Rule Against Perpetuities in Missouri

The rule against perpetuities is not defined in Missouri. It follows the common law definition in that no interest in property is good unless it must vest, if at all, not later than 21 years, plus period of gestation, after some life or lives in being at time of creation of the interest. There is a statutory provision which states that other provisions or limitations in an instrument, which do not violate the rule, are valid. Also, the instrument may be reformed if the reformation would more closely approximate the primary purpose or scheme of the grantor, settlor or testator. (Section 442.555 Missouri Revised Statutes)