W M Law - Estate Planning & Bankruptcy

10/09/2026

Happy Hispanic Heritage Month from W M Law!

Today, our office celebrated with delicious homemade flan and paella, courtesy of Pilar! Thank you, Pilar, for the time, care, and flavor you brought to our table.

We’re proud to celebrate the Mexican and Spanish heritage represented on our team and the traditions that make our workplace special. Sharing food and gathering around the table was a wonderful way to celebrate together.

10/08/2026

Does having a will automatically mean an estate must go through probate in Missouri?

Not necessarily. A will provides instructions for distributing property, but whether probate is required often depends on how each asset is owned and whether a valid beneficiary designation or other nonprobate arrangement is in place.

Assets held in a trust, owned jointly with survivorship rights or directed to a named beneficiary may transfer outside the probate process. Other assets may still require court administration so the will can be validated and the estate properly handled.

Every estate is different. This video explains what probate does, when it may be necessary and which planning tools may help certain assets transfer outside of court.

10/07/2026

What does it mean when a debt is “discharged” in bankruptcy?

A bankruptcy discharge is a court order that releases the person who filed from personal liability for certain debts. It generally prevents creditors from attempting to collect discharged debts through calls, letters, lawsuits or other collection efforts.

However, not every debt is dischargeable. The timing and scope of a discharge can also differ depending on the bankruptcy chapter and the circumstances of the case.

Understanding what a discharge can—and cannot—do is an important part of learning how the bankruptcy process works.

Learn more about the bankruptcy process and which debts may or may not be dischargeable.

10/06/2026

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

At WM Law, we are especially grateful for the Spanish-speaking members of our team. Their language skills help foster clearer communication and create a more welcoming experience for Spanish-speaking members of our community.

Language builds connection. Culture strengthens community.

¡Aquí para ayudar! Here to help.

10/02/2026

Chapter 7 and Chapter 13 are different bankruptcy processes—and the differences can matter when property is involved.

Chapter 7 generally does not include a multiyear repayment plan. However, a bankruptcy trustee may administer property that is not protected by an applicable exemption.

Chapter 13 generally involves a court-supervised repayment plan, commonly lasting three to five years. It may provide a way to retain certain property while completing the plan.

Income, property, debts, exemptions and other circumstances can affect eligibility and the available options. Neither chapter is automatically the right choice for every situation.

Watch the Reel for a brief overview of some important differences between Chapter 7 and Chapter 13.

10/01/2026

A sweet start to October at W M Law!

Cookies made today’s office break a little sweeter.

We’re grateful for the people who make W M Law such a great place to work.

W M Law is Kansas City's Estate Planning and Bankruptcy firm.
The firm has over 28 years of experience helping people in Kansas & Missouri. 5 star Google review rating. W M LAW is Here to Help.

10/01/2026

We appreciate J.D. taking the time to share this thoughtful feedback about W M Law attorney Ryan Blay.

Clear communication and patience can make an unfamiliar legal process feel more manageable. Thank you for placing your confidence in Ryan and the W M Law team.

“Ryan Blay was very patient with our nervous selves. We have complete confidence in the process and would refer him to anyone.”

— J.D.



Learn more about Ryan Blay and the services available through W M Law.

09/30/2026

An estate plan reflects a person’s circumstances and wishes at the time it is created—but life rarely stays exactly the same.

It may be helpful to review existing estate-planning documents following:

• Family changes, such as a marriage, divorce, birth or death
• Significant changes involving property, finances or beneficiaries
• A move to another state

These changes do not necessarily make an existing plan invalid. However, a review can help determine whether the documents still reflect current wishes and circumstances.

Major life changes can be a helpful reminder to review an existing estate plan.

09/29/2026

What does the “automatic stay” mean in a bankruptcy case?

The automatic stay is a legal protection that generally begins when a bankruptcy petition is filed. While it remains in effect, it may temporarily pause many collection activities, including certain collection calls, lawsuits, wage garnishments and repossession efforts.

The automatic stay does not necessarily stop every action. Exceptions and limitations can apply, and a creditor may sometimes request permission from the court to proceed.

How the automatic stay applies depends on the circumstances of each case.

Learn more about how the bankruptcy process works and which protections may apply in a particular situation.

09/28/2026

During Hispanic Heritage Month, we celebrate the cultures, histories and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities.

At WM Law, we are especially grateful for the Spanish-speaking members of our team and the Spanish and Mexican heritage represented within our firm. Their language skills help foster clearer communication and create a more welcoming experience for Spanish-speaking members of our community.

Language builds connection. Culture strengthens community.

Join us in celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month and the people whose cultures, experiences and contributions enrich our communities.