Odds and Ends

Have You Signed Your Will?

Humans are optimistic. We don’t dwell on the fact that death is inevitable, and that bleeds into our personal outlook for the future. It’s why we plan…

FAQs About Wills

What is a Testamentary Trust?

A testamentary trust is a dormant trust created in a Will.  It lies dormant until the death of the person creating it springs it to life.  Unlike…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Before You Pack

My family is going on vacation the end of June. It’s a trip we’ve been planning for more than six months, and we’re looking…

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…

Odds and Ends

Would You Rather Die Than Vote For Trump or Clinton?

If you’re discontented with your choices for president this year, you will appreciate Mary Ann Noland’s obituary, which suggests she chose to die rather than vote for…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

How Will I Know If My College Student Has a Medical Emergency When Away at School?

If you are the parent of a high school senior, you’re probably feeling a whirlwind of emotion right now. Just thinking about the fact that I…

The Texas Transfer on Death Deed

Will Property Transferred by Texas Transfer on Death Deed be Subject to Medicaid Estate Recovery?

Following the death of someone receiving Medicaid benefits, Medicaid has the power to recoup from his or her estate funds expended by Medicaid for that individual’s benefit.

Planning for Special Circumstances

Who Will Take Care of my Disabled Child When I Die?

As parents of children with disabilities age, thinking about who will take care of their children after they become disabled or die can cause significant anxiety. Choosing a…

FAQs About Powers of Attorney and Directives

Is an Advance Directive Signed In Another State Valid in Texas?

A living will, or directive to physicians, is a document that allows you to instruct your physicians not to use artificial methods to extend your life in…

FAQs About Powers of Attorney and Directives

Can I Get Medical Power of Attorney Over an Incapacitated Person?

A distraught mother contacted me. Her daughter was incapacitated in an intensive care unit as a result of a drug overdose, and her drug-addicted son-in-law was in…