett

Janeece Dent-Bennett was born in Lexington, Missouri, in 1960 and graduated from Lexington High School in 1979.  She graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a major in Accounting from University of Central Missouri in Warrensburg, MO in 1982. 

In 1985, Janeece graduated with distinction from the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Law.

Upon graduation from law school, Janeece joined the former Shughart Thomson & Kilroy, P.C. law firm (now Polsinelli) in Kansas City, Missouri, with a primary practice in corporate and business law. 

She started her own law practice in 1989 and has since practiced law in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, serving clients throughout the state of Missouri with a primary emphasis in Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning, Probate, and Business Transactions.

Janeece is married and has 3 children.  Jillian Dent is an attorney in Kansas City, Missouri.  Nathan Dent is a Certified Public Accountant in Denver, Colorado.  Andrew Bennett is an Electrical Engineer in North Kansas City, Missouri.  Her husband Mark Bennett is an IT specialist contractor for the USDA.

Recently, Janeece closed her former solo law practice of 36 years and joined Paths Law Firm in Lee’s Summit, MO as Of Counsel.

Legal Assistant

Reese M. Lehr

Reese Lehr

With a strong background in customer service and a passion for helping others, Reese brings dedication and a positive attitude to her role as a Legal Assistant at Paths Law Firm. She supports the team by managing client correspondence, organizing policies, and stepping in wherever needed to ensure clients receive the highest level of care. Known for her strong work ethic and adaptability, Reese is always ready to tackle new challenges and contribute to the firm’s mission.

Reese is currently enrolled in the Honors Program at the University of Missouri–Kansas City, where she continues to pursue academic excellence. Outside of work and school, she enjoys spending time outdoors and cherishing meaningful moments with her family and friends. Her enthusiasm, reliability, and drive make her a valuable part of the Paths Law Firm team.

Office Assistant

Christine G. Yates

Christine G. Yates
Christine serves as the Office Assistant at Paths Law Firm, where she supports day-to-day operations with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude. A student at Faith Christian Academy, Christine is passionate about pursuing a future career in both business and law, with a goal of serving her community and making a meaningful impact.
 
Outside of the office, Christine is a multi-talented individual who enjoys spending time with family and friends, playing musical instruments, practicing martial arts, cooking, exploring the outdoors, and constantly learning new skills. Her energy, curiosity, and dedication make her a valued member of the Paths team.

Legal Assistant

Bailey E. Harrison

Bailey
Bailey is a skilled Legal Assistant with a focus on elder law, providing dedicated support to both clients and attorneys. With a strong background in customer service and a certification from the University of Arkansas’ paralegal program, Bailey brings exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and a client-centered approach to their work.
 
Committed to efficiency and professionalism, Bailey assists in navigating complex legal matters with compassion and precision. Outside of work, Bailey maintains a balanced lifestyle by reading, staying active, and spending quality time with their cats.

Community Relations

Jeane M. Fracassa

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.

Attorney

Kathleen E. Overton

Kathleen E. Overton, Attorney

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. 

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney R. Morris

Sydney serves as the Director of Operations at Paths Law Firm, overseeing the firm’s internal processes, team coordination, and strategic initiatives. Since joining the firm in 2017, she has grown from an experienced paralegal and internal accountant into the central force behind the firm’s operational excellence. 

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

Outside of the office, Sydney enjoys spending time with her husband, reading, baking, and going on long walks.

FINANCIAL MANAGER

René A. Fracassa

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

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.

ATTORNEY

Russell A. Fracassa (Rusty)

Attorney Russell A. Fracassa

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