A will is a key estate planning document that instructs the court on managing your affairs after death. Unfortunately, the will is completely useless if you do not meet all the legal requirements and properly execute the document. Additionally, common mistakes can cause major issues, such as increased costs, legal disputes, and even accidental disinheritance. This blog explains what makes...
Continue ReadingSeveral factors can complicate the estate planning process. Owning properties in multiple states is one example. Moving to a new state or splitting time between states is another. It’s essential to consider these factors when creating or updating an estate plan. Generally, a state court only has authority over property within its borders. Therefore if an estate consists of...
Continue ReadingIt’s difficult to give an average cost of a will in Texas. Each law firm structures their fees differently and changes the amounts from time to time. Some attorneys offer a flat fee rate for a will, while others bill by the hour. How much a will costs in Texas depends on a variety of factors, such as: Let’s...
Continue ReadingIf you die without a will in Texas, state law creates one for you. The Texas laws of intestate succession determine who inherits property if there is no will and how much they get. Unfortunately, this may have unwanted consequences. In this blog, we briefly summarize the rules of inheriting property without a will in Texas. Who Inherits Property...
Continue ReadingThe executor of a will is often selected because your deceased loved one trusted them to settle their estate and carry out their wishes. But what if the executor does not probate the will? What happens to your loved one’s assets? Is there a time limit to probate a will? These are great questions. The answers—and more—will be discussed...
Continue ReadingEstate planning is crucial in securing your loved ones’s futures, especially drafting a will. While creating a will may appear to be a simple task, with the internet providing a variety of templates and DIY guides, tackling the legal complexities of will creation in Texas can be challenging. Working with a lawyer specializing in wills, such as the group...
Continue ReadingWhen a loved one dies, you may assume the long, arduous, and expensive probate process lies ahead. But that may not be the case, even if your loved one has a will. In general, probate is the legal process of gathering a deceased person’s assets and distributing them. A person’s will provides instructions on how to divvy up his...
Continue ReadingThe loss of a loved one is a difficult and trying experience. The legalities of probating a will, especially an international one, can add another layer of stress during this already emotional time. You are probably wondering, Does Texas recognize wills from other countries? Texas does recognize wills from other countries. However, a will from another country might have...
Continue ReadingWhen you make a will, you want your wishes to be carried out as you have specified. Before your family can receive any distributions from your estate, the probate court will make sure that your will is valid. If any of your family members disagree with the will presented to the probate court, they can challenge its validity. That’s...
Continue ReadingThe term “will” is commonly used in estate planning. However, a will can refer to a few different estate planning instruments. There are also different types of legal wills in Texas. So if you are wondering what types of wills are needed in Texas, read on to learn more. Last Will and Testament A last will and testament, more...
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