The information in this column is not intended as legal advice but to provide a general understanding of the law. Any readers with a legal problem, including those whose questions are addressed here, should consult an attorney for advice on their particular circumstances. In previous columns, I explained the importance of having a Durable Power …
The information in this column is not intended as legal advice but to provide a general understanding of the law. Any readers with a legal problem, including those whose questions are addressed here, should consult an attorney for advice on their particular circumstance. Future changes in your circumstances could affect the efficacy of your Wills …
The information in this column is not intended as legal advice but to provide a general understanding of the law. Any readers with a legal problem, including those whose questions are addressed here, should consult an attorney for advice on their particular circumstances. Previously, I have written about the importance of having a Texas power …
What would you do if you found out someone filed a fraudulent deed with regards to your property? A deed filed by a minor or a person forging a signature of a deceased person purporting to convey the property. Such a fraudulent deed is a void deed, but that does not mean it has no …
I am often asked to review out of state or older trust, so this week I thought I would discuss what a trust is and a few of the basic types of trust. A trust is a legal instrument that transfers title to designated property from the owner, called the donor or grantor, to a …
I heard today on the radio that people who are perpetually late live longer. If that is the case, I’m going to live a long time. In fact, in study done in 2000 said there was a 75% probability for men living to the age of 78, 50% probability of living to 85 and a …
I see many clients who have created revocable trust, sold to them by someone promising tax and probate savings. However, the proper trust to achieve estate tax advantages is a lifetime Irrevocable Trusts. The assets in a Irrevocable Trust pass upon death free of estate tax. To achieve the estate tax advantages, the client needs …
A week or so ago, I read an obituary that reminded me that although the death of a loved one often brings families closer, it can often bring out animosities among family members that has long simmered. The unusual obituary started, “We are so grateful you have finally escaped the evil clutches of the greedy, …
While watching a law school classmate of mine handle a disputed estate in Fort Bend County, it occurred to me the best way to avoid a Will contest is to have a well written Will prepared by an attorney who can help you avoid potential conflicts. This week I will discuss reasons for contesting a …
You need an estate plan. This is true even if you don’t have a lot of assets. It’s also true if you’re young, or if you don’t have close family members. Estate planning means preparing for the inevitabilities of life. People get sick or hurt, and you need a plan in place to determine what …
Continue reading “Steps to Help Get Started on Estate Planning”
