Estate Planning Resources

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

Can Stepchildren Force a Surviving Spouse to Sell Homestead Property?

In Texas, stepchildren generally cannot force a surviving spouse to sell homestead property while the spouse occupies and uses it as a homestead.

Is an Executor Required to be a US Citizen?

Texas law does not bar a non-U.S. citizen from serving as an executor or administrator, although other statutory disqualifications and court-determined unsuitability may apply.

Who Inherits If The Beneficiary Of My Will Dies Before Me?

This article explains how Texas law handles a Will beneficiary who dies before the testator, including survival requirements, contingent beneficiaries, lapsed gifts, and residuary distribution.

Can I Rewrite a Deceased Persons’ Will?

A deceased person's Will cannot be rewritten after death because only the testator can amend or revoke it during their lifetime.

What is the Difference between a First-Party and a Third-Party Special Needs Trust?

This article explains how first-party and third-party Special Needs Trusts differ in funding, establishment, age limits, Medicaid pay-back requirements, and control of remaining assets.

Is A Will Signed By One Witness Valid If It Is Also Signed by a Notary?

The article discusses Texas case law holding that a notary’s signature may qualify as a second witness for a Will or codicil signed by only one witness.

The Complexities of Intestacy in Non-Traditional Families

The article explains how Texas intestacy laws can leave a surviving partner in a non-traditional family without the deceased partner’s property when there is no Will.

Do I Have to be an Adult to Make a Will in Texas?

In Texas, a person generally must be at least 18 and of sound mind to make a Will, unless the person is or has been married or serves in specified military or maritime roles.

Ending the Year on a High Note…Again!

The attorney was included in Houstonia Magazine’s 2014 “Top Lawyers” list for the second consecutive year based on Avvo ratings.

Would You Choose Physician-Assisted Suicide If You Had A Terminal Illness?

The article examines Brittany Maynard’s decision to use Oregon’s physician-assisted suicide law after a terminal brain cancer diagnosis and considers the ethical debate surrounding her choice.

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