The Risk of DIY Planning, Wills

Is Your Will Valid?

Her husband died a couple of months ago. She found what appeared to be a Will in his desk drawer. He had typed it up, signed it,…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

Can I Change My Will Before My Divorce is Final?

Couples who are happily married make different estate planning choices than couples who are separated and heading towards divorce. Happily married couples generally create Wills that protect…

The Risk of DIY Planning, Wills

If I Write My Own Will, Do I Need A Lawyer To File It For Me At The Courts?

The title of this post came from a question I received last week. It’s one of many questions I receive each week that show significant confusion about…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

Will Having a Will Help me Avoid Probate?

I received a note this week from someone who was confused. A friend’s husband had died leaving a Will that gave his wife a house he owned…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

Will Signed Before Marriage Doesn’t Make Provision for Spouse

A widow contacted me this week. Her husband of 19 years had recently passed away. She found a Will he had signed before they met leaving everything…

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 Her mother’s Will was outdated, and needed to be updated.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, FAQs About Wills, Wills

Have You Reviewed Your Will Lately?

I always schedule a document review conference with my clients before they sign their Wills. It gives my clients the opportunity to ask questions they may have…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

Is A Will Valid if the Testator signed the Will Several Days Before the Witnesses?

Section 251.051 of the Texas Estates Code sets forth the requirements of a valid Will in Texas. It provides that a last will and testament: must…

Requirements of a Valid Will, Wills

Can I Make a Will if I am Physically Incapable of Signing a Document?

A Will is an important document. It allows you to specify who will receive your property when you die. To be valid, certain formalities must be…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

Who Can Witness My Will in Texas?

Witnesses have a very important role in Will executions. It’s their job to verify that the Testator executed his will and had testamentary capacity and intent to…