According to Texas law, an executor must be at least 18 years old and have no prior felony conviction, meaning almost any adult can administer an estate. Still, if you end up overseeing the assets of a deceased loved one, you should determine if you have the skill to...
Year: 2023
Is a fiduciary and an executor the same thing?
When it comes to managing a person's affairs after their passing, it is important to distinguish between two significant roles: fiduciaries and executors. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Estate Planners & Councils, 63% of individuals do...
How to include your pet in your estate plan
As you begin to plan your estate, your focus may be on distributing assets, naming beneficiaries and specifying your final wishes. However, an important aspect that is often overlooked is the welfare of your pet. According to NBC News, approximately 500,000 cats and...
Why you should not wait to create a will
Gallup surveys show that as of 2021, less than half of Americans have a will. This statistic vividly illustrates how many people are subjecting their loved ones to potential legal complications and financial uncertainty in the event of their passing. While...
How can I get guardianship of my elderly parent with dementia?
When someone you care about receives a dementia diagnosis, it can be a challenging journey. That is especially so when it comes to making crucial decisions on their behalf. Depending on where you are in your journey, there are different ways to establish guardianship...
Open communication in blended family estate planning
In diverse Houston, blended families are common. These families often bring together individuals from previous marriages or relationships. This creates unique dynamics and financial considerations. Blended family estate planning can be complex due to the presence of...
What can make probate last longer?
When it comes to the probate process, several factors can extend the duration it takes to settle an estate. Probate, the legal process of distributing a deceased person's assets and handling their debts, is often already a complex and time-consuming affair....
Challenges in estate administration
Estate administration can be a complex and challenging process. For this reason, Texas law allows an executor to receive compensation up to 5% of the estate value. Still, despite fair pay for doing the job, managing the affairs of a deceased loved one involves...
4 ways to avoid a contested will
When it comes to ensuring that your wishes unfold the way you want after you pass away, taking steps to minimize the likelihood of a contested will is important. While no approach can guarantee absolute immunity from challenges, there are practical measures you can...
How does a family history of dementia impact estate planning?
When developing a plan for your assets and end-of-life wishes, having a family history of dementia adds another layer of consideration. Planning ahead can offer peace of mind and ensure your family honors your wishes while staying prepared for the potential of a...

