Nearly everyone is familiar with the idea of a premarital agreement. Pre- and post-marital agreements are legal documents that dictate what should happen to a married couple's property and assets in the event of a divorce or death. While most people know about the...
Estate Planning
Did the pandemic inspire you to get an estate plan?
If so, you are not alone. But what is the first step? If you are interested in putting together an estate plan, you may feel overwhelmed. Do you write a will? What about a trust? What is the right choice for your family? The following will answer some common questions...
What business owners should know about estate planning
Owning your own business comes with a lot of responsibilities. You work hard to keep it running and make it a success. You have to make important decisions every day and keep relationships with your suppliers and customers strong. Yet, one thing you may overlook on...
A primer on probate: What is it and how does it work?
Probate is the legal process that uses the court systems to officially recognize a will. During this process, the court will appoint someone to help make sure the terms of the will are met. The court refers to this individual as the executor. The executor will then...
Guardianship requires the approval of the court
Having a parent face an Alzheimer's diagnosis can be difficult for any Texas resident. Though many people who receive an early diagnosis may be able to continue making their own decisions and living on their own for a time, eventual cognitive decline usually makes it...
Does a living trust make sense for your estate plan?
As you create or revise your estate plan, you will want to make sure your wealth remains intact once it passes on. You may have concerns, then, that putting your assets in a will could devalue your estate. While wills have their place and purpose – especially in...
Four reasons to update your estate plan immediately
Estate plans are important legal tools that help guide the distribution of your assets. These documents require a review and an occasional update. Common events that trigger the need to review an estate plan include a birth or death in the family, marriage or divorce,...
Can you use estate planning to protect assets from creditors?
An estate plan is beneficial for many reasons. For example, these plans can help you to transfer assets according to your wishes and provide an opportunity to review your estate. When you take the time to review your estate, you may realize that it is vulnerable to...
What happens to debt when someone dies?
Navigating a loved one’s financial affairs after they pass is a difficult process. In addition to the emotional toll, you must also determine how to handle contact from creditors expecting payment for the loved one’s debts. In some cases, creditors may begin to come...
Testamentary trusts can better ensure asset control
Questions about how to provide for irresponsible family members and minor children are common in estate planning. Rather than simply not leaving assets to those loved ones, you may want to consider your planning options. Fortunately, numerous estate planning tools can...