Probate in Missouri, handled for you
Missouri settles estates through the Circuit Court, Probate Division. Missouri does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. A small-estate affidavit is available for estates under $40,000. Kindred handles the administration for one flat fee.
Missouri lets you handle an uncontested probate without a lawyer. Missouri does not strictly require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. Kindred handles the administrative work; if anything is contested, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing.
The four things families ask first
Hourly / flat fee
Read moreA typical Missouri probate runs about 8 to 14 months, driven mainly by the 6-month creditor-claim period.
Read more$40,000
Read moreCircuit Court, Probate Division, in the county where the person lived
What it could cost in Missouri
≈ 45 hours of admin and legal work, all billed at lawyer rates.
Kindred + your attorney
Estimated difference vs. a full-service firm
$5,500
+ about 150 hours of your own time
Full-service estimated at $250–$400/hr for ~45hours; the attorney figure is an illustrative fixed fee. Illustrative only — not a quote or legal advice. Figures vary by estate. We're not a law firm; an independent attorney always handles the legal work.
Frequently asked
Do I need a lawyer for probate in Missouri?
Not strictly — Missouri does not require an attorney for an ordinary, uncontested probate. Kindred handles the administrative work for a flat fee. If a dispute arises, we flag it so you can bring in an attorney of your choosing. Kindred is not a law firm.
How much does probate cost in Missouri?
No statutory percentage fee — attorneys typically bill $200-$350/hour or a flat fee. Filing fees run about $150-$250. Estates under $40,000 can use a small-estate affidavit. These are illustrative figures.
How long does probate take in Missouri?
Typically 8 to 14 months. Creditors have 6 months from publication of notice to file claims. An inventory is due within 90 days of appointment.
Last verified July 2026. Figures are illustrative and vary by estate — not a quote or legal advice. Kindred is not a law firm and does not provide legal advice; we handle the administrative work and coordinate an independent attorney where one is legally required.
You don't have to carry this alone.
Tell us about the estate on a free, no-obligation call. We'll map out exactly what needs to happen — and how we'd take it off your plate.
Start with fixed-fee Estate Setup, then choose the right package.
Tell us about your situation
Has the person passed away?
Your relationship to them