Estate Planning Resources

Articles and guides to help you understand your options for protecting your family and your assets in Texas and North Carolina.

How to Avoid Being a Victim of Fraud

My mother received a phone call from someone claiming to be an Apple representative. The caller claimed that Apple had detected a breach in my mother’s iCloud account. She asked that my mother provide some

What is a Residuary Clause?

I recently worked with a couple that wanted to make sure that all their worldly possessions passed to the surviving spouse upon their death, and then to their children when both of them died. Rather

The Cost of a Do-It-Yourself Will

DIY Wills may seem like a penny-wise solution but may end up costing more in the long run than a Will drafted by an attorney.

A Holographic Will That Worked…But At What Cost?

DIY Wills can seem like a cost-effective solution, but the consequences of a poorly drafted will can cost you more in the long run.

Wacky Wednesday: Wills That Make You Go “Hmmm…” – Leona Helmsley

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. Leona Helmsley is often referred to as the

How Often Should I Update My Will?

Life Changes Can Result In Unintended Consequences, Even For Those With Wills Many years ago, I read an essay entitled “second-chance family” that reinforced the importance of keeping a Will updated. It was written by

Why Should My Will Include a Self-Proving Affidavit?

Attorney Rania Combs discusses how a self-proved Will can speed up the probate process and save time and expense.

What is a Self-Proving Affidavit?

A self-proving affidavit is a sworn statement that accompanies a Will. In the case of an attested Will, the testator and all witnesses sign it in the presence of a notary. The self-proving affidavit affirms

If Lawyers Aren’t Perfect, Why Aren’t DIY Wills Good Enough?

A reader submitted a comment to my article titled “LegalZoom vs. Lawyer: What You Don’t Know Can Hurt You.” This reader’s view of lawyers had been shaped by his experience in a protracted divorce proceeding.

Why Do People Use Lawyers To Prepare Their Wills?

Attorneys use years of schooling and experience to advise you on the best way to accomplish your estate planning goals. DIY services do not.

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