Estate Planning Resources

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

Ding Dong, The Witch Is Dead!

The article contrasts a loving obituary for Mary A. “Pink” Mullaney with a harsh obituary describing Marianne Theresa Johnson-Reddick as cruel and violent.

What is a Muniment of Title?

A muniment of title can provide an efficient alternative to full estate administration when a valid Will exists, qualifying debts are absent, and formal administration is unnecessary.

Can A Spouse Access Health Care Information Without A HIPAA Authorization?

The article explains that a spouse generally needs a signed HIPAA authorization to discuss a patient’s medical information, including billing issues, with health care providers or insurance companies.

Sign A Durable Power of Attorney Before It’s Too Late

A durable power of attorney must be signed while a person still has the mental capacity to authorize someone else to manage their financial affairs.

Does My College Student Need Estate Planning?

Once a child turns 18, parents may need a Durable Power of Attorney, Medical Power of Attorney, and HIPAA authorization to access financial or medical information and help during an emergency.

If You Don’t Have a Will, Texas Makes One For You

The article explains how dying without a Will in Texas can cause property to pass under a statutory formula rather than according to the deceased person's wishes.

Defining “Handwriting” for Purposes of a Holographic Will

This article explains that a Texas holographic Will may be handwritten in cursive, print, or both, but it cannot include typed portions.

How Many Witnesses Need to Sign A Will In Texas?

The article explains that Texas holographic Wills do not require witnesses, while attested Wills must be witnessed by at least two credible witnesses over age 14.

IRS Recognizes Same-Sex Marriages For Federal Tax Purposes

Revenue Ruling 2013-17 recognized legally married same-sex couples for federal tax purposes, including eligibility for the unlimited marital deduction and estate tax portability regardless of where they lived.

What is the Difference Between Medical and Durable Power of Attorney?

This article explains that a durable power of attorney covers specified business, financial, and legal transactions during incapacity, while a medical power of attorney authorizes health care decisions.

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