The Law Offices of BJ Richardson, LLC Information

BJ received his Juris Doctor from Saint Louis University and Master of Laws in Taxation from The of University of Missouri – Kansas City. Mr. Richardson has had an impact on the Springfield community since his arrival in 2004. In this short period of time, he now owns, operates and manages The Law Offices of BJ Richardson, LLC. He has been named one of the Springfield Business Journal’s "40 Under 40", held presidency of a local chapter of Business Networking International called Springfield Business Connection, helped establish the Hamels Foundation, taught continuing education classes to local attorneys, taught undergraduate classes, and helped organize several charitable events. Estate Planning: Basic estate planning is usually the first step in the planning process. It always begins with an evaluation of the client’s objectives and family and economic situation. We advise our clients about alternative methods of holding title, such as community property versus separate property, the use of revocable living trusts, the advantages and disadvantages of joint tenancy, and the appropriate use of specific business entities. After working together with the client to develop an appropriate plan, we prepare the necessary documentation needed to implement it. This is likely to include revocable living trusts and powers of attorney for property management and health care. Business Planning: Mr. Richardson works closely with clients to ensure optimum terms for the transfer of business interests to the next generation, from the tax as well as the non-tax perspective, including consideration of family dynamics and the client’s wish to minimize conflicts among family members and co-owners. He has expertise in designing family limited partnerships and limited liability companies, and in utilizing buy-sell agreements, often including life insurance arrangements, in a variety of situations.