Resources

Can a Minor Child Witness a Medical Power of Attorney?

“My mom has a power of attorney that was witnessed by someone under 18,” she said. “Is it valid?” The Texas statutes specify that a medical power…

DIY Planning Can Be a Nightmare!

A couple of weeks ago, I received a phone call from a woman whose ex-boyfriend had died, naming her as the sole beneficiary and executor of his…

When Can a Financial Institution Reject a Durable Power of Attorney in Texas?

Effective September 1, 2017, a person to whom a durable power of attorney is presented must accept a durable power of attorney except unless: The person is…

Recent Changes to Durable Power of Attorney Statute

The legislature made several beneficial changes to the Durable Powers of Attorney statute that went into effect on September 1, 2017. Below are a few of the…

Is A Financial Institution Required To Accept A Durable Power Of Attorney?

Before September 1, 2017, financial institutions routinely rejected durable powers of attorney for a multitude of reasons. A colleague once told me that a bank rejected her client’s…

What are the Requirements of a Valid Durable Power of Attorney in Texas

A durable power of attorney is a document that will allow you, the principal, to appoint someone you trust (an agent) to engage in specified business, financial…

Planning for the Unexpected

I went on a trip last month without knowing where I was going. My husband wanted to plan a surprise vacation for the family to celebrate his 50th…

The Consequences of an Outright Distribution to a Spouse in Blended Families

Estate planning can be complicated in blended families. If you have children from a prior relationship, making an outright distribution of your estate to your spouse may…