Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

How to Sign Estate Planning Documents in a Pandemic

UPDATE: On April 8, 2020, Governor Abbott issued an order temporarily allowing regular notaries to notarize the following documents by video conference: durable powers of attorney, medical powers…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Planning for a PandemicFor a summary of CDC recommendations for adults over 60, read:

My children asked me yesterday how many times in my life the world has dealt with a pandemic like COVID-19. I couldn’t think of any other. COVID-19…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Will Transferring My Homestead to a Revocable Trust Prevent Me From Qualifying For Medicaid?

Medicaid is a means-tested benefit that provides health insurance for Americans with limited financial resources and income. To be eligible for Medicaid coverage, applicants can have no…

Common Estate Planning Mistakes, Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Your Estate Plan May Need To Be Tweaked: The SECURE Act Has Passed

Rania Combs discusses how the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act) may require changes to your estate plan.

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

What are the Rights and Responsibilities of a Life Tenant in Texas?

In Texas, life tenant has important legal rights and responsibilities when occupying property under a life estate. Understanding these key legal insights helps ensure compliance with Texas law…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

A Poor Prognosis? Call Your Estate Planning Lawyer!

I worked with a young couple last year. Both were in good health. They were happily married, had two small children, and were busy balancing their careers…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Does Your Insurance Policy Name Your Ex-Spouse As a Beneficiary?

Suppose you have a life insurance policy issued as part of an employee benefit plan which identifies your spouse as your primary beneficiary and your adult daughter…

Planning for Special Circumstances

Five Reasons Why Parents of Young Children Need Estate Planning

If you are a parent of young children, getting your estate plans in order can help you ensure that your minor children will be protected in the…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Estate Planning For College Students

Eighteen years ago, as I strolled through Babies”R”Us with my newborn baby propped on my shoulder, a middle-aged woman walked up to me and said: “Enjoy…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

The Risks of Living in Denial of Early Alzheimer’s Symptoms

Last week, I discussed the ten warning signs of Alzheimer’s disease and the fact that because symptoms progress slowly, many family members live in denial until…