Estate Planning Resources

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

Celebrating Two Years!

The author reflects on her firm’s second anniversary, the growth of web-based law practices, and technology’s role in helping women lawyers balance family commitments with solo practice.

The Unintended Consequences of Not Having A Will: Deadbeat Dad Claims Part of Deceased Son’s Estate

The Timothy Cole case illustrates how dying without a Will in Texas can allow an estranged parent to inherit under the state's intestacy statutes.

Happy Holidays from Rania Combs!

Rania Combs thanks her family, colleagues, blogging community, and clients while sharing warm wishes for a happy and prosperous new year.

What Is A Contingent Trust?

A contingent trust is created only if specified conditions exist when the testator dies, such as children being under a certain age or an heir being incapacitated.

Saying Goodbye

A personal reflection on choosing euthanasia for an aging dog and the importance of sharing healthcare wishes before loved ones must make end-of-life decisions.

Happy Thanksgiving!

The article encourages families to discuss guardianship and healthcare wishes during the Thanksgiving weekend and formally document those wishes through estate planning.

How Does Divorce Affect the Rights of Stepchildren Who Are Named In A Will?

In Texas, divorce generally treats a former spouse and the former spouse’s non-related relatives as having predeceased the testator, so named stepchildren may not inherit under the Will unless it provides otherwise.

Estate Planning Tips That Prevent Family Feuds

The article explains how sentimental personal belongings can cause family conflicts after death and offers estate-planning strategies to clarify who should receive them.

People Ineligible To Be Appointed As Guardian

This article explains which people Texas law identifies as ineligible or potentially unsuitable to be appointed guardian of a child.

What Happens If A Beneficiary Of A Will Dies First?

The article explains how Texas law distributes a Will beneficiary’s share when that beneficiary dies before the testator, including rules for descendants, residuary beneficiaries, and contingent gifts.

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