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.

  • 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/ttee)
No charge
$450-$1,875
Additional EP documents
Discounted fee
Full price
Initial TTEE meeting after death
No charge
$450
Obtain EIN and Trust Cert after death
No charge
$450
Deeds for refinance
No charge
$775-$1,000
Assistance buying/selling RE
No charge
Hourly, $185-$355 per hr
Asset Transfer assistance
No charge
Hourly, $185-$355 per hr
Annual EP review
No charge
$450
Consultation on new matter
No charge
$450 per matter
Phone calls/emails with staff
No charge
$90-$185 per hr
Phone calls/emails/meetings with attorneys
No charge*
$325-$355 per hr
Nursing home placement
Discounted rate
$3250
Nursing home liaison
Discounted rate
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 per hr
No charge
Hourly, $185-$355 per hr
No charge
$450
No charge
$450 per matter
No charge
$90-$185 per hr
No charge*
$325-$355 per hr
Discounted rate
$3250
Discounted rate
Hourly
No charge
$450

* Up to 4 hours of attorney time

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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