Christopher Riddle
Where Your Family’s Future Meets Trusted Guidance and Lasting Protection.My journey into law, particularly elder law and estate planning, began with a deeply personal experience involving my grandfather. He was a hardworking man who spent his life providing for his family and ensuring that his legacy would carry on after he was gone. His dedication to building a better future for our family inspired me to take on the responsibility of helping him plan for what would come next. Several years ago, he approached me for advice on organizing his estate. Recognizing the importance of preserving his legacy and ensuring his wishes were honored, I worked closely with a trusted attorney who specialized in elder law and estate planning. Together, we created a plan that included a trust, allowing his estate to transition seamlessly, avoiding probate and safeguarding his assets for future generations. When he passed away in August 2021, his wishes were carried out exactly as he hoped. To this day, my mom thanks me for helping him take those steps, which ultimately allowed my parents to purchase the farm they now live on — a lasting piece of his legacy that continues to enrich our family. This experience solidified my commitment to helping others protect what matters most to them. Estate planning doesn’t have to be overwhelming or confusing. My goal is to simplify the process for you, ensuring that your assets are protected, your loved ones are cared for, and your wishes are honored. With a well-crafted plan, I strive to provide peace of mind and clarity for you and your family. I’m not just your attorney — I’m someone who understands the importance of protecting the people and values you hold dear. My goal is to be a trusted partner in helping you create a secure and meaningful legacy for your family. Let’s work together to plan for tomorrow with confidence and peace of mind.
- Estate Planning
- Guardianship & Conservatorship Estate Administration, Health Care Directives, Trusts, Wills
- Probate
- Probate Administration, Probate Litigation, Will Contests
- Elder Law
-
Free Consultation
Free 15 minute phone consultation. - Credit Cards Accepted
-
Contingent Fees
33%
- Arkansas
- Arkansas Judiciary
-
- William H. Bowen School of Law
- J.D. (2017) | Law
- -
-
- Ouachita Baptist University
- Bachelor of Music (2003) | Vocal Performance
- -
-
- Website
- The Riddle Firm
- Q. Do I need a lawyer for a $20,000 real estate transfer in a small estate claim with a beneficiary deed in Arkansas?
- A: Great Question! I typically advise potential clients if the estate is less than $100,000, they should be able to resolve everything on their own. I would suggest reviewing the Arkansas Statute regarding Affidavits of Small Estate. As long as there are no legal issues at stake (multiple potential heirs, etc.), then a beneficiary deed immediately transferred the property to the beneficiary listed in the deed at the death of the Grantor listed on the deed.
- Q. Will not registered, fourth wife claiming all, next steps?
- A: I'm sorry for your loss. In Arkansas, if you believe a will exists but is being withheld, you can file a petition with the probate court in the county where your father lived. The court can compel the person suspected of holding the will—such as your father’s wife—to produce it. Even if the will hasn’t been filed or isn’t available, you or another heir can open a probate case as if there is no will (intestate), which puts the estate under court supervision and can trigger further investigation.
Once the estate is opened, the court can help identify and locate important documents. You may be able to subpoena banks, lawyers, or others who might have information about the will ... Read More
- Q. Seeking guardianship for husband with Alzheimer's in Arkansas despite having POA and directives.
- A: Hi, there! I am sorry to hear that your husband has been diagnosed with Alzheimers. Having both a financial Power of Attorney and healthcare directives in place shows how deeply you care and how well you’ve planned for your husband’s needs. In Arkansas, because you already have these documents, you do not need to seek guardianship.
Your Durable Power of Attorney allows you to manage his financial affairs even if he becomes fully incapacitated, but only if you have been appointed the agent in his Power of Attorney. Your healthcare directive gives you full authority to make medical decisions, if you are the agent. The courts view guardianship as a last resort — only necessary if there’s ... Read More
