FAQs About Probate
There are three ways in which a personal representative of an estate is appointed: A personal representative can be appointed by a will of a testator,…
Planning for Special Circumstances
NB: A version of this post was published in a recent e-newsletter. It got such a positive response, I thought I’d publish it here as well.
Questions About Estate Tax
Whether you will be required to pay federal estate tax will depend on the value of your gross estate, minus your debts and liabilities. Estate tax…
NB: This article was published on August 2, 2010 and contains information that may be outdated. For current information regarding the estate tax, read:…
In Texas, the level of court involvement in the probate process depends on whether there is a dependent or independent administration. Independent administration Texas allows independent…
Choosing a Guardian
One thing that motivates many parents to make a will is the desire to designate guardians who will raise their children…
NB: This article was published on July 5, 2010 and contains information that may be outdated. For current information regarding the estate tax, read: Estate…
FAQs About Wills
Texas is a community state. There is a presumption that all property acquired during the marriage belongs to the spouses in equal shares, unless it was…
Probating a Will
Generally, a will should be probated as soon as possible. The Texas Estates Code requires that a will be probated within 4 years of a testator’s…
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…