A person who is named executor of an estate has an important and sometimes difficult job, especially when the estate is a large one. Administering the estate means that the executor must inventory the estate, file bills, maintain records, and then pay all debts and taxes on the estate, among other tasks. A large estate […]
Author: Philip Silberman
Corporate Dissolution in Texas
Just as there are good reasons and specific procedures for creating a corporation in Texas, there are good reasons and specific procedures for dissolving corporations as well. Whether it’s due to retirement, a falling out with business partners, or financial issues, corporate dissolution is sometimes the best option. However, failing to follow state requirements to […]
Determining Mineral Rights in Texas
When considering the value of property, most people focus on the surface, the house or land, but sometimes the greatest value of the land is in what lies beneath the surface, its minerals. Like houses and lots, minerals are labeled as real property in Texas and may be conveyed with the sale of the property. […]
Are Initials Enough to Sign a Will?
Dealing with the loss of a loved one is enough of a devastating experience without the added frustration of attempting to probate a nonstandard will. While a properly drafted will needs to meet several Texas legal requirements to be considered valid, a recent case has made clear that initials on a will are enough to […]
Special Needs Trusts in Texas
Writing a valid will is a gift for grief-stricken family members. Not only does estate planning communicate how assets are to be distributed and to whom, but it can also provide lasting support and protection in the form of trusts for loved ones. Particularly vulnerable is the individual with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who […]
Corporate Reorganization in Texas
When business owners create a corporation, they try to anticipate for future growth. Despite those efforts, however, the corporation may need to reorganize in order to increase profits, client base, efficiency, and/or funding. The goal of reorganizing is to lay a stronger foundation for future success. Generally, reorganization only happens when businesses encounter serious issues, […]
Buying Real Estate Remotely in Texas
The combination of a global pandemic and a wild real estate market in Texas have led to surprising changes in the process of buying and selling real estate. Because open houses and in-person home tours have not been as available recently, remote options have become more commonplace. In fact, many buyers and sellers are relying […]
Civil Conspiracy in Texas
Texas courts acknowledge that two or more people may conspire against another and, in the process, cause damage to that person. If someone can prove that he or she has suffered damages as a result of others’ collusion, that person may file a lawsuit on the basis of civil conspiracy. Elements of Civil Conspiracy In […]
Recent Changes to Eminent Domain in Texas
First defined in the Fifth Amendment of the United States Constitution, eminent domain means that the government has the right to confiscate private property for public use. The property owner should be justly compensated for the property but cannot easily prevent the seizure of that private property. The Supreme Court confirmed the validity of […]
Inheritance and Estate Taxes in Texas
Writing a will is helpful for family members at an emotionally challenging time. Choosing beneficiaries and designating their assets is a major focus of estate planning. However, one issue that sometimes catches beneficiaries by surprise is the unexpected costs associated with assets the beneficiary may receive. Particularly concerning is the potential for inheritance and estate […]