Planning an estate in Texas involves making use of many available tools. Most commonly, people in our state use wills and trusts to make their wishes as to estate division known after their death. Using these types of estate planning tools, an individual can work to...
Year: 2012
Texas estate planning benefits from carefully planned will
The reasons that people in Texas might avoid the estate planning process are understandable. Fear of death, denial and lack of knowledge about the estate planning process are just a few of these reasons. However, at least one authority notes, there is never a bad time...
Texas heirs of estate planning may benefit from discussion
It is not only the person who seeks to create an estate plan in Texas who has expectations about the distribution of their assets after their death. In many instances, the potential heirs and beneficiaries also have expectations as to the possible inheritances in...
Probate litigation in Texas can include questioning executors
In Texas, and elsewhere, an executor of a will can be removed if they fail to comply with their fiduciary duties. When a beneficiary believes that the executor should be removed, they can seek that action by petitioning the court. Often, this is done during probate...
Texas families search for guardianship alternatives
As a person ages, it can be difficult for their family to determine what, if any, actions should be taken to assist them with their daily needs. This is especially true if an elderly person begins to show signs of dementia or other age-related diseases. Some in the...
Michael Jackson’s estate remains in estate administration
Many readers in Texas will recall that superstar singer Michael Jackson passed away in 2009, leaving three children behind. Though his death was three years ago, his assets are still being subjected to the estate administration process. This is due mostly to the fact...
Estate planning is not just for old, wealthy Texans
For many individuals who are either young or perhaps believe they do not have enough assets, drafting a will is not on the top of their priority list. However, despite the desire to delay such estate planning, it may be in many Texas residents' best interests to...
Have you considered gifting as part of your estate plan?
In our August 15 post, we told you about the difficulties that may come up during estate planning due to the estate tax changes. There may be hope for families who are planning to leave assets to heirs. Two examples have been provided to show how gifting during the...
Houston estate plans require periodic review as life changes
Estate planning for some in Houston is a task that is often completed and then forgotten about. On July 31 we talked about the importance of revising estate plans annually. To go a step further, some authorities note that there are many individual life changes...
Why Houston estate planning documents should be revised annually
Estate planning is a very important step for people to ensure that their wishes are understood in the unfortunate event of their death. Estate planning helps Houston residents prepare for the future and protect their assets and property. On April 18, in a post titled...