FAQs About Trusts, Trusts

What is a Crummey Trust?

When I tell some of my clients they should consider Crummey Trusts for their beneficiaries, there is typically an awkward pause. “Why would I want to create…

Estate Planning, The Texas Transfer on Death Deed

The Texas Transfer on Death Deed

Below are answers to a few FAQs about the Texas Transfer on Death Deed along with quick links to get you to the information you are seeking:…

FAQs About Trusts, Trusts

Understanding Asset Protection Trusts in Texas

Amendments to the Texas Property Code appear to create a back door to create a self-settled asset protection trust in Texas.

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Frequently Asked Questions About Texas ABLE Accounts

Barrack Obama signed the Achieving a Better Life Experience “(ABLE”) Act into on December 19, 2014. It requires each state to pass its own ABLE Act. Governor Greg…

Planning for Special Circumstances, The Complexities of Intestacy in Blended Families

Estate Planning in Blended Families

According to a Pew Research Study, more than 4 in 10 Americans are part of a blended family.  And while 7 in 10 are…

FAQs About Wills, Wills

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.

FAQs About Wills, Wills

Is A Fill-In-The-Blank Will Valid in Texas?

John was just about to go on vacation. He wanted to have a Will in place in case a tragic accident occurred. So, he did what many…

Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

How to Sign Estate Planning Documents in a Pandemic

UPDATE: On April 8, 2020, Governor Abbott issued an order temporarily allowing regular notaries to notarize the following documents by video conference: durable powers of attorney, medical powers…

Common Estate Planning Mistakes, Estate Planning, Planning for Special Circumstances

Your Estate Plan May Need To Be Tweaked: The SECURE Act Has Passed

Rania Combs discusses how the Setting Every Community Up for Retirement Enhancement Act (SECURE Act) may require changes to your estate plan.

FAQs About Powers of Attorney and Directives

Can Life Support Be Withheld If A Patient Has Not Signed A Directive To Physicians?

Most Americans have not executed basic estate planning documents. Studies show that more than half of Americans have not executed a basic will. Even fewer have executed…