Blog
Don't Be Afraid Of Probate: What Probate Is & How It Works [Probate Q&A Video Series]
What is probate? Probate, while usually referred to as any legal action to handle an estate, is actually the administration of a Will upon the death of an individual.
Read MoreEstate Planning Is Not Just For Old People: The Benefits Of Early Estate Planning
Unfortunately, it's all too common for parents to put off estate planning to protect the settlement of their estates for the loved ones left behind because they don't believe they are old enough to think about this. Or, commonly, younger people believe estate planning is too expensive for them to take on at this stage in their lives. Neither of these things are true!
Read MoreDo I Need A Living Trust? [Estate Planning Q&A Video Series]
Many people have heard the term living trust and think it is a magical estate planning tool for everyone. For some people, a living trust truly is a smart way to handle their estate, but for others, it is an unnecessary expense.
Read MoreUse This Slick Trick To Transfer Real Estate Without Probate In Texas
Texas law has recognized an estate planning trick that is extremely effective to help avoid probate and is low cost, called a deed with an enhanced retained life estate or “Lady Bird” deed. This tool can be used for all types of real estate interests.
Read MoreAdvance Care Planning Tools To Help Avoid Probate
Sometimes, even when a person has drawn up a Will, probate of the Will may not be necessary. Advance planning with probate-alternative documents can avoid the need for probate in many cases.
Read MoreWhat Is A Muniment Of Title Probate, And When Is It Appropriate?
Texas law provides for a shortened, less complicated, less expensive form of probate in specific circumstances. This is called probate as a muniment of title. It is a simple process compared to a full, regular probate.
Read MoreCost Of A Prenuptial Or Postnuptial Agreement
I have written about how a prenuptial or postnuptial agreement can be an element in an effective financial plan or an estate plan. Many people believe that it is very expensive to have a prenup or postnup drawn up. The expense will depend totally on the situation, and may not be nearly as large as you might think.
Read MoreWhen Can You Do A Small Estate Affidavit Procedure In Texas?
Has a loved one passed away without a Will? In some cases, you can avoid a lot of frustration by using a Small Estate Affidavit to legally transfer assets at very little expense to you.
Read MoreDo You Have a Blended Family? Estate Planning is Critical for You
Estate planning is especially important for people with blended families in the state of Texas. Without a Will, probate issues can be complicated and the result may not be what the deceased person might have wanted. If you have a blended family, here's how to provide for your estate to pass as you desire.
Read More3 Reasons You May Need A Guardianship
Guardianships are a complicated legal proceeding. Most people have no clue exactly how complicated and expensive they are. In some situations, however, a guardianship is required to manage the affairs of a loved one.
Read More