Resources

Will The State Get My Property If I Die Without A Will?

Everyone needs a Will. A Will allows you to dictate how your property will be distributed after you die. If you don’t have a Will, you lose…

Does Your Insurance Policy Name Your Ex-Spouse As a Beneficiary?

Suppose you have a life insurance policy issued as part of an employee benefit plan which identifies your spouse as your primary beneficiary and your adult daughter…

Five Reasons Why Parents of Young Children Need Estate Planning

If you are a parent of young children, getting your estate plans in order can help you ensure that your minor children will be protected in the…

If I Write My Own Will, Do I Need A Lawyer To File It For Me At The Courts?

The title of this post came from a question I received last week. It’s one of many questions I receive each week that show significant confusion about…

Who Can File An Application for Probate?

If an executor is named in a Will, then that person is generally the most logical person to file an application to probate the Will. The Texas Estates Code…

Can a Relative Notarize My Estate Planning Documents?

According to the Texas Secretary of State, there is no rule that specifically prohibits a notary from notarizing documents for a relative; however, notaries should refrain from notarizing…

Estate Planning For College Students

Eighteen years ago, as I strolled through Babies”R”Us with my newborn baby propped on my shoulder, a middle-aged woman walked up to me and said: “Enjoy…

Did the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act Preserve the Step-Up in Basis?

Under our country’s tax laws, it is the person making a gift (the donor) who is responsible for any gift tax that is due. The gift’s recipient…