Resources

Does Every Estate Have To Pay An Estate Tax?

I often get calls and emails from Texans concerned about the amount of federal estate taxes that will be owed after their death. They worry that…

How To Talk To Your Family About Estate Planning

Even in very close families, discussions about estate planning are uncomfortable. It’s difficult to know the right time to bring up the subject, or even what to…

Will a Uniform Transfers to Minors Account Negatively Impact My Child With Special Needs?

Uniform Transfers to Minors Accouts (UTMA) accounts are an easy and inexpensive way for parents, grandparents and other well meaning individuals to make irrevocable gifts to minors…

Do I Need A Will If I Have A Power of Attorney?

A durable power of attorney allows you to choose a person you trust to handle your financial affairs if you become incapacitated and can’t handle them…

The First Step is the Hardest Part

Last Monday, I took the whole day off work. I turned off my computer after making just a couple of phone calls that couldn’t wait, and…

Is It Possible To Probate A Lost Will?

Probate is the legal process of proving the validity of a will. It is also commonly understood to refer to the legal process in which the estate of…

Is Real Property Purchased with an Inheritance during Marriage Separate or Community Property?

Texas is a community property state. Property is classified as community or separate property depending on when and how it was acquired. In Texas, all property…

Where Are Your Important Documents?

I got a call yesterday from a woman, who I’ll call Sue, whose mother suffered a stroke. Sue’s mom was only 67 years old. The stroke…