If you are creating or updating your estate plan, you may be considering whether a family member can act as a fiduciary. The answer is yes, but there are important factors to consider. The role of a fiduciary A fiduciary handles critical tasks, such as managing...
Imagine the stress and confusion if your will, trust or other estate plans no longer reflect your current financial situation or family dynamics. It can leave your loved ones in a difficult situation as they try to navigate outdated or impractical instructions,...
When managing finances, property, or other significant assets, it’s common to face the decision of whether to appoint a fiduciary. Many wonder if placing your assets in the hands of a fiduciary is a good idea or not. Understanding the responsibilities of a fiduciary...
When planning your estate, it's important to choose an executor who will manage your assets after you pass away. If the executor dies before finishing their job, there are steps to ensure your estate is still handled properly. Naming a successor executor If an...
Serving as an executor in Texas involves many responsibilities, including the management of estate taxes. Texas does not impose a state estate tax, making the process relatively simple. However, federal estate taxes can still apply depending on the value of the...
In Texas, probate handles the administration and distribution of a deceased person’s estate according to their will or, if no will exists, according to state law. Probate becomes especially complicated when multiple parties contest a will. Understanding how the...
What happens when you cannot locate someone’s will to submit it to the probate court for authentication? It’s frustrating when you can’t find the original documents, but you know that the will exists because you have a copy in your hands. The original may have gone...
Accepting fiduciary duties can seem like a straightforward responsibility, but it comes with significant risks that you need to understand. Acting as a fiduciary means being legally obligated to act in the best interest of another party. Before taking on this role,...
Estate planning is often misunderstood, leading many to delay or avoid it altogether. However, having a solid estate plan means you can feel confident your assets will be distributed based on your specifications and that your loved ones will be cared for after you’re...
When someone passes away in Texas, their assets usually go through a process called probate. This process helps to legally and fairly transfer the deceased's assets to their heirs or beneficiaries. If you're dealing with a loved one's estate, you might wonder about...
