FAQs About Probate
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:…
Requirements of a Valid Will
In Texas, Wills do not need to be notarized to be valid. However, the required formalities of a valid Texas Will differ depending on whether the…
How Property Distributed When Someone Dies Without A Will
When an unmarried sibling dies without a will in Texas, the distribution of his estate will depend on whether he has any surviving descendants or parents. If…
Wacky Wills
NB: This post is part of a series highlighting wills that contain some interesting, and sometimes bizarre, bequests and stipulations. You can see all these posts here.
Last week, I discussed why estate planning is important despite our optimistic outlook for the future. The article was prompted by an email I received…
Planning for Special Circumstances
We Americans are an optimistic bunch. Despite our economic downturn, the majority of us are optimistic about our futures and being in control of our lives.
Newsworthy
When I shared my plans to start a Web-based law practice several years ago, most attorneys I told were a bit skeptical that it would…
Financial Powers of Attorney
If you were to become incapacitated, who would pay your utility bills, file your taxes or otherwise manage your financial affairs? If you have not legally named…
I got a heartbreaking call from young woman recently that highlights the importance of updating ones’ insurance beneficiary designations after major life events. She and…
FAQs About Trusts
Many people mistakenly believe that putting their assets into a revocable trust will shelter those assets from creditors. This is not the case. A revocable living trust…