Special Needs Trusts

What is a Pooled Special Needs Trust?

Special needs trusts are trusts that hold assets for a disabled beneficiary and distribute funds in a way that preserves the beneficiary’s eligibility to receive public…

FAQs About Probate, Probate

Can Proceeds of Insurance Policy be Seized to Pay Debts of an Estate?

After you die, your estate is responsible for your debts. Creditors can make claims against your probate estate for what you owe. Assets such as life insurance…

Newsworthy

Celebrating Seven Years!

The past year was an eventful one for my firm. Below are some of the few highlights have helped start 2017 on a positive note. Today marks my firm’s…

Odds and Ends

Wishing You Peace

As the year draws to a close, I have a lot for which to be thankful: My greatest joy is my family, and I am thankful for…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

What are the Mental Requirements for Making a Will?

A concerned daughter contacted me. Her mother’s Will was outdated, and needed to be updated. She has been wanting to make changes for years, but getting this…

Estate Planning, FAQs About Estate Planning

Will Your Surviving Spouse Disinherit Your Children

I have written before that if you are part of a blended family, making an outright distribution to your spouse may result in your children from…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Beware of Love Scams

Is your elderly parent or grandparent involved in a new relationship with someone significantly younger? If so, beware. Thanksgiving may be a good time for you to…

Estate Planning, FAQs About Estate Planning

Can I Name Someone Other Than My Spouse As Beneficiary Of My 401(k)?

A concerned relative contacted me. Her cousin had been married for eight years before her recent death. Her deceased cousin had a son from a prior marriage.

FAQs About Probate, Probate

Is it Possible to Avoid Probate in Texas without a Revocable Trust?

I have written before that Texas has one of the most simplified probate processes in the country. If a testator instructs in his will that there…

Estate Planning, Retirement and End of Life Care

Living Life to the Fullest!

As an estate planning attorney, I’ve had the great privilege of working with many individuals who are nearing the end of their lives. Although elderly and sometimes…