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What Is A Small Estate Affidavit Proceeding And What Does It Cost?
In this series of blogs, I am outlining various different types of probates or probate alternatives to settle an estate and their likely costs. As I mentioned in the introduction to this series, the cost is predominantly determined by the type of procedure followed.
Read MoreThe Cost Of A General Affidavit Of Heirship In Texas
In this series of blogs, I am outlining various types of probates or probate alternatives to settle an estate and their likely costs. As I mentioned in the introduction to this series, the cost is predominantly determined by the type of procedure followed.
Read MoreThe Average Cost Of A Determination Of Heirship Proceeding In Texas
In some situations where a loved one passes away without a Will, you may need a determination of heirship in order to pass on their estate. If you find yourself in this situation, make sure you have an experienced attorney to guide you through the steps involved. Otherwise, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by the process.
Read MoreThe Risks Of Online & DIY Estate Planning
Many people turn to free online forms or online templates to complete their estate planning, rather than meeting with an attorney. Unfortunately, there are many unexpected consequences to online or DIY estate planning. These "cheaper" options can lead to your Will being contested, invalidated, or requiring extra expense to probate. It can also result in an outcome that isn’t what you would have wanted. When it comes to estate planning in Texas, working with an experienced probate attorney is the best way to ensure your assets and wishes are protected.
Read MoreTop 10 Reasons You Need A Will
There are many reasons people put off creating a Will. However, this decision can cost your family a lot of money and heartache in the long run. It can also lead to your estate being distributed in ways that you would not want. Drawing up a Will provides a number of benefits, from allowing you to choose exactly how your estate will be distributed to providing for stepchildren or restricting the rights of the surviving spouse to change a joint plan for the distribution of assets.
Read MoreThe Top 5 Reasons People Put Off Drawing Up A Will (And Why You Never Should)
Preparing a Will is a smart, compassionate, financially wise, and easy thing to do. So, stop making excuses, and do it! Anyone who has been through settling an estate for a loved one who failed to make a Will can attest to how much they would have preferred the alternative.
Read MoreWhat Do I Do If A Loved One Dies Without A Will?
When a loved one dies without a Will in Texas, you have three options: 1) if statutory requirements are met, a Small Estate Affidavit probate, 2) a formal court Determination of Heirship and estate administration, or 3) an informal Affidavit of Heirship document. These are the steps involved in these proceedings, as well as best practices to follow.
Read MoreIs There More Than One Type Of Probate For When There Is A Will? [Probate Q&A Video Series]
There are two types of probate where there is a Will in Texas that can be followed to distribute a loved one's estate after he or she passes away. Formal probate is a longer, more complex process. On the other hand, probate as a muniment of title is a simple and affordable way to ensure your loved one's assets are distributed as required in the Will. The type of probate applicable to your situation will depend on a number of factors.
Read MoreProbate As A Muniment Of Title In Texas: What Is It & What Does It Cost?
If your loved one died with a Will, there are several different types of probate available in Texas. The complexity of the proceeding and the cost varies widely depending on which type of probate you can or must use to pass your loved one's estate. The simplest and least expensive type of probate is known as a "muniment of title" proceeding.
Read MoreWhen Is The Cost Of A Living Trust Not Worth It?
One of my biggest pet peeves over the years has been the over-selling of living trust packages to folks doing their estate planning. There are definitely times when a living trust is a good estate planning tool. However, for many individuals a living trust is an unnecessary expense.
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