Virtual Estate Planning Attorney - Illinois & Missouri
Benjamin is not just a legal professional but also a compassionate advocate for families in Illinois and Missouri. As the founder and principal of The Edwards Law Offices, he focuses on helping individuals navigate the complexities of estate planning and finalize their estate plans for peace of mind. His dedication to estate planning is deeply personal, driven by his extensive experience and the unfortunate stories he's encountered throughout his career. He has seen families face unnecessary legal battles, financial hardships, and emotional distress due to the lack of a clear estate plan. These experiences have strengthened his commitment to helping individuals and their loved ones avoid similar situations by providing quality estate planning services—such as wills, trusts, powers of attorney, and living wills—at affordable flat fees.
Washington University School of Law, Juris Doctorate (1974)
St. Louis University, B.A., Political Science. (1970)
Bar Admissions
Illinois
Missouri
Federal Court
With a diverse legal background and over 45 years of experience, Benjamin has gained extensive knowledge in various legal roles. He served as a partner in a multi-state general practice firm, representing clients in areas such as real estate, estate planning, juvenile law, guardianship, and bankruptcy. Additionally, he has held positions as an Illinois Assistant Attorney General (family law matters), an Illinois Special Assistant Attorney General (eminent domain), and a Church Judge (International Jurisdiction). He has also acted as an Arbitration Panel Judge, Pro Bono Attorney, Municipal Corporation Counsel, Village Attorney, Township Attorney, School Board Attorney, Church Attorney, and Adjunct College Instructor.
Missouri Bar Association
St. Louis Metropolitan Bar
Former Chairman, Illinois State Bar Association's Committee on Women and Minorities
Former President, Metro-East Bar Association
Church and Community Services
Benjamin actively participates in his Christian faith and church activities. He serves as a steward and has held various roles, including trustee, president of the Lay Organization, president of the Men's Ministry, treasurer of Church School, Sunday School teacher, and superintendent of Sunday School at his former congregation. In addition to his church involvement, Benjamin volunteers as a tutor and mentor for grade and junior high students at ReadWriteLearn For Success, Inc. He has also served on several community organization boards, including the Land of Lincoln Legal Aid Board of Directors and the St. Louis County Habitat for Humanity Advisory Board.
Awards and Special Recognitions
Benjamin's dedication and service have been acknowledged by numerous organizations, each awarding its own distinct honors and recognitions. These include:
■ ■ Man of the Year from St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church-Stl.
■ ■ Certificate of Outstanding Services and Dedication from St. Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church-STL.
■ ■ Certificate of Merit (Law) from Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Delta Epsilon Lambda Chapter.
■ ■ Certificate of Recognition for Community Services from Belleville Bible Way Church, Inc.
■ ■ Sons of Thunder Award from the Missouri Conference of the AME Church, 5th Episcopal District.
■ ■ Leadership Award from the Illinois State Bar Association Standing Committee on Minority and Women.
■ ■ Presidential Award from the Metro-East Bar Association.
■ ■ Certificate of Recognition for Pro Bono Services from St. Clair County Bar Association Pro Bono Project.
Start The Conversation Today For Peace of Mind!
📞 618.215.2020 (Illinois)
📞 314.269.1575 (Missouri)
📧 Email us to schedule a free consultation