FAQs About Probate, Probate

Who Can File An Application for Probate?

If an executor is named in a Will, then that person is generally the most logical person to file an application to probate the Will. The Texas Estates Code…

Estate Planning, FAQs About Estate Planning

Can a Relative Notarize My Estate Planning Documents?

According to the Texas Secretary of State, there is no rule that specifically prohibits a notary from notarizing documents for a relative; however, notaries should refrain from notarizing…

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, Questions About Estate Tax

Did the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Preserve the Step-Up in Basis?

Under our country’s tax laws, it is the person making a gift (the donor) who is responsible for any gift tax that is due. The gift’s recipient…

Estate Planning, Questions About Estate Tax

The State of the Estate Tax After Tax Cuts and Jobs Act

The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act was signed into law on December 22, 2017. It represents the most significant tax overhaul in decades. Although efforts by the…

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…

Planning for Special Circumstances

What Are the Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s Disease?

The symptoms of Alzheimer’s and dementia can develop slowly over a number of years, which sometimes makes it easy to mistake them for normal, age-related cognitive decline…

Odds and Ends

A Season of Peace

Texas is the home of a diverse population, so in addition to working with clients whose families have lived in Texas for generations, I’ve also had the…

Probating a Will

Where Should A Will Be Probated In Texas?

According to Section 33.001 of the Texas Estates Code, a will should be admitted to probate in the Texas county where the decedent was domiciled or…

Medical Powers of Attorney and Directives

Can a Minor Child Witness a Medical Power of Attorney?

“My mom has a power of attorney that was witnessed by someone under 18,” she said. “Is it valid?” The Texas statutes specify that a medical power…