The Advantage of Strong Financial and Estate Planning Advisors

The Advantage of Strong Financial and Estate Planning Advisors

Financial abuse and fraud targeting older individuals cost anywhere from $2.6 billion to $36.5 billion annually, as estimated by the National Council on Aging.  This is a sad reflection of our society.   To protect yourself from financial exploitation, it is best to create a comprehensive estate and financial plan that will ensure your protection …

Do You Really Need an Estate Planning Attorney?

Do you really need an estate planning attorney

There is a widespread misconception that estate planning is simply a method of directing one’s assets to designated beneficiaries in the event of death. That’s simply too narrow of a view. Estate planning is necessary—crucial, in fact—in the event that you become incapacitated or otherwise need a loved one to manage your finances. This can …

Dying Without a Will

Dying without a will

Recently, I met with a client who had lost their spouse.  They owned a home together and had purchased the real estate 40 plus years ago. In order to sell the home, since the spouse passed without a Last Will and Testament, the surviving spouse could not sell the home.  They would have to resolve …

Probate in Texas

Probate in Texas

I recently corresponded with my good friend, Matt Crider, who practices law in California.  The system of probate in California is vastly different that here in Texas.  In California, transferring a person’s assets through a Will can take 2 years and the court sets the fee.   Probate is simply the administration of a deceased person’s …