It’s a scenario that comes up more often than you might think: A couple gets divorced, and years later, one of them passes away without updating their will. In many cases, the will still names the former spouse as the primary beneficiary. So, what happens then? In Texas, the law has a built-in safeguard to […]
Category: Probate Law
Selling a Minor’s Property in Texas: Here’s What You Need to Know!
In Texas, minors cannot legally enter into contracts or sell real estate because they lack legal capacity. However, if a minor inherits or is gifted real estate, there may come a time when selling the property is necessary. Texas law provides a legal pathway for this process under Texas Estates Code § 1351.001. This article […]
Is a Trust the Best Move for Your Home? Pros and Cons Explained!
When it comes to estate planning, many people wonder whether they should put their home in a trust. While trusts can serve important purposes in some states, Texas homeowners typically don’t need one for their primary residence. In this article, we’ll break down why a trust may not be necessary for your home in Texas, […]
Truths About Revocable Trusts and The Living Trust Scam Explained
Estate planning is a critical part of securing your family’s future, but not all estate planning tools are created equal. One of the most widely promoted yet often unnecessary tools is the revocable trust, also known as a living trust. While these trusts are heavily marketed as a way to avoid probate and maintain privacy, […]
Power of Attorney Explained: What You Need to Know!
When it comes to planning for the future, granting someone a power of attorney is one of the most important legal tools you can use. In this blog post, we will break down what a power of attorney is, the different types available in Texas, and the crucial distinctions between immediate and springing powers of […]
How to Claim Unclaimed Property in Texas
Unclaimed property in Texas is often a forgotten treasure waiting to be reclaimed. Whether it’s a utility deposit, an overpayment, or even an inheritance, the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts holds billions of dollars for rightful owners. Follow these steps to check and claim unclaimed property, and learn the legal tools required for certain situations. […]
What Makes a Good Will Contest in Texas?
When it comes to challenging a will in Texas, not all disputes lead to successful outcomes. A valid will contest requires specific legal grounds and evidence. Below, we explore the primary reasons a will might be contested and the legal standards involved. Technical Defects in the Will One of the simplest ways to challenge a […]
What is Probate?
Probate is the legal process that occurs after someone passes away, involving the administration of their estate, whether they left behind a will or not. This process ensures the proper distribution of assets to heirs and payment of any debts. Here’s a closer look at what probate entails and when it might be necessary. What […]
What Happens if Multiple Wills Exist at the Time of Death in Texas?
When a person in Texas passes away and multiple wills are discovered, the legal process of determining which will is valid becomes crucial. In Texas, like in many other states, there are clear laws to handle such scenarios. Here’s how the process works: Validating the Most Recent Will In Texas, when there are multiple wills, […]
Why Using Online Will Services is Risky for Estate Planning
In the digital age, it’s tempting to use online services for everything, including legal documents like wills. However, when it comes to estate planning, using internet-based forms can lead to significant issues, especially for Texas residents. Here’s why professional legal assistance is essential for drafting a will. The Pitfalls of Generic Online Wills Many online […]