Legal Articles

Determining a Grantor’s Intent in Trusts

When interpreting a trust, the Settlor’s “intent is controlling and such intention must be ascertained primarily from the trust instrument as a whole.” Berezo v. Berezo, 628 S.W.3d 737, 743-44 (Mo. App. E.D. 2021). Because language and circumstances vary, the Court must examine “the specific language as well as the surrounding circumstances.” Matter of TR…

Deed Delivery, Recording

Deeds are the legal documents used to convey ownership and title to land. “Delivery” of the deed gives the instrument force and effect. Rhodes v. Hunt, 913 S.W.2d 894 900 (Mo. Ct. App. 1995). “Delivery signifies that all dominion and control over the deed is passed from the grantor (i.e., the person conveying the property) to…

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