Over the past several weeks our first responders have been very busy, so they were on my mind. While the Game Preserve Fire has been bad, it would be much worse without your bravery and dedication, which is truly appreciated. We recognize that your job can come with a lot of uncertainties and dangers. You …
Continue reading “How First Responders Can Protect Their Loved Ones”
While the simplicity of a Will driven estate plan in Texas is most favored, some situations dictate using a trust instead. Navigating the different trust options in the pursuit of crafting an optimal estate plan can be overwhelming. If you are worried that things might go wrong, you can reach out to us and we …
Continue reading “Trust Options, What’s right for your needs?”
Unmarried couples don’t receive the same legal protections as married couples when it comes to inheritance and taxes. That’s why it’s crucial for unmarried couples to engage in financial and estate planning. Without proper planning, their partner may not receive anything if they pass away. Here are several reasons why you should consider a …
Many clients have asked me how to insure that a bank account or investment account passes to a particular person (spouse or child) without having to wait until a Will is probated. First, I would like to remind you that the amount of time its takes to probate an estate in Texas depends to a …
Continue reading “Joint Accounts with Right of Survivorship”
Don’t allow ongoing political and financial uncertainties to hold you back from providing tax-free gifts that can benefit your family. Despite the speculation surrounding these matters, you still have the opportunity to make tax-free annual exclusion, medical-payment, and educational gifts. By taking advantage of these gift options, you can support and contribute to the …
Occasionally, I am approached by someone who wants to convey property by an Assumption. An Assumption is a means by which a Buyer may assume or take over the mortgage of the Seller. The parties will exchange an Assumption Deed which provides the Buyer title to the property with the requirement to make the Seller’s …
A common nonprobate asset is an investment account with either a named beneficiary or designated to transfer on death. When you name beneficiaries for non-probate assets, it can have various implications for each person. The outcome may vary based on individual circumstances and goals. It is important to understand that there could be potential …
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 …
In past columns I have discussed the importance of having a Last Will and Testament. A Will is important because it allows you to direct the distribution of your assets and enables you to name a guardian for your children. However, a Will does not take effect until you are no longer alive. What if you have …
Continue reading “Help, I’ve Fallen and Can’t Get Up! Now What?”
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 …
