Questions About Estate Tax

The Future of the Estate Tax

NB: This article was published on July 25, 2012 and contains information that may be outdated. For current information regarding the estate tax, read: Estate Tax Certainty…For…

FAQs About Trusts

Should I Designate My Children’s Guardian as Beneficiaries of My Life Insurance Policy?

I spoke to a young mother several weeks ago who wanted information on how to legally name a guardian for her minor children. She explained that…

FAQs About Estate Planning, FAQs About Probate

Will My Estate Be Responsible For My Student Loans?

Statistically, having a bachelor’s degree doubles your lifetime earning potential. But that degree often comes with a high cost, which most families are unable to afford…

FAQs About Dying Without A Will

Why Do I Need A Will?

Each state has a vested interest in the orderly transfer of property after someone dies. It’s so important, in fact, that if you don’t have a will, the…

FAQs About Probate

Who Can Contest a Will In Texas?

According to Section 55.001 of the Texas Estates Code, any person interested in an estate can contest a will. The Estates Code defines an “interested” person as:…

Requirements of a Valid Will

Does a Will Need to be Notarized in Texas?

In Texas, Wills do not need to be notarized to be valid.  However, the required formalities of a valid Texas Will differ depending on whether the…

How Property Distributed When Someone Dies Without A Will

Who Inherits When Unmarried Sibling Dies Without a Will in Texas

When an unmarried sibling dies without a will in Texas, the distribution of his estate will depend on whether he has any surviving descendants or parents. If…

Wacky Wills

Wacky Will Wednesday: Wills That Make You Go Hmmm… – James Doohan

NB: This post is part of a series highlighting wills that contain some interesting, and sometimes bizarre, bequests and stipulations. You can see all these posts here.

Requirements of a Valid Will

Is an Unsigned Will Valid in Texas?

Last week, I discussed why estate planning is important despite our optimistic outlook for the future. The article was prompted by an email I received…

Planning for Special Circumstances

Hoping For the Best Shouldn’t Keep Us From Preparing for the Worst

We Americans are an optimistic bunch. Despite our economic downturn, the majority of us are optimistic about our futures and being in control of our lives.