Missouri Probate and Mental Health Case Types refer to the legal proceedings taken in Missouri courts to handle matters relating to wills, estates, trusts, guardianship, conservatorships, and mental health. There are three main types of Missouri probate and mental health cases: probate, guardianship, and conservatorship cases. Probate cases are those in which the court must determine the validity of a will or oversee the administration and distribution of an estate. This includes determining the validity of debts and claims against the decedent's estate, distributing the estate according to the terms of the will (if any), and authorizing the payment of taxes and other expenses. Guardianship and conservatorship cases involve the appointment of a guardian or conservator to act on behalf of an incapacitated person or minor. A guardian is a person appointed to make decisions on behalf of an incapacitated adult, while a conservator is appointed to manage the financial affairs of an incapacitated person or minor. Mental health cases involve proceedings related to the involuntary commitment of individuals to mental health treatment facilities. These cases involve a determination of whether an individual poses a danger to themselves or others, or is unable to care for themselves due to their mental condition.