In Texas, our probate laws are relatively simple and direct. While the primary goal of estate planning in some states is specifically to avoid probate, in Texas, if you have the right kind of pre-planning done probate can be simple and relatively cost efficient. Still, there are numerous occasions and situations when families want to avoid…
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To create and execute a Durable Power of Attorney (DPOA), you must be “competent,” also referred to as “of sound mind.” That means you must have the mental capacity to understand the benefits, risks and effect of signing the document. You can easily revoke your DPOA as long as you are of sound mind, but doing so…
Are you a parent of a child with special needs? You may need special estate planning. Why? What’s the benefit of estate planning that is geared specifically to meet special needs? One important reason is that if assets are left directly to your special needs child, either through a will or through intestacy, that inheritance…
Sometimes, the notion of “family” can be a difficult concept. No matter if you hold the traditional view that marriage is a union of one man and one woman who should stay married ’til death do they part, or you believe in something vastly different, there’s no denying that the concept of “family,” as society at…
Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, your family is a ticking time bomb. Step-kids that can’t stand you, drama at every family event, or maybe just an uncomfortable peace that you never really trust. Unfortunately, it happens more often than not. The pain is real and can last forever. While some people may work…
Today, “family” means nearly any construct of people. Perhaps the most prolific family ‘type’ in modern times has been the unmarried couple whocohabitate throughliving together outside of a formal maritalrelationship. The people we lovingly say are “shacking up.” It’s pretty common for people to look at living together as the next logical step in the progression of…
Don’t fail your loved ones when it comes to addressing online accounts- take the proper steps so that your loved ones are prepared to address your digital footprint. Globally, our online presence and daily use of digital resources is astounding. A majority of Americans do some or most of their banking online and a vast…
Transfer of a Mineral Estate When probating or administering mineral interests, it becomes necessary to identify mineral interests for purposes of property inventory and transfer of legal ownership. Starting Point: Where is the Property? First, obtain enough information to identify the location and type of mineral interests. Often, you may not have that information readily…
Divorce can factor into an individual’s estate plan, retirement plans, or business interests. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering divorce. Divorce and Wills During the divorce process, the last thing on anyone’s mind is what would happen if they unexpectedly pass away or become seriously ill. Most people…
Nearly everyone in America would benefit from the security of having a basic estate plan that includes a Will, Powers of Attorney (both financial and medical) and an Advance Directive (sometimes referred to as a Living Will.) If you fall into the category of pre-planning Americans who have already completed their plan, you’ve gone further…