FAQs About Probate, Probate

Will Former Spouse Inherit Bank Account if Named as P.O.D. Beneficiary?

I received a note recently from someone whose brother had recently passed away. Her brother was divorced and had no children. He was survived by four siblings.

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…

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…

FAQs About Probate, Probate

Is There a Way to Find a Deceased Person Missing Life Insurance Policy?

The sudden death of a spouse is devastating, and the devastation can be magnified when financial pressures abound. In families which rely on the deceased spouse’s income…

FAQs About Probate

Do I Have To Accept An Inheritance?

I have written about a deadbeat dad who claimed part of his deceased son’s estate, even though he had not been part of his son’s…

FAQs About Probate

What To Do When Someone Dies In Texas

I get phone calls and emails each week from people who are grieving the death of a family member. They’re often confused and overwhelmed…

FAQs About Probate

Who is Qualified to Serve an Executor or Administrator of an Estate?

Section 304.003 of the Texas Estates Code identifies persons who are disqualified from serving as Executor or Administrator of an estate. This Section provides that a…

FAQs About Probate

Is Probate Necessary to Transfer Title to a Vehicle?

I received an email recently from someone whose unmarried brother had died without a will.  He was survived by both his parents, one full…

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 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:…